Champoeg State Park: Where Oregon Began

4 hours · Historic, outdoors, family

At Champoeg State Park, 40 minutes south of Portland, a small vote in 1843 created the first American government in the Pacific Northwest. Explore the heritage area, walk riverside trails, and visit the 19th-century store at Butteville.

Map & Directions

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The Itinerary

Champoeg State Heritage Area

⏱ 1.5 hr 📍 8239 Champoeg Rd NE, St Paul, OR

Visitor center and the story of Oregon's provisional government

Riverside Trail & Willamette River

⏱ 1 hr 📍 Champoeg Rd NE, St Paul, OR

Easy riverside walking and birdwatching

Butteville Store (est. 1863)

⏱ 30 min 📍 18983 Fern Hill Rd, Butteville, OR

Oregon's oldest continuously operating store

St. Paul (historic mission town)

⏱ 45 min 📍 St Paul, OR

Wine tasting and farm stores in the historic town

Tips

  • The park charges a small day-use fee — bring cash
  • Great spring wildflower displays along the river trail
  • Pack a picnic; tables and grills are plentiful

Best For

History buffs and easy-hikers