A favorite of many artists and photographers, Fort Canby State Park is one of the most popular recreation destinations in Washington state.

History and natural beauty intertwine at Fort Canby State Park, one of the state’s top parks.

An active military installation until 1957, Fort Canby in 1875 was named after Gen. Edward Richard Spring Canby, who was killed during the Modoc Indian Wars.

Many of the huge bunkers and batteries that guarded the Columbia River’s mouth during the fort’s heyday remain.

The site was turned over to Washington state upon its retirement from military use.

The park now contains more than 2,000 acres of land in an area stretching from just north of North Head at Beard’s Hollow to Cape Disappoint-ment, the southernmost point in the state.

Whether fishing, hiking, beachcombing or just plain lounging suit your tastes, Fort Canby can fit the bill.

The forest and headlands of the park can be explored along six trails of varying length. Park personnel usually conduct nature walks along some of those trails during summer months.

Its popularity means that campers should call as soon as possible to reserve camping sites in Fort Canby. Particularly on major holiday weekends, the park is booked up months in advance.

Directions: Drive west on North Head or Fort Canby roads from the Ilwaco traffic light at the U.S. 101 intersection.

Hours: 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m., April 1-Sept. 30; dawn to dusk during the off-season.

Facilities: 250 campsites (some with water, sewer and electrical hookups), plus 13 yurts and three cabins. Restrooms have hot showers. Boat launch has two ramps. Fifty picnic sites. Ten-day limit in force during summer season; 20 days during non-summer months.

Reservations: Phone (360) 642-3078 or 1-888-Camp-Out. Address: Fort Canby State Park, P.O. Box 488, Ilwaco, WA 98624.