The Tillamook State Forest covers 364,000 acres, and it has an inspiring history. In the 1930s and 1940s, several wildfires decimated this land. In the following decades, schoolchildren and other volunteers planted more than 72,000 seedlings, successfully rehabilitating the forest from the Tillamook Burn.

Today, visitors will find plenty of campgrounds, hiking trails, and opportunities to fish and swim here, but this forest is also home to a wonderful place where you can learn more about its history, industry, and natural wonders.

Check out the Tillamook Forest Center:

Welcome to the Tillamook Forest Center. You're about to embark on an amazing learning journey, and the best part? Admission is free!

You'll find the Tillamook Forest Center about 20 minutes from Tillamook, or an hour from Portland. If you don't feel like driving, you can take The Wave public transit service from Tillamook for just $1.

The forest center is open for most of the year, but hours vary. No matter what the weather, you'll find plenty to do here, but make sure to bring appropriate clothing, and wear some hiking boots if you want to explore the trails.

The center typically opens in March, and spring hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the center stays open til 5 p.m., then goes back to a 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. schedule from Labor Day through November. It's closed November - February.

Smokey the Bear greets you at the door. You know his slogan: Only YOU Can Prevent Forest Fires. The Tillamook Forest certainly has a history of forest fires, and you'll learn more inside.

Step into the Forest Center, which is filled with all kinds of interactive exhibits.

You'll learn about the Tillamook Burn, the forest's history, its wildlife, plants, and more. You'll also want to watch the award-winning film, "Legacy of Fire."

Make sure to climb the 40-foot-tall replica fire tower that stands outside the forest center. You'll get an eagle's eye view of the tree canopy from up there.

When the weather's nice, you'll want to take a stroll along the network of trails. Cross the 250-foot-long Wilson River Suspension Bridge, stopping in the middle to gaze down into the river.

The bridge leads you to the Wilson River Trail, which meanders along the river for almost a half mile. Continue on to see Wilson River Falls, which is 1.7 miles from the bridge.

The Fish Viewing Trail, River View Trail, and Lookout Loop are also fun to explore, and provide plenty of spots where you can sit and enjoy the beauty of the forest.

Admission to the Tillamook Forest Center is free, but you might want to consider making a small donation during your visit.

Learn more about the Tillamook Forest Center on its website, and follow its Facebook page to learn about ongoing programs and activities there.

Have you visited the Tillamook Forest Center? If so, we'd love to hear about your day trip there - share in the comments.