Cottonwood Beach takes its name from the majestic cottonwood trees that line the Columbia River shoreline at this historic location, where Lewis and Clark established Provision Camp for six days in March 1806 during their return journey from the Pacific Ocean. This represents the longest period the Corps of Discovery camped at any single site in Clark County, making it one of the most historically significant Lewis and Clark locations in Washington state. Now preserved as Captain William Clark Regional Park at Cottonwood Beach, this 93-acre day-use park sits approximately three miles from the mouth of the Washougal River along the Columbia River's Washington shore. The park commemorates the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark expedition with interpretive exhibits explaining how the Corps learned from native tribes that food was scarce eastward, prompting them to remain at this provisioning site from March 31 to April 6, 1806. From this campsite, William Clark also led a group back down the Columbia River to discover the Willamette River, which they had missed on both outward and return voyages. The beach and park provide rare opportunities to walk along the Columbia River in close proximity to an actual Lewis and Clark campsite, with the Lewis and Clark Discovery Greenway Trail connecting visitors to this momentous chapter of American exploration history.
Walking the Lewis and Clark Discovery Greenway Trail allows visitors to experience Columbia River shoreline near the actual Corps of Discovery campsite, with interpretive signs providing historical context about the expedition's six-day stay. The accessible multiuse trails wind through 93 acres of forested land, suitable for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. Fishing from the Columbia River shoreline attracts anglers pursuing salmon during migration runs, sturgeon, walleye, bass, and other species that inhabit these productive waters. The beach area provides space for picnicking with shelters available for group gatherings and family outings with Columbia River views. Bird watching rewards observers with sightings of bald eagles, osprey, great blue herons, various duck species, and other waterfowl that frequent the river corridor. Restroom facilities serve park visitors throughout the day. Historical interpretation enhances visits, with exhibits explaining Lewis and Clark's interactions with local tribes, their provisioning strategies, and the significance of discovering the Willamette River from this location. The beach offers swimming and wading opportunities during summer months when Columbia River water temperatures warm, though currents require caution and no lifeguards are present. Beachcombing reveals river stones, driftwood, and materials deposited by Columbia River flows and seasonal fluctuations. Photography captures historical significance, river views, forest scenery, and interpretive elements. The park serves educational purposes for schools and Lewis and Clark Trail enthusiasts tracing the expedition's route. Launch facilities accommodate non-motorized boats for kayaking and canoeing on the Columbia River, allowing paddlers to explore from this historic location.
Washougal offers diverse dining options just minutes from Cottonwood Beach. The Puffin Cafe serves Caribbean-inspired cuisine in a family-owned atmosphere since 2002, featuring beer-battered fish and chips with crispy cod, fresh garden salads with house dressings, Key Lime pie with graham cracker crust, Jamaican Jerk Burger with spicy seasonings, Cuban Sandwich with roasted pork and pickles, Jerk Chicken with island spices, Shrimp Tacos with tropical salsa, and Fish Tacos with cabbage slaw. Washougal Times Restaurant and Lounge delivers classic American fare including fried oysters with tartar sauce, parmesan wings with ranch dipping sauce, build-your-own burgers with multiple toppings, ribeye steaks grilled to order, creamy mashed potatoes, fresh asparagus, and salmon sandwiches with lettuce and tomato. Takumi-ko Japanese Cuisine features authentic Japanese preparations with fresh nigiri and sashimi selections including salmon, tuna, and escolar, classic rolls like California Roll with crab and avocado, Yellowtail Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll with sriracha, and Unagi Roll with eel and cucumber. Danglicious Vietnamese Kitchen serves Vietnamese specialties including Chicken Noodle Soup with herbs, traditional Pho with beef and rice noodles, Vermicelli Noodle bowls with grilled meats, and Vietnamese Sandwiches on crusty baguettes with pickled vegetables. Kascadia Brewery and Public House combines craft beer brewed on-site with gastropub fare including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers in a casual brewpub atmosphere perfect for post-trail meals.
