Fort Simcoe Historical State Park

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Fort Simcoe is one of the few remaining pre-Civil War forts in the west. Military history buffs should put it on their bucket lists. 

Located on the Yakama Indian Reservation, between rolling hills, small farms and tiny towns, the fort has a unique sense of remoteness - and a beauty that makes it worth the drive.

Once a Yakama Nation camping area, the rich, fertile region sparked discord between the tribes and Euro-American settlers, prompting the U.S Army to construct a fort there in 1856. Fort Simcoe's military history was short-lived, however. In 1859, the United States military fort was closed, and the site was turned over to the Bureau of Indian Affairs. It became the location of the Yakama Indian Agency, as well as home to an Indian boarding school for Yakama children for over 60 years (1860-1922). 

Wander past the elegant officers' homes, the tribal jail and restored barracks (check hours of operation below under Interpretive Opportunities for access to the interpretive center and a tour of the Commander's Quarters). Hike a small hill to the original blockhouse (defense lookout) and take in the golden valley below. Try to spot a Lewis's woodpecker, as Fort Simcoe Park is a haven for this bird of a different feather. 

Relax under a shade tree or have lunch in the picnic shelter near the playground. Keep an eye on your food, as bears have been known to enjoy the park, too.

Park features

Fort Simcoe Historical State Park is a 196-acre, day-use heritage site and is primarily a historic preservation effort. Due to its historic significance, Fort Simcoe was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in June 1974. Camping is available at Brooks Memorial and Yakima Sportsman state parks.

In 1956, Fort Simcoe was leased to Washington State Parks by the Yakama Nation on a 99-year lease for historic preservation.

Discover Pass: A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to state parks for day use. For more information about the Discover Pass and exemptions, please visit the Discover Pass web page.

  1. Activities
  2. History
  3. Maps

ADA amenities/facilities

  • Hiking trail

Use our interactive ADA recreation map to search for other state parks with ADA amenities and facilities. 

Picnic & day-use facilities
The park provides four sheltered and 45 unsheltered picnic tables. Restrooms, running water, and ample parking are available.Tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Activities

Trails

  • 0.8 miles of hiking trails

Other activities & features

  • Bird watching
  • Horseshoe pits (4)
  • House Museum (Commander's Quarters)
  • Interpretive Center
  • Wildlife viewing

Interpretive opportunities

The interpretive center and the Commander's Quarters are closed.Tours of these buildings must be made by appointment in advance. Call (509) 874-2372 or (509) 859-3016 for more information or to book a tour.

The entire park is of interpretive value. Five original buildings are still standing at the fort, the commander's house, three captain's houses, and a blockhouse. Various other buildings have been recreated to appear original. The Commander's Quarters is filled with period furnishings.

Additional information