Camp River Dubois
1 Lewis and Clark Trail (GPS Use: 3500 New Poag Road)
Hartford, IL 62048
618-251-5811
The Lewis and Clark Illinois State Historic Site focuses on the winter camp, Camp River Dubois, of Lewis and Clark before they officially started their expedition. The Site's Visitor Center features a 55-foot full scale replica of the keel boat that was used for the expedition as well as an Interpretive Center that has four galleries, each portraying a part of what was accomplished at Camp River Dubois during that winter of 1804 to get ready for the Expedition. Also located on the Site is an outdoor replica of the winter encampment. Visitors can tour the fort, the sleeping quarters, the main building that was the guardhouse, storehouse and Captain's quarters. Tour guides are volunteers who reenact different aspects of life in the camp. A gift shop, The Store of Discovery, is available. Camp River Dubois is free to visitors, but donations are accepted.
Just a short drive to the bank of the Mississippi River, a monument stands on the exact location of the launching of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Parking is available.
The launching point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition Link
Camp Dubois-the launching point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition Link
Captian's quarters at Camp River Dubois Link
The Lewis and Clark Expedition began here! Link
The fort at Camp River Dubois Link
The Visitor's Center at the Lewis and Clark Illinois State Historic Site Link
Captain's quarters at Camp River Dubois Link
A replica of the Lewis and Clark keel boat-Camp River Dubois Link
Sleeping quarters at Camp River Dubois Link
The fort at Camp River Dubois Link
Camp River Dubois Link