Things to do in Saint Helens
Columbia County Historical Society Museum
A small museum documenting the past history of Saint Helens and Columbia County Call (503) 397-3868 for more information.
Saint Helens Olde Towne
Established in 1844 and incorporated in 1889, the Olde Towne portion of St. Helens, near the riverfront, features a Nationally Registered Historic District encompassing 10 blocks, which includes residences and civic buildings dating back nearly a century. The County Courthouse was built in 1906 out of basalt rock, a major industry of the area in the early 1900’s. Additional historic interests in the area include the Watts House in Scappoose and the Caples House in nearby Columbia City and the renovated Train Depot in St. Helens, which houses the Chamber of Commerce and the Historical Society of Columbia County. A walking map of historical buildings in St. Helens can be picked up at the Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center, as well as other brochures and information about the area. Call (503) 397-0685 for more information.
Sauvie Island
Explore Sauvie Island and walk on the same land as Meriwether Lewis & William Clark during their journey to discover the Pacific Ocean. Or stand on Sand Island and look out over the Columbia River at the same sites recorded in Lewis & Clark’s journals. You’ll find the same plant life that they identified those many years ago or catch a glimpse of the wildlife, including eagles, beaver & deer. Call (503) 397-0685 for more information.
Scappoose Bay
Located between St. Helens and Scappoose is a popular spot for kayaking or bird watching. Rent a kayak at Scappoose Bay Kayaking, and receive all the help and training necessary to make your experience totally wonderful and unforgettable. Call (503) 397-2161 for more information.
Warrior Rock Light
Warrior Rock Lighthouse, built in 1889, was originally a small two story structure atop a sandstone foundation. The single room first floor served as the keeper's quarters. The second floor was primarily a covered half deck housing the lens lantern and fog bell. Eventually, a house and barn were added to the property. The bell has the distinction of being the oldest fog bell in the Pacific Northwest. Cast in Philadelphia in 1855, the bell was first used at Cape Disappointment at the mouth of the Columbia River. Call (503) 397-0685 for more information.