Get to know Clark County
Camas
Camas, Washington, is a picturesque city nestled along the Columbia River in Clark County, known for its charming small-town atmosphere and thriving natural beauty. Originally founded as a mill town, Camas has evolved into a vibrant community that blends historic character with modern amenities. The city is home to Lacamas Lake and a scenic trail network, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Its highly rated schools, growing tech industry presence, and revitalized downtown—featuring boutique shops, restaurants, and art galleries—contribute to its appeal as one of the most desirable places to live in the Pacific Northwest.
Washougal
Washougal, Washington, is a small, scenic city located at the western gateway to the Columbia River Gorge. Known for its natural beauty, it offers easy access to hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing at places like Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge and the Washougal and Columbia Rivers. With a rich history dating back to the Lewis and Clark expedition, Washougal combines outdoor adventure with small-town charm.
The downtown area features local breweries, restaurants, and community events like art festivals and holiday parades. Ongoing revitalization efforts, including new parks and public spaces, are helping to grow Washougal while preserving its welcoming, close-knit feel.
Vancouver
Vancouver, Washington, is a dynamic city situated along the Columbia River, just across from Portland, Oregon. As the fourth-largest city in Washington State, it boasts a rich history dating back to the early 1800s and offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city's revitalized waterfront features a 7.3-acre park, the Vancouver Land Bridge, and a five-mile trail connecting to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Vancouver is renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with the Kiggins Theatre, a restored 1936 venue, and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra contributing to its cultural landscape . The city also hosts annual events such as the Recycled Arts Festival, Fourth of July fireworks at Fort Vancouver, and the Vancouver Wine and Jazz Festival . With its combination of historical significance, cultural attractions, and scenic beauty, Vancouver offers a unique and enriching experience for residents and visitors alike.
Ridgefield
Ridgefield, Washington, is a picturesque city located in the northwest corner of Clark County, just north of Vancouver. With a population of approximately 15,000, it offers a blend of small-town charm and natural beauty. The city is rich in history, notably as a site visited by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in the early 1800s. Today, Ridgefield is perhaps best known for the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, a 5,228-acre sanctuary that serves as a critical stopover for migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway.
The city's historic downtown area features tree-lined streets with unique shops, restaurants, and community parks such as Overlook Park and Abrams Park, which offer recreational opportunities and scenic views . Ridgefield also boasts the Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex, a premier facility for sports leagues and tournaments. For entertainment, the RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater, the largest outdoor amphitheater in the Portland metro area, hosts concerts and events throughout the year. With its combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and community amenities, Ridgefield offers a unique living experience in the Pacific Northwest.
Cowlitz County
For those considering relocating to Southwest Washington, the cities of Longview, Kelso, and Kalama offer a unique blend of small-town charm, vibrant communities, and abundant recreational opportunities.
Kalama, Washington offers a picturesque setting along the Columbia River, with a strong emphasis on preserving its small-town atmosphere. The Port of Kalama supports a variety of industries, while the community enjoys events such as the Kalama Heritage Festival, the Untouchables Car Show, and the Hawaiian Heritage Festival. The city also boasts excellent schools and a welcoming environment for families.
Each of these cities provides a unique living experience, combining the tranquility of small-town life with access to modern amenities and a strong sense of community.
Longview, Washington serves as the regional hub, boasting a rich history and a strong sense of community. Home to Lower Columbia College, it offers educational opportunities and a variety of cultural events. The annual Go Fourth Fest at Lake Sacajawea attracts over 30,000 visitors with its parade, live music, and fireworks display.
Kelso, Washington is a growing city with a commitment to community development. The Kelso Business & Community Association actively promotes local businesses and organizes events like the annual Christmas Tree Lighting and the Show and Shine VW car show. The city is also investing in infrastructure, with $98.6 million in school capital improvements underway.
