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Lewis and Clark State Historic Site: Where the Journey Began

Discover where the Lewis and Clark Expedition began: Explore the history and legacy of Camp River Dubois in Hartford, Illinois.

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Explore the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site in Hartford, Illinois, the winter encampment of the Corps of Discovery from 1803 to 1804. Visit the Interpretive Center, a replica of Camp River Dubois, and the confluence viewing area to learn about the expedition's preparations and early days.

A brief summary to Lewis and Clark (Camp River Dubois) State Historic Site

Local tips

  • Visit during special events for reenactments and demonstrations that bring the history of Camp River Dubois to life.
  • Explore the Interpretive Center to see the full-scale keelboat replica and learn about the preparations for the expedition.
  • Take advantage of the free parking and access to bike trails for a scenic visit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown St. Louis, take I-55 North to I-255. Continue on I-255 North for about 7 miles to the New Poag Road exit. Take a left (west) off the New Poag Rd exit and travel about 3 miles to the intersection with Route 3. The road ends at the entrance to the site. There is no parking fee.

  • Public Transport

    Take a Greyhound or Megabus service to St. Louis, MO. From St. Louis, take a local bus (MetroBus Route 2) to reach the Alton area. From Alton, use a taxi or rideshare service (Uber or Lyft) to get to Lewis and Clark (Camp River Dubois) State Historic Site. Taxi fare ranges from $15 to $30.

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Discover more about Lewis and Clark (Camp River Dubois) State Historic Site

The Lewis and Clark State Historic Site in Hartford, Illinois, marks the starting point of the legendary Lewis and Clark Expedition. Known as Camp River Dubois, this is where Meriwether Lewis, William Clark, and their corps spent the winter of 1803-1804 preparing for their journey across North America. The site features a 14,000-square-foot Interpretive Center with six galleries outlining the expedition's history, from its conception to its impact on modern America. A highlight is the full-scale replica of the keelboat used by the Corps of Discovery, with one side cut away to reveal how it was loaded with provisions. The center also includes a theater that shows a 12-minute video about Camp River Dubois. Outside, visitors can explore a reconstruction of Camp River Dubois, built according to 1803 U.S. Army regulations and William Clark's field notes. The camp includes bunkhouses and a central cabin. A confluence viewing area offers views of the meeting of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. The site also provides access to the Confluence Bike Trail and is part of the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Route.

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