Sacajawea

On May 14, 1804, the Lewis and Clark Expedition left Camp Dubois (Illinois) and headed west into half a continent of land largely unmapped and unknown to people of the United States and Europe. As the Corps of Discovery set out, no one realized the journey ahead would cover more than 7,500 miles and last almost two and half years.

On Oct. 16, 1805, the expedition arrived at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia rivers, the site of today’s Sacajawea State Park. They camped here for two nights, hunting, repairing equipment, and meeting some 200 Sahaptin-speaking Indians in the area.

The Sacajawea State Park and Interpretive Center features the Lewis and Clark Room which tells the remarkable story of these early explorers. The exhibits highlight their activities at this site and the role of their interpreter, Sacagawea.

Pronunciation of the name

Recent scholarly research and extensive study of the original journals indicate that both the preferred spelling and pronunciation of the Shoshoni woman’s name are with a "g." Because the park has been known as Sacajawea for many decades, the "j" spelling is retained. Elsewhere in brochures, exhibits, and programs, the "g" is used - Sacagawea.

This young woman’s role was not that of the guide of legend, but that of a hardworking member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Sacagawea was a food-gatherer, interpreter, and along the Snake and Columbia rivers, a symbol of peace and friendship between the expedition and the Native Americans.

Admission

Admission into the center is free, but a $2 donation is suggested.

Hours

• 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wed. - Sun.
• Monday-Tuesday by advance appointment. 

Sacajawea State Park

Sacajawea State Park is a 267-acre marine / day-use park at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia rivers. It features 9,100 feet of freshwater shoreline. The area is spread out with a big sky and excellent views of the two rivers as they flow together.