How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Clatsop County Corrections Division.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Clatsop County Corrections Division is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Clatsop County Corrections Division.

Frequently asked questions about Clatsop County Corrections Division

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Clatsop County Corrections Division.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Clatsop County Corrections Division?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Clatsop County Corrections Division?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Clatsop County Corrections Division. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Clatsop County Corrections Division. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Clatsop County Corrections Division?

   Mailing address:

   Clatsop County Corrections Division
   636 Duane St
   Astoria, OR 97103
   Phone: (503) 325-8641

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Closed
   • Tuesday: Closed
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: Closed
   • Friday: Closed
   • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Clatsop County Corrections Division?

   Visiting hours at Clatsop County Corrections Division vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (503) 325-8641 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Clatsop County Corrections Division?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Clatsop County Corrections Division for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Clatsop County Corrections Division?

   You can send money to an inmate at Clatsop County Corrections Division through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Clatsop County Corrections Division?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Clatsop County Corrections Division, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Clatsop County Corrections Division?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Clatsop County Corrections Division for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Clatsop County Corrections Division, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Personal development begins with access to meaningful opportunities that build skills and address underlying challenges. At Clatsop County Jail, those incarcerated can engage with offerings designed to support both immediate needs and long-term success. The facility typically emphasizes structure and safety while providing pathways for growth through education, vocational training, and therapeutic support.

Educational services may furnish basic literacy instruction and GED preparation to help participants strengthen foundational skills. Vocational offerings often include hands-on training in areas such as small engine repair, which can provide practical skills for future employment opportunities. These programs typically operate within a structured environment that emphasizes both learning and personal responsibility.

In addition to educational and vocational components, the facility often includes various support services to address individual needs. Those incarcerated may access individual counseling sessions that focus on personal challenges and goal-setting. Cognitive behavioral programs typically help participants develop better decision-making skills and coping strategies. The facility may also furnish specialized offerings such as domestic violence programs for those who could benefit from this focused intervention. Transitional planning services often help individuals prepare for reentry by connecting them with community resources and developing practical release plans that support successful reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and social bonds remain central to the experience of those incarcerated at this Oregon facility. At present, the daily structure actively revolves around maintaining these relationships while adapting to institutional routines. Those incarcerated typically begin each day with scheduled counts and meal service, followed by work assignments or programming activities that furnish both structure and opportunities for positive interaction with peers and staff.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where those incarcerated may develop supportive relationships with fellow residents. The facility typically provides basic bedding, personal hygiene items, and limited storage space for approved personal belongings. Meals are usually served in common dining areas, creating natural opportunities for social interaction and community building. In addition to this, recreation periods often include access to television areas, games, and outdoor exercise spaces when weather permits.

Communication with family members remains a priority through scheduled visitation sessions and telephone access. Those incarcerated may participate in various programming activities that often focus on life skills, educational opportunities, or substance abuse treatment. Work assignments within the facility typically include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and maintenance tasks that help residents contribute to their community while developing job skills. Despite this structured environment, the facility generally allows for commissary purchases and personal correspondence to help maintain connections with loved ones outside the walls.