plan a visit

While we’re not too far from town, the Center is in a remote forested setting (remember, there's no cell service in many parts of the forest!). As you plan your visit, consider the weather, good shoes, appropriate clothing, travel times, and directions.

Dogs on leash are welcome on the outside grounds, and trained service animals are welcome inside the building.

Your Coast Range Retreat

Plan A Visit | Directions | Accessibility & Accommodations | Trails & Nearby Attractions | Safety

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Weather and Travel

There's fun to be had in all weather at the Tillamook Forest Center! If it is rainy outside, explore the forest through the many interactive exhibits, and grab an umbrella to appreciate the rain drops which make this forest lush and green. If it’s a hot summer day, find a shady spot or dangle your feet in the cool Wilson River.

Make sure you check the local weather and road conditions while planning your visit. The forest has its own microclimate, and the weather is often different from nearby areas.

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What to Bring and Wear

Just passing by on the way to the beach or the city? No worries, you’ll be fine here in your street shoes or your sandals. There’s plenty to see and do in the Center and on the immediate surrounding trails and overlooks without any strenuous activity or special terrain. If you’re planning to explore the trails a bit, we’d suggest good sturdy shoes or boots.

Make sure you check the weather, and bring other appropriate clothing as needed. No matter what the season, it's good advice to bring a water bottle and some snacks, as well as personal safety items.

Suggested Outdoor Gear:

Hat
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Insect repellant
A raincoat and warm layers
Binoculars
Guide books, map, compass, and/or GPS
First aid kit

Picnic and Gathering Areas

The Tillamook Forest Center site offers excellent picnic and gathering spots for groups of all sizes. For small family or group picnics, there are multiple large picnic tables in a shaded, forested area near the parking lot. You'll also find many more rustic benches around the site, perfect for resting, enjoying a meal, or reading a book.

For a scenic lunch spot, try the Wilson River Suspension Bridge, which has tables and chairs just outside the north doors. Across the bridge and upstream, the Jones Creek Day Use Area provides even more picnic tables.

The entry plaza and seating areas around the pond are great for smaller groups and individuals.

For larger groups (over 20 people), we recommend the Smith Homestead Day Use Area, less than half a mile east of the Center. It features a 2,000 square foot shelter ideal for group gatherings, family picnics, and events, available for daily rental.

Please note, all these areas are first-come, first-served. We also kindly ask that you do not bring food or drink into the exhibit gallery.

Special Events and Group Visits

There is a lot to see and do at the Tillamook Forest Center, and we have special events, programs, and group visit options for all ages!

Special Events

While the theater, exhibits, lookout tower and suspension bridge are going to give you something to remember about the Tillamook Forest Center, our programs and special events are going to give you a reason to come back. Join us for interactive programs that explore topics like forest management, wildlife, and the rich cultural history of the Tillamook Forest.

Youth/School Groups

With a hands-on, student-centric approach to forest learning that is directly tied to Oregon’s state curriculum and benchmark standards, the Tillamook Forest Center’s education programs are highly regarded and in demand. We provide quality guided learning opportunities for schools, scouts, and youth groups, with both pre-site and post-site activities included for trip leaders.

Adult/Tour Groups

The Tillamook Forest Center also offers adult group visits by request. The maximum number of people permitted in a group is 60 at a time, and groups larger than 25 will be asked to split into smaller groups before entering the facility. Larger groups can be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Special Events & Programs ↟

Youth/School Group Visits ↟

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What to Do

Inside the Center, engage with hands-on exhibits that explore the past, present, and future of the Tillamook State Forest through artifacts, personal stories, photos, film, games, hands-on models, computer simulations, interpreter-led programs, and other innovative media. Don't miss the award-winning film "Legacy of Fire," which provides a powerful, sensory journey through the history of the Tillamook Burn.

Outdoors, the forest comes alive as you explore themed interpretive trails, salmon watching viewpoints, the Wilson River, a 40-foot tall fire lookout tower with a stunning view of the forest canopy, and a 250-foot suspension bridge over the Wilson River. Bring a picnic, go for a hike, and find yourself in the forest.

For additional fun for all ages, be sure to check out the special events and programs calendar!

Programs & Events ↟

Nearby Trail Guide ↟