Long before highways and railroads crisscrossed America, the nation’s most legendary journey of exploration began at the edge of the frontier—in a humble military camp near present-day Wood River, Illinois. Known as Camp Dubois, this temporary outpost became the staging ground for Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they prepared to venture into the vast and uncharted American West.
Today, Camp Dubois is more than just a historical footnote. It marks the very beginning of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, a daring mission that would reshape the nation’s understanding of its own geography—and forever tie Wood River to one of the most important chapters in U.S. history.
A Camp With a Purpose
In December 1803, following the Louisiana Purchase, President Thomas Jefferson commissioned Lewis and Clark to explore the newly acquired western territories. Their task was ambitious: map the land, establish trade with Native American tribes, and search for a water route to the Pacific Ocean.
Before the journey could begin, the Corps of Discovery needed time to train, gather supplies, and prepare for the unknown. Camp Dubois (sometimes spelled “Camp Wood” in older texts) was selected for its strategic location near the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers—just across from the then-French-controlled town of St. Louis.
Although technically on the Illinois side, the camp offered safety and neutrality during a time of international tension. It also provided proximity to important trading posts and friendly settlers who supported the mission.
Life at Camp Dubois
From December 1803 to May 1804, Lewis, Clark, and nearly 40 men lived, trained, and worked at Camp Dubois. It was a time of intense preparation. The men practiced navigation, weapons drills, survival skills, and team coordination. They also built canoes, repaired equipment, and cataloged supplies that would be critical in the wilderness ahead.
Lewis and Clark were meticulous planners. Every pound of food, every notebook, every scientific instrument had to be accounted for. Their goal was not just to explore, but to document and report their findings in detail.
During the winter, the men braved harsh weather, illness, and the psychological strain of isolation. But Camp Dubois forged them into a unified force—the Corps of Discovery—that would soon face rivers, mountains, unfamiliar cultures, and life-or-death decisions.
Departure and Legacy
On May 14, 1804, the expedition officially departed from Camp Dubois and began its epic journey up the Missouri River. Over the next two years, they would travel more than 8,000 miles, encountering over 50 Native American tribes, discovering new species, and mapping a path to the Pacific Ocean.
Though Camp Dubois was only a temporary home, its role in the success of the mission was foundational. It was here that trust was built, leadership was tested, and plans became action.
Today, Camp Dubois is commemorated near the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site, just minutes from Wood River. Visitors can explore reconstructions of the original camp, view historical exhibits, and walk the very land where the Corps once trained.
A National Story with Local Roots
For the residents of Wood River, Camp Dubois is more than a tourist attraction—it’s a source of pride. It reminds us that even the most legendary journeys start in ordinary places, with ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
The story of Lewis and Clark is a story of discovery, courage, and curiosity—but it’s also a local story. It began right here, on the banks of the Wood River.
