Lewis and Clark Visit the Lewis & Clark Official Website In 1804, Lewis and Clark began their historic overland journey to the Pacific Ocean. They reached the mouth of the Columbia River on November 7, 1805. Their winter campsite, named Fort Clatsop, was constructed on the bank of the Lewis and Clark River. With a need for salt for the return journey, the expedition sent five men to find a beach site for salt making. The camp was established some 15 miles south of Fort Clatsop near the mouth of the Necanicum River - - the present site of Seaside. The salt makers camp was disbanded and the salt taken to Fort Clatsop on February 21, 1806. After presenting Fort Clatsop and its contents to the chief of the Clatsops, the expedition began its return trip March 23, 1806. end of pag