Cities and Towns in Columbia County, Washington
Founded in 1875, Columbia County is one of 39 counties in the state of Washington. Historically, Columbia County was formed from Walla Walla County. The city of Dayton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 13, Columbia County has a population of 3,952 and area of 869 square miles (2,251 km²).
List of all cities in Columbia County, WA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Dayton, WA | 99328 | 509 |
| Starbuck, WA | 99359 | 509 |
Major Cities and Towns in Columbia County, Washington
1. Dayton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.74 square miles
- Population: Approx. 2,500
- Zip Codes: 99328
- Latitude: 46.3167° N
- Longitude: 118.2905° W
Location and History:
Dayton is located in the southeastern part of Columbia County, along the Touchet River in the Walla Walla Valley. It was founded in the 1860s and became the county seat of Columbia County in 1875. The city is named after Dayton, Ohio, and was initially settled by pioneers who established farms and businesses in the fertile valley. Dayton grew as a hub for agriculture, particularly wheat farming, and also benefited from its location along the Oregon Trail. Over the years, the town has maintained its small-town character while offering a mix of historic architecture and modern conveniences. Agriculture, particularly grain production, remains an important part of Dayton’s economy, but the city has also become known for its cultural events and tourism, with visitors drawn to the surrounding scenic landscapes and historic sites.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Dayton is served by the Dayton School District, which includes Dayton High School and several elementary schools. The district is known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. Major landmarks in Dayton include the Columbia County Courthouse, a historic building that reflects the city’s role as the county seat, and the Liberty Theatre, a restored 1920s theater that hosts community events, live performances, and film screenings. The city is also home to the Dayton Historic District, which features a number of well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Outdoor attractions include the nearby Lewis & Clark Trail State Park, where visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Dayton also hosts the annual Dayton Days festival, celebrating the city’s history and agricultural roots.
2. Starbuck
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 0.54 square miles
- Population: Approx. 150
- Zip Codes: 99359
- Latitude: 46.4261° N
- Longitude: 118.2616° W
Location and History:
Starbuck is a small town located in the southeastern corner of Columbia County, along the Snake River. The town was originally established as a railroad station in the late 1800s and was named after a character in Herman Melville’s novel Moby-Dick. Starbuck was a key point in the transportation network during the early 20th century, especially for shipping agricultural goods like wheat and barley. With the advent of modern transportation systems, Starbuck’s population and economy have remained small, though the town continues to serve as a quiet rural community surrounded by agricultural fields. The town’s picturesque location near the Snake River, with access to outdoor recreation and the nearby town of Dayton, gives Starbuck a rural charm and draws occasional visitors seeking solitude and scenic views.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Starbuck is part of the Columbia School District, but due to its small population, it does not have its own schools and students typically attend nearby schools in Dayton or larger communities. Despite its small size, Starbuck is home to several local landmarks. The Snake River offers fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing opportunities, and the nearby Lyons Ferry State Park is a popular spot for picnicking and enjoying the river’s stunning landscapes. Starbuck is also known for the Starbuck Grange, a historical social and agricultural organization that hosts community events. Though it is a tiny town, Starbuck’s natural surroundings, including access to the river and open fields, contribute to its quiet rural appeal, offering residents and visitors alike a peaceful environment to enjoy outdoor activities.
3. Prescott
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 0.88 square miles
- Population: Approx. 300
- Zip Codes: 99348
- Latitude: 46.1094° N
- Longitude: 118.2986° W
Location and History:
Prescott is located in the southeastern part of Columbia County, near the foothills of the Blue Mountains. Founded in the 1880s, the town was named after Prescott, Arizona, by a local land developer. Initially, Prescott served as a supply point for the surrounding farming communities, particularly those growing wheat and grain. Over time, the town developed into a small agricultural hub, though its population remained small. The construction of nearby reservoirs and irrigation systems helped the local economy by increasing the amount of arable land, making the area suitable for farming. Prescott has kept a quiet, rural character over the years, with many of its residents working in agriculture or commuting to nearby towns. The town’s location along the Oregon Trail and proximity to the Blue Mountains provides a scenic backdrop, offering recreational opportunities for hiking, fishing, and outdoor exploration.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Prescott is served by the Prescott School District, which includes Prescott High School, a small school that offers a range of academic programs. The town also has a local library and several small businesses that serve the surrounding agricultural community. Prescott’s most notable landmarks include the historic Prescott Hotel, a building dating back to the early 1900s, which serves as a reminder of the town’s commercial past. The nearby Blue Mountains offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and camping, while the Tucannon River provides opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. Prescott is also close to the Umatilla National Forest, which draws visitors for its vast wilderness areas and recreational opportunities. The town is a quiet base for those exploring the natural beauty of southeastern Washington.
4. Lebam
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approx. 250
- Zip Codes: 98554
- Latitude: 46.5242° N
- Longitude: 123.5019° W
Location and