Fort Humboldt in Northern California is a remnant of a U.S. Army outpost established in 1853 to protect settlers from Native American tribes. The one remaining original building, once a hospital, was moved to the current blufftop site, renovated, and is now a history museum within a state historic park.
It overlooks Humboldt Bay, the Samoa peninsula, and the city of Eureka, and houses exhibits on local history, military life at the fort, and famous scouts and traders. There is also a small exhibit about the native Wiyot people’s sacred sites, as well as some crafts and literature, but only one line referring to the massacre of 100 Wiyot men, women, and children by vigilantes in 1860; many of the remaining Wiyot were corralled at Fort Humboldt, and 200 died there from poor conditions and continuing violence before the survivors were resettled on reservations.
Paved paths lead past outdoor displays of both original and reconstructed military living quarters, tools, and a dugout redwood canoe. Narrow-gauge trains and original early logging equipment are displayed on tracks. Next to the museum is a historic herb and vegetable garden, which you can reach by traveling less than 50 feet across grass. Access is good throughout the grounds and museum.
Accessibility Details
The facilities listed below meet all of our access criteria unless otherwise noted.
Accessible Visitor Center: Yes
Indian and military artifacts and photographs are on display, including rousing accounts of the Native American experience of European settlers.
Accessible Parking: Yes
Next to the restroom
Accessible Restroom: Yes
Toilet is less than 17 inches high
Accessible Picnic Tables: Yes
To reach all tables you must travel across firm grass.
Additional Information
Hours: Grounds: Daily, 8 am-5 pm. Buildings and visitor center: Mon.-Fri., 8 am-5 pm
Map: See here.
Fees: None
Public Transportation: Eureka Transit Service
I has worked for more than 30 years advocating for, and educating about access to outdoor recreation and tourism for people with disabilities. I hold a degree in Recreation Therapy and was a travel agent specializing in accessible travel for many years. In this capacity, and now as Associate Director at Wheelchair Traveling, I consult with the travel industry about accessibility, conducts disability awareness trainings and writes about travel and outdoor recreation. I also authored a book titled, A Wheelchair Rider's Guide: San Francisco Bay and the Nearby Coast, about accessible trails and has produced several access guides to San Francisco. My most current project is a website of accessible trails along the entire California Coast (www.wheelingcalscoast.org). My extensive experience as a wheelchair rider combined with her professional experience has provided me with in-depth knowledge about inclusive tourism and outdoor recreation.
