The Tillamook Forest Center was an incredible place for a homeschool family field trip. The nature center is full of hands-on exhibits and information on the history of the forest, forest fires, logging, restoration, climate, human impact, and the plants and animals that live in the forest. The boys picked one of the curriculum packets provided by the center and loved the combination of scavenger hunt, questions, drawings and games. There is also a fire lookout tower to climb, a suspension bridge to cross, trails to hike and a river to play in. We love places like this that have a combination of indoor and outdoor spaces to explore— makes them a great place to visit in all types of weather. Admission is free, donations greatly appreciated.
Writing Prompts
How has this forest changed over the last 100 years?
Explain both the positive and negative impacts of wildfires on our forests. How have humans changed wildfires?
What are some of the animals that live in the forest habitat of western Oregon? What makes the forest a good place for them to live?