Once the largest salmon hatchery in the world, it is still busy producing nearly 13 million salmon every year. Returning salmon are collected; their eggs harvested and then kept in a series of pens until they are strong enough for release on their journey to the Pacific.  The Cowlitz Salmon hatchery is an award-winning public education center open to the public. Learn about the life cycle of salmon through interactive displays and take a self-guided tour of the hatchery area.

Visitor Center is open year round 8:00 am to 3:30 pm, with extended hours during peak days.