Cities in Skamania County, Washington
Skamania County, Washington, is located in the southwestern part of the state, bordering the Columbia River and the Cascade Mountains. Established in 1854, Skamania County is renowned for its natural beauty, with vast forests, waterfalls, and rugged mountain terrain, including a significant portion of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The county’s economy historically relied on logging, but today tourism plays a major role, attracting visitors for outdoor recreation and scenic vistas. Stevenson, the county seat, sits on the Columbia River and serves as a gateway to the numerous recreational activities in the region.
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 12,000
- County Seat: Stevenson
- Cities and Towns: 3, including incorporated cities and unincorporated towns
List of Cities and Towns in Skamania County, Washington
1. Stevenson
- Year Founded: 1907
- Population: Approximately 1,500
- Population Density: 600 people per square mile
- Area Code: 509
- Elevation: 80 feet
Stevenson, the county seat of Skamania County, is a picturesque town located along the Columbia River. Known for its proximity to the Columbia River Gorge, Stevenson offers breathtaking views, easy access to outdoor recreation, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. State Route 14 runs through the town, providing convenient travel along the river and connecting Stevenson to Vancouver, Washington, and other towns within the Gorge. The nearby Bridge of the Gods links the Washington and Oregon sides of the river, facilitating cross-state tourism.
Things to Do:
Stevenson offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, kayaking, and fishing in the Columbia River Gorge area. The Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum provides insights into local history, culture, and geology. For those interested in wine, the region’s growing wine scene offers tastings and vineyard tours. Skamania Lodge, a major resort in Stevenson, features golf courses, spa services, and ziplining. Annual events like the Gorge Blues & Brews Festival and the Stevenson Waterfront Music Festival celebrate local culture with music, food, and crafts, making Stevenson a lively spot year-round.
2. North Bonneville
- Year Founded: 1938
- Population: Approximately 1,000
- Population Density: 300 people per square mile
- Area Code: 509
- Elevation: 65 feet
North Bonneville is a small town along the Columbia River, known for its scenic location near Bonneville Dam and the surrounding forests. Established as a relocation town during the construction of Bonneville Dam, North Bonneville offers easy access to the Gorge’s hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic viewpoints. State Route 14 connects the town to Stevenson and other communities in Skamania County, while the nearby dam provides a historic point of interest and opportunities for learning about hydroelectric power.
Things to Do:
North Bonneville is popular for outdoor activities, with nearby Beacon Rock State Park offering hiking, picnicking, and panoramic views from the top of Beacon Rock. The town’s Greenleaf Lake and Hamilton Creek provide tranquil fishing and kayaking spots. Visitors can also tour the Bonneville Dam, which features a visitor center with exhibits on hydroelectric power and fish migration. Each year, North Bonneville hosts community events such as outdoor movie nights and small festivals, adding a close-knit feel to this riverside town.
3. Carson
- Year Founded: 1890s
- Population: Approximately 2,000
- Population Density: 500 people per square mile
- Area Code: 509
- Elevation: 230 feet
Carson, an unincorporated community in Skamania County, is known for its hot springs, dense forests, and outdoor recreation. Located a few miles north of Stevenson, Carson provides a quieter, more rural setting for exploring the natural beauty of the Columbia River Gorge. The community is accessible via Wind River Highway, which connects it to other towns in the county and provides access to the surrounding wilderness areas.
Things to Do:
Carson’s main attraction is the Carson Hot Springs Resort, where visitors can relax in naturally heated mineral pools. For hikers, the nearby Wind River Arboretum and Falls Creek Falls Trail offer scenic routes through old-growth forests and alongside waterfalls. The Wind River provides opportunities for fishing and kayaking, and the Gifford Pinchot National Forest offers additional trails and campgrounds. Annual events in Carson include local craft fairs and outdoor adventure gatherings, celebrating the area’s natural heritage and outdoor lifestyle.
List of Communities in Skamania County, Washington
1. Stabler (Also known as Hemlock)
- Year Founded: Early 1900s
- Population: Approximately 250
- Population Density: 100 people per square mile
- Area Code: 509
- Elevation: 330 feet
Stabler is a small community surrounded by forested areas in the Cascade Mountains. Known for its serene setting, it serves as a gateway to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, providing access to hiking and camping.
2. Willard
- Year Founded: Early 1900s
- Population: Approximately 150
- Population Density: 80 people per square mile
- Area Code: 509
- Elevation: 550 feet
Willard is a quiet, unincorporated community located in a rural area with scenic forests and natural landscapes. It is a popular spot for nature lovers and serves as a retreat for those looking to explore nearby trails and rivers.