Woodland
Woodland, Washington, is a charming small town located 20 miles north of Vancouver, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a strong sense of community. With a population of just over 6,000, it provides a peaceful retreat while maintaining convenient access to urban amenities via Interstate 5. The town is renowned for the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens, a historic site where visitors can enjoy over 90 varieties of lilacs during the annual Lilac Days Festival each spring. Additionally, the Cedar Creek Grist Mill, built in 1876 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a glimpse into the area's milling history.
Woodland also hosts several community events that foster a strong local culture. Planter’s Day, celebrated every June, is the oldest of its kind in the Pacific Northwest and includes a parade, carnival, fireworks, and more. The town is also a gateway to Mount St. Helens, offering residents and visitors access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. With its combination of natural attractions, historical sites, and active community life, Woodland presents an appealing option for those seeking a tranquil yet connected lifestyle.
Yacolt & Amboy
Yacolt and Amboy, two neighboring small towns in Clark County, offer a peaceful rural lifestyle just about 30 miles northeast of Vancouver. Yacolt is known for its charming Pomeroy Living History Farm and scenic Chelatchie Prairie Railroad train rides, while Amboy hosts popular community events like the Amboy Territorial Days festival. Both towns provide easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing, making them ideal for those seeking a close-knit community surrounded by natural beauty but still within reach of urban amenities.
Together, Yacolt and Amboy embody the relaxed pace and strong community spirit of Southwest Washington’s countryside. Residents enjoy a blend of small-town charm, local traditions, and proximity to larger cities like Vancouver and Portland for work and entertainment. Whether you’re drawn by historic sites, seasonal festivals, or outdoor adventures, these towns offer a welcoming environment perfect for families, retirees, or anyone looking to escape the hustle without sacrificing convenience.
La Center
La Center, Washington, is a charming small town nestled in the scenic foothills of the Cascade Range, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, community spirit, and modern amenities. Residents and visitors alike enjoy a plethora of recreational activities, from hiking and biking trails to kayaking on the East Fork of the Lewis River. The city's parks, such as Sternwheeler Park with its outdoor amphitheater and Holley Park featuring a splash pad and Little League fields, provide ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Community events like the "Our Days Sternwheeler Celebration," weekly farmers' markets, and seasonal festivals foster a strong sense of local pride and engagement. With its proximity to Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon, La Center offers a tranquil retreat without sacrificing access to urban conveniences.
The town's vibrant local economy is supported by a diverse array of businesses, including cozy eateries like 4th Street Bar and Grill and El Rancho Viejo, as well as specialty shops such as Sadie & Josie's Bakery and Stonehill Coffee House. For those seeking wellness services, establishments like All Ways Well Acupuncture & Wellness and Blissed Bodywork cater to a variety of needs. Additionally, the presence of three card rooms—New Phoenix, Last Frontier, and Fortune—adds a unique aspect to the local entertainment scene. La Center's commitment to quality education is evident through its well-regarded public schools, and the town's low crime rate and family-friendly atmosphere make it an appealing choice for those looking to settle in the Pacific Northwest.
Battle Ground
Battle Ground, Washington, offers a vibrant blend of small-town charm and abundant outdoor recreation, making it an ideal location for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. The city hosts annual events like Harvest Days, featuring parades and a chili cook-off, and participates in the Portland Rose Festival's Grand Floral Parade, showcasing its community spirit and cultural pride . With a population of approximately 22,470, Battle Ground serves as the commercial and social hub for north Clark County, providing a variety of shops, services, and dining options .
For outdoor enthusiasts, Battle Ground boasts numerous parks and recreational facilities. Kiwanis Park, the city's largest community park, offers amenities such as a splash pad, basketball courts, frisbee golf course, and a veterans memorial . Battle Ground Lake State Park, located just northeast of the city, features a 280-acre area with a volcanic crater lake, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and non-motorized boating . The city's commitment to recreation is further evident in its 22 parks and 206 acres of open space reserves, catering to a wide range of outdoor activities .