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Cities and Towns in Columbia County, Oregon

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Founded in 1854, Columbia County is one of 36 counties in the state of Oregon. Historically, Columbia County was formed from Northern half of Washington County. The city of Saint Helens is the county seat. With FIPS code of 9, Columbia County has a population of 53,074 and area of 657 square miles (1,702 km²).

List of all cities in Columbia County, OR alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Birkenfeld, OR 97016 503/971
Clatskanie, OR 97016 503/971
Columbia City, OR 97018 503/971
Deer Island, OR 97054 503/971
Mist, OR 97016 503/971
Rainier, OR 97048 503/971
Saint Helens, OR 97051 503/971
Scappoose, OR 97056 503/971
Vernonia, OR 97064 503/971
Warren, OR 97053 503/971
Westport, OR 97016 503/971

Major Cities and Towns in Columbia County, Oregon

St. Helens

Overview

St. Helens, the county seat of Columbia County, is situated along the Columbia River, approximately 30 miles northwest of Portland. Established in 1845 by Captain Henry Montgomery Knighton, it was initially named Plymouth but was later renamed St. Helens due to its proximity to Mount St. Helens. The city’s early economy was driven by the timber industry and river trade, leveraging its strategic location along the river.

  • Area: Approximately 5.3 square miles
  • Population: Around 17,543 residents
  • ZIP Code: 97051
  • Latitude: 45.8597° N
  • Longitude: 122.8165° W

Education and Landmarks

St. Helens is served by the St. Helens School District, which includes St. Helens High School, known for its comprehensive academic and extracurricular programs. Notable landmarks in the city include the historic Columbia County Courthouse, a testament to early 20th-century architecture, and the waterfront area, which offers scenic views of the Columbia River. The city also hosts the annual 13 Nights on the River concert series, celebrating local music and community spirit.

Scappoose

Overview

Scappoose is located south of St. Helens, approximately 20 miles northwest of Portland. The name “Scappoose” is derived from a Native American term meaning “gravelly plain.” Established in the mid-19th century, the city developed as an agricultural and logging community, benefiting from its fertile lands and proximity to the river.

  • Area: Approximately 2.75 square miles
  • Population: Around 12,645 residents
  • ZIP Code: 97056
  • Latitude: 45.7543° N
  • Longitude: 122.8776° W

Education and Landmarks

The Scappoose School District serves the city, with Scappoose High School offering a range of educational programs. A significant landmark is the Scappoose Industrial Airpark, which supports local aviation activities. The city also features Heritage Park, a community space that hosts events and provides recreational opportunities for residents.

Rainier

Overview

Rainier is situated along the Columbia River, directly across from Longview, Washington. Founded in 1851, it was named after Mount Rainier, which is visible from the area on clear days. The city’s history is closely tied to the timber industry, with logging and milling playing significant roles in its development.

  • Area: Approximately 4.1 square miles
  • Population: Around 7,283 residents
  • ZIP Code: 97048
  • Latitude: 46.0893° N
  • Longitude: 122.9376° W

Education and Landmarks

Rainier School District operates Rainier Junior/Senior High School, serving students from the city and surrounding areas. Notable landmarks include the Lewis and Clark Bridge, connecting Rainier to Longview, and the Rainier City Park, which offers recreational facilities and hosts community events. The city’s waterfront area provides picturesque views of the Columbia River, enhancing its appeal.

Clatskanie

Overview

Clatskanie is located in the northwestern part of Columbia County, along the Clatskanie River. Established in the mid-19th century, it was named after the Tlatskanai Native American tribe. The city’s development was influenced by logging, fishing, and agriculture, with its river access facilitating trade and transportation.

  • Area: Approximately 1.3 square miles
  • Population: Around 1,716 residents
  • ZIP Code: 97016
  • Latitude: 46.1037° N
  • Longitude: 123.2065° W

Education and Landmarks

Clatskanie School District includes Clatskanie Middle/High School, providing education for grades 6 through 12. A notable landmark is the Clatskanie Riverfront District, featuring parks and walking trails along the river. The city also hosts the annual Clatskanie Heritage Days, celebrating its history and community spirit.

Columbia City

Overview

Columbia City is a small community located along the Columbia River, just north of St. Helens. Incorporated in 1926, it developed as a residential area with a focus on river-related activities. The city’s name reflects its proximity to the Columbia River, which has been central to its identity and development.

  • Area: Approximately 0.8 square miles
  • Population: Around 1,773 residents
  • ZIP Code: 97018
  • Latitude: 45.8949° N
  • Longitude: 122.8109° W

Education and Landmarks

Columbia City is part of the St. Helens School District, with students attending schools in nearby St. Helens. A significant landmark is the Columbia City Community Hall, which serves as a venue for local events and gatherings. The city also features several parks, such as Harvard Park, offering recreational spaces for residents.

Vernonia

Overview

Vernonia is located in the southwestern part of Columbia County, along the Nehalem River. Established in the late 19th century, it developed as a logging town, with the Oregon-American Lumber Company playing a significant role in its growth. The city’s history is deeply intertwined with the timber industry, which shaped its economy and culture.

  • Area: Approximately 1.6 square miles
  • Population: Around 3,462 residents
  • ZIP Code: 97064

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