Tillamook Forest Center Reopens for 20th Anniversary Season

The popular facility along Highway 6 between Tillamook and Gales Creek opens with a new exhibit and celebration planned.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Tillamook Forest Center in Oregon will reopen on March 4 for its 20th anniversary season. The center, operated by the Oregon Department of Forestry, features a replica fire lookout tower, an interpretive center, a bridge over the Wilson River, and a theater showcasing the history and natural wonders of the Tillamook State Forest. A special 20th anniversary celebration is planned for April 4, and a new exhibit highlighting the center's history will open on April 1.

Why it matters

The Tillamook Forest Center is a popular destination that connects visitors to the story of the Tillamook State Forest's resilience and advocates for the sustainable management of Oregon's public lands. The center's 20th anniversary is a milestone that celebrates two decades of environmental education and outdoor recreation.

The details

The Tillamook Forest Center will be open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. starting March 4. A new exhibit highlighting the center's 20-year history and the 75th anniversary of the nearby South Fork Forest Camp will open on April 1. The center has also received new lockers, a gift from the State Forests Trust of Oregon.

  • The Tillamook Forest Center will reopen on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
  • A special 20th anniversary celebration is planned for Saturday, April 4, 2026.
  • A new exhibit will open at the center on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.

The players

Oregon Department of Forestry

The state agency that operates the Tillamook Forest Center.

State Forests Trust of Oregon

The organization that provided new lockers as a gift to the Tillamook Forest Center.

Virginia Ohler

A representative of the State Forests Trust of Oregon who said that investing in the Tillamook Forest Center is investing in Oregon's future.

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What they’re saying

“Investing in the Tillamook Forest Center is investing in Oregon's future. When visitors connect with the forest's story of resilience, they become advocates for sustainable management of our state forest lands.”

— Virginia Ohler, Representative, State Forests Trust of Oregon (bankspost.com)

What’s next

Those interested in getting a sneak peek at the Tillamook Forest Center before it opens can join a Winter Cleaning Party on Saturday, February 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration is required in advance by contacting the center by February 25.

The takeaway

The Tillamook Forest Center's 20th anniversary celebration is a testament to its enduring role in connecting visitors to the natural wonders and resilient history of the Tillamook State Forest. As Oregon's public lands face ongoing challenges, the center's commitment to environmental education and advocacy for sustainable management remains crucial.