Have you ever heard of Lewis and Clark? Chances are you’ve at least heard their names, but many people wonder if America’s most famous explorers are still part of school history lessons today. The truth is, yes—though the way their story is told may have shifted, their epic journey across the uncharted West remains a cornerstone of American history. Their expedition wasn’t just about mapping rivers and mountains; it was about shaping the very identity of a growing nation. Today, their trail lives on through museums, monuments, scenic byways, and campgrounds that let travelers retrace their steps. If you’ve ever dreamed of combining history with adventure, following the Lewis and Clark route is one of the most rewarding road trips in the United States.
Do Schools Still Teach Lewis and Clark?
While curriculum standards vary from state to state, Lewis and Clark remain a significant part of U.S. history education. Many classrooms still dive into their expedition when covering westward expansion, early exploration, and the Louisiana Purchase. According to recent education surveys, over 70% of U.S. history courses in grades 4–8 still highlight the Corps of Discovery. Teachers often weave in themes of geography, Native American history, and cultural encounters to make the story more than just dates and maps.
For many students, the journey isn’t just about memorizing facts—it’s about understanding the courage, cooperation, and cultural exchange that defined early America. And for travelers today, those same lessons can be experienced first-hand at historic landmarks along the trail.
Landmarks Along the Lewis and Clark Route
Stretching nearly 4,900 miles from St. Louis, Missouri, to the Pacific Coast in Oregon, the Lewis and Clark Trail is now recognized as a National Historic Trail. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking landscapes and interactive stops that bring history to life.
- Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri – Symbolizing the start of America’s westward expansion, this is where Lewis and Clark began their adventure.
- Fort Mandan, North Dakota – A reconstructed winter camp where the explorers lived with help from local tribes.
- Great Falls, Montana – A dramatic series of waterfalls that nearly ended the expedition, but today is a stunning outdoor attraction.
- Fort Clatsop, Oregon – The site of the Corps’ final camp before returning east, now a living history site with trails and ranger-led programs.
Each of these stops offers more than just a glimpse into history—they provide opportunities for hiking, photography, and family exploration.
Are There Campgrounds Along the Way?
Absolutely. The Lewis and Clark Trail is dotted with campgrounds, from riverside tent sites to full-service RV parks. Missouri River campgrounds in South Dakota, state parks in Montana, and coastal campgrounds in Oregon give travelers a chance to immerse themselves in the landscapes the explorers once navigated. Many sites even host interpretive programs, letting you learn around a campfire the same way the Corps of Discovery once did.
What Is There to Do While Traveling the Trail?
Traveling the Lewis and Clark route isn’t just about reading plaques—it’s about experiencing the land. You can kayak the Missouri River, hike through Montana’s rugged mountains, or stand on the Oregon coast where the expedition ended. Museums along the way, like the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Nebraska City and the Columbia River Maritime Museum in Oregon, offer immersive exhibits that appeal to kids and adults alike. Wildlife viewing, photography, and stargazing also make this route one of the most diverse and engaging road trips in America.
Where Should You Eat Along the Way?
Part of the joy of retracing the Lewis and Clark Trail is discovering local flavors. In St. Louis, you can grab toasted ravioli before setting out. Montana offers hearty cowboy steaks and craft breweries that celebrate the rugged West. Along the Columbia River in Oregon, fresh-caught salmon and clam chowder connect you directly to the waters Lewis and Clark once charted. Every stop along the route provides not just nourishment but a cultural snapshot of how communities grew along this historic path.
Final Thoughts
Lewis and Clark’s expedition may have happened over 200 years ago, but its story continues to inspire. Whether in classrooms or along the scenic byways that follow their trail, the journey is a reminder of resilience, discovery, and the power of exploration. If you’ve ever longed for a road trip that blends history with adventure, the Lewis and Clark Trail offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to follow in the footsteps of America’s greatest explorers. Pack your curiosity, bring your sense of adventure, and discover a route where history and modern travel beautifully collide.
Happy travels,
The Cooper Shortcut Camping Journey Trio
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