Astoria Oregon is the oldest permanent American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. John Jacob Astor, a wealthy New York fur merchant, sent his partners and fur traders around Cape Horn to compete with the British and Canadian trappers in this area. These men arrived in March of 1811.

In the late 1800s, Astoria's salmon canneries, forest, and shipping industries turned the area into the liveliest boom town between Seattle and San Francisco.

Many of the same natural-resource-based economic activities are still the mainstay of this area's economy. However, tourism and tourist-related activities such as sports fishing and eco-tourism are also important to the local economy.

Recreation in the area reflects the residents' respect for their natural surroundings and their long-standing love affair with the sea. World-class sport fishing for steelhead and salmon is available in the ocean, river, and lakes of the region. Many charter boats operate on the lower Columbia River. Hunting in the county is superior, providing elk, bear, deer, waterfowl, and pigeon. Clamming and crabbing are popular ways to enjoy the natural bounty and do not require a license. Hikers and campers have trouble deciding where to begin.

Golf, tennis, and bowling are all popular attractions. Several fine ski resorts are within a few hours' drive. Bicycling enthusiasts find safe cycling routes at Fort Stevens State Park, Lewis and Clark Road, and Youngs River Falls Loop. Fort Stevens State Park is Oregon's largest state park, located on 3,800 acres. Local Parks and Recreation Departments offer several recreation programs. Swimming, softball, soccer, volleyball, baseball, track, flag football, gymnastics, and tennis are all available.

The Astoria and Warrenton Oregon area comprises the cities of Astoria and Warrenton, and the unincorporated areas of Svensen and Knappa. It is situated at the mouth of the Columbia River in the northern half of Clatsop County, which is in the far northwest corner of the state of Oregon.

Less than two hours from the Portland metropolitan area, Clatsop County is known for its spectacular scenery, recreational opportunities, and abundance of natural resources.

Clatsop County enjoys the mild marine climate of the Pacific Ocean year round. The mean temperature ranges from 48 to 58 degrees, and residents enjoy over 300 frost-free days each year.