Veterans Memorial Park (West Point, Kentucky) - Lewis and Clark Trail Experience

Information

Open daily from dusk until dawn

502-922-4260

Well behaved pets on leash are welcome. Cleanup appreciated.

lat: 38.0006774 long: -85.9484482

Located on the Ohio River, Veterans Memorial Park in Historic City of West Point, Kentucky affords visitors the opportunity to visit the Ohio River stretch traveled by Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery on October 27, 1803. Joseph and Reuben Field (brothers) and John Shields—all privates—were from the West Point area. The park also is home to a wonderful picnic and playground for any simple family fun and relaxation. The gorgeous white pavilion also has a beautiful view of the river and is available for groups by calling the number listed on this page. The memorial park is also situated right next to the West Point City Hall and is also extremely close to both the Fort Duffield Park and Historic Site and the Kulmer Beach Reserve.

Veteran's Memorial Park on the Ohio River

Veteran's Memorial Park on the Ohio River

Pavillion at Veteran's Memorial Par

Pavillion at Veteran's Memorial Par

Great Flood of 1937 at West Point, Kentucky

Great Flood of 1937 at West Point, Kentucky

Flood markers at Veteran's Memorial Park, West Point, Kentucky

Flood markers at Veteran's Memorial Park, West Point, Kentucky

Lewis and Clark at West Point, Kentucky

Lewis and Clark at West Point, Kentucky

Kentucky Highway Marker for John Shields

Kentucky Highway Marker for John Shields

The Discovery Expedition of St. Charles, Missouri reenactors stopped at City of West Point, Kentucky.

The Discovery Expedition of St. Charles, Missouri reenactors stopped at City of West Point, Kentucky.

The Discovery Expedition of St. Charles, Missouri reenactors in red pirogue at City of West Point, Kentucky at Veteran's Memorial Park

The Discovery Expedition of St. Charles, Missouri reenactors in red pirogue at City of West Point, Kentucky at Veteran's Memorial Park

Nearby Attractions

Civil War U.S. Fort Duffield Park and Historic Site

Civil War U.S. Fort Duffield Park and Historic Site

Fort Duffield Park & Historic Site, West Point, KY, U.S.
Distance: 0.68 mi (straight line)

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Outdoor Experiences Forts

Kulmer Beach Reserve

Kulmer Beach Reserve

Kulmer Beach Reserve, Kulmer Beach Road, West Point, KY, USA
Distance: 1.08 mi (straight line)

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Outdoor Experiences Walks and Hikes

Tioga Falls Hiking Trail

Tioga Falls Hiking Trail

Tioga Falls Trail, Louisville Nashville Turnpike, West Point, KY, USA
Distance: 2.30 mi (straight line)

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Jefferson County Memorial Forest

Jefferson County Memorial Forest

Jefferson County Memorial Forest, Louisville, KY, USA
Distance: 8.89 mi (straight line)

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Buttermilk Falls Hiking and Biking Trail

Buttermilk Falls Hiking and Biking Trail

214 River Road, Brandenburg, KY, USA
Distance: 11.82 mi (straight line)

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Outdoor Experiences Walks and Hikes

Brandenburg Riverfront Park

Brandenburg Riverfront Park

River Front Park, Water Street, Brandenburg, KY, USA
Distance: 11.87 mi (straight line)

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RV and Camping Walks and Hikes Outdoor Experiences

Jailhouse Pizza

Jailhouse Pizza

Jailhouse Pizza, Main Street, Brandenburg, KY, USA
Distance: 11.98 mi (straight line)

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Food and Drinks

Historic Downtown Brandenburg

Historic Downtown Brandenburg

79 Broadway Street, Brandenburg, KY 40108, USA
Distance: 12.14 mi (straight line)

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Cultural Districts

The Olin Guest House

The Olin Guest House

The Olin Guest House, Lawrence Street, Brandenburg, KY, USA
Distance: 12.39 mi (straight line)

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Food and Drinks Lodging

The Little Loomhouse

The Little Loomhouse

The Little Loomhouse, Kenwood Hill Road, Louisville, KY, USA
Distance: 14.55 mi (straight line)

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Guided Tours Galleries and Venues

Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs, Central Avenue, Louisville, KY, USA
Distance: 16.98 mi (straight line)

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Guided Tours Other

Kentucky Derby Museum

Kentucky Derby Museum

Kentucky Derby Museum, Central Avenue, Louisville, KY, USA
Distance: 17.12 mi (straight line)

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Museums and Interpretive Centers

The Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

The Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

Conrad-Caldwell House Museum, Saint James Court, Louisville, KY, USA
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Guided Tours Museums and Interpretive Centers

Shawnee Park (Louisville)

Shawnee Park (Louisville)

Shawnee Park, West Broadway, Louisville, KY, USA
Distance: 18.73 mi (straight line)

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Outdoor Experiences Walks and Hikes Viewpoints

Filson Historical Society

Filson Historical Society

Filson Historical Society, South 3rd Street, Louisville, KY, USA
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LC Features Museums and Interpretive Centers

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Mulberry Hill

George Rogers Clark Park, Thruston Avenue, Louisville, KY, USA
Distance: 19.06 mi (straight line)

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LC Features Outdoor Experiences

Monnik Beer Co.

Monnik Beer Co.

Monnik Beer Company, East Burnett Avenue, Louisville, KY, USA
Distance: 19.10 mi (straight line)

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Food and Drinks

Louisville Mega Cavern

Louisville Mega Cavern

Louisville Mega Cavern, Taylor Avenue, Louisville, KY, USA
Distance: 19.20 mi (straight line)

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LCTE Travel Newsletter

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Discover History at the Nez Perce National Histori

Discover History at the Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center!

The Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center in Idaho offers a deep look into the history and culture of the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) people, who played a crucial role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition. In 1805, after a grueling journey through the Bitterroot Mountains, the Corps of Discovery arrived in Nez Perce territory, starving and exhausted. The Nez Perce provided food, shelter, and guidance, helping Lewis and Clark continue their journey westward.

Back then, the area was home to vast prairies, towering pine forests, and winding rivers—landscapes that remain largely unchanged today. The visitor center, set against this breathtaking scenery, offers exhibits, artifacts, and stories that highlight the Nez Perce’s enduring legacy.

Fun fact: The Nez Perce not only aided Lewis and Clark but also introduced them to their expertly crafted Appaloosa horses, known for their speed and endurance.
Visitors can explore museum exhibits, watch cultural demonstrations, and walk interpretive trails. Nearby, the Lolo Trail offers a chance to experience part of the same route Lewis and Clark traveled.

For history lovers and outdoor adventurers alike, the Nez Perce National Historical Park is a must-visit!

All photos credited to Cait Clark.

Step Into History at the Lewis and Clark Interpret

Step Into History at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Sioux City, Iowa!!

Located along the Missouri River, the Sioux City Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center offers an in-depth look at the legendary Lewis and Clark Expedition and its impact on the region. This site is especially significant as it honors Sergeant Charles Floyd, the only member of the expedition to die during the journey. His passing in 1804 near present-day Sioux City remains an important chapter in expedition history.

During Lewis and Clark’s time, this area was an untamed wilderness of rolling prairies and towering cottonwood trees. Today, it is home to a modern interpretive center surrounded by beautiful riverfront landscapes, parks, and monuments, including the Sergeant Floyd Monument, a 100-foot obelisk marking his burial site.
Fun fact: The center features life-sized animatronic figures of Lewis, Clark, and Floyd, bringing history to life in an engaging way!

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, historical reenactments, and educational programs. The nearby riverfront trails and parks offer a perfect place for walking, biking, and reflecting on the expedition’s journey. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, the Sioux City Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is a must-visit!

All photos credited to Cait Clark

Step Into History at Fort Belle Fontaine! Establi

Step Into History at Fort Belle Fontaine!

Established in 1805, Fort Belle Fontaine was the first U.S. military post west of the Mississippi River and played a key role for the Lewis and Clark Expedition. After completing their journey, the Corps of Discovery stopped here to report their findings, marking a historic moment in America’s westward expansion.

Today, Fort Belle Fontaine Park occupies the same scenic area that was once home to the fort. While the original structures are no longer standing due to natural shifts in the Missouri River’s path, visitors can still see remnants of stonework from later military installations and enjoy trails, woodlands, and views of the river. The name “Belle Fontaine” means “beautiful fountain” in French, referring to the natural springs that were once a key resource for the fort.

Fun fact: Fort Belle Fontaine was a vital outpost, not only for Lewis and Clark, but also for trade and interaction with Native American nations.

Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this peaceful, historic setting. Whether you're a nature lover or history buff, Fort Belle Fontaine offers a unique glimpse into the past!

Have you visited this historic site? Share your thoughts below!

Photos courtesy of the U. S. National Park Service and Explore St. Louis

Established in 1818 by the North West Company, For

Established in 1818 by the North West Company, Fort Nez Perce was near the mouth the Walla Walla River. It is in this area that the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped April 29, 1806 in their third night with Chief Yellepet.

The current red #22 navigation marker on a tall piling sits on the spot where Ft Nez Perce was located, and is visible from the Wallula Junction area on Hwy 730 mile marker 5 and is 4/10 mile north of the mouth of the Walla Walla River. From here the Expedition headed northeast on the Overland Trail.

https://lewis-clark.org/day-by-day/29-apr-1806/

April 23, 1806 - the Expedition woke up at their c

April 23, 1806 - the Expedition woke up at their campsite which is behind John Day Lock and Dam but Charbonneau was missing his two horses, and so they were delayed, and one was given up as lost.

During the day they walked on loose sand for twelve miles and were happy to stop and make their next camp at Rock Creek.

Here Charbonneau made arrangements for another horse, as Clark wrote:

"Shabono made a bargin with one of the Indian men going with us, for a horse for Which he gave his Shirt. and two of the leather Sutes of his wife."

https://lewis-clark.org/day-by-day/23-apr-1806/