A tipi sits beneath a tree near a walking trail
Rangers offer tipi demonstrations during the summer NPS Photo

Whitman Mission National Historic Site

National Historic Site · Washington · National Park Service

One moment can change the fate of many nations. After thousands of years of habitation by the Cayuse Nation, life in the Columbia River Plateau begins to change rapidly with the influx of missionaries, newcomers from the Oregon Trail, and diseases. A single violent act of desperation to protect a community ignites a series of events that will reshape the United States forever.

Plan your visit

Know before you go

Phone
5095226360
Official site
www.nps.gov
Managed by
National Park Service

Getting there

Directions on Google Maps →

What's here

Highlights: Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite · Farming and Agriculture · Medicine · Migrations · Monuments and Memorials · Native American Heritage · Religion and Spirituality · Missions · Tragic Events · Westward Expansion · Trails

Activities & features: Arts and Culture · Cultural Demonstrations · Food · Picnicking · Guided Tours · Self-Guided Tours - Walking · Hiking · Front-Country Hiking · Junior Ranger Program · Wildlife Watching · Birdwatching · Park Film · Museum Exhibits · Shopping · Bookstore and Park Store

Photos

  • View from above looking down at green fields, a pond, and mountains in the distance
    NPS Photo
  • An array of animal furs, beaded bags, and woven baskets
    NPS Photo
  • A tree reflected in a pond with more trees and a field of golden tall grass in the background
    NPS Photo
  • Cornhusk Flat Bag
    NPS Photo

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Sources: National Park Service, Google Places · updated 2026-08-12