Fort Hoskins Historic Park

Fort Hoskins Historic Park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is located in the Luckiamute River Valley in the foothills of the beautiful Coast Range. This 130-acre park is a great place to explore an interesting part of Oregon’s history and to enjoy some wonderful views.

Established in 1856, the military fort was one of three built to monitor the Siletz Indian Reservation along the coast. The fort was never involved in any battles, and it was decommissioned in 1865. The Frantz family purchased the fort property and turned it into a working farm, and their house still stands on the east side of the park. As you travel along the 0.6-mile gravel loop, interpretive signs tell the stories of the fort and the people that lived in the area, from the Native Americas who burned the land to grow food such as camas to the soldiers who captured "slow bears" (pigs from local farms) to help supplement their diets. You'll also read of the families and community that lived and worked in the area with the challenges of remote living. Each sign and story gives you a glimpse into the rich history of the area.

The park is open daily and includes restrooms, picnic tables, interpretive signs, and a group picnic shelter that can accommodate up to 100 people. The shelter is available for rent through the Benton County Oregon Natural Areas and Parks Department. Plans to restore the Frantz-Dunn House and other structures are in place, but implementation depends on funding.