About Fort Stevens State Park, Oregon, USA
Fort Stevens State Park is located in Oregon, North America. It was the primary military
defence installation in the three fort Harbour
Defence System at the mouth of the Columbia River. The fort served for 84 years, beginning with the Civil War and closing at the end of World War II. Today, Fort Stevens has grown into a 4,200 acre park offering exploration of history, nature, and recreational opportunities.
Fort Stevens is recommended for beginner to advanced riders. The water and air temperatures are cold and a wetsuit is recommended for summer and a dry suit,
hoody and booties in winter.
Fort Stevens State Park has various kiting spots:
- Peter Iredale Shipwreck Beach
This spot if recommended for beginner to advanced riders. It has some awesome swell with waves ranging from 1 – 3m in height depending on the wind speed and tide. The water can be cloudy at times. The beach is large and sandy and is about 20km long; there is ample space to rig up your gear. The best kiting months are from May to September on a NW wind direction with an average of 10knots. A bit further north of Shipwreck is a good
launch spot for a down-winder to Sunset Beach. Do not ride north of the jetty due to very strong currents which are dangerous.
This spot is recommended for intermediate to advanced riders. The waves are small but can get up to 3m in height on an easterly swell, also depending on the wind speed, tides and currents. Be careful of the driftwood on the beach. There are toilets and parking available here. The best kiting months are from May to September on a NW wind direction with an average of 10knots.
- Fort Stevens Riverside/The Pond
This spot is recommended for beginners to advanced riders. The water is super flat and can get cloudy at times. Be careful of the ships, boats and strong currents the further you go out. The size of the beach is smaller than at the other spots but still has enough space to rig up your gear and for launching and landing. The best kiting months are from May to September on a NW wind direction with an average of 10knots; it can work on an Easterly as well.
Traveling to Fort Stevens State Park, Oregon, USA
The nearest town to Fort Stevens State Park is Astoria and the nearest city, Portland.
Facilities At Fort Stevens State Park, Oregon, USA
Fort Stevens State Park has a
camp site, picnic areas, restrooms, and a stand that sells food. Other than
kitesurfing, Fort Stevens is also a popular site for
fresh water lake fishing, swimming, hiking, boating, canoeing and nature viewing. Check out the historic Peter Iredale Shipwreck and the site of the still standing military fort. There are 14km bicycle trails and 9km’s of hiking trails which allow you to explore the park through forests, wetlands and dunes.
During the summer, tour a rare 90-year old underground gun battery that served as a World War II command
centre, and take a truck tour of the fortifications spanning the Spanish-American War and World War II.
Stay at the Officer's Inn Bed & Breakfast;
www.officersinn.com and dine at the Buoy 9 Restaurant & Lounge.
