Tillamook Forest Center

The Tillamook Forest Center is an interesting and entertaining rarity among state parks. It has a true sense of fun, starting with entrance signs that you would expect when approaching an amusement park. Its creators have done a great job of educating people of all ages with interactive exhibits, intriguing uses of unusual facts to hold readers’ attention, an approachable sense of history, and an integration of place within the forest and river around it.

When first approaching the center, visitors can climb the stairs of a full replica fire lookout station. The cabin on top includes example items that would have been used by spotters, historical photographs, and fun views within the Tillamook State Forest and the rest of the facilities.

The main center building itself is an architectural gem that merges modern architecture with forest sensibilities, and the displays were created by a top notch team. The center teaches in an entertaining way about trees, the biological systems they support, loggers, history, and people in the area. Short scheduled classes are great for kids, too.

On the other side of the center, doors open wide to a full suspension bridge that crosses the Wilson River, with many miles of hiking trails beyond. Camping and other amenities are also available.

The Tillamook Forest Center is a pleasant surprise for what a government agency can do to fulfill its mission in a fun way for everyone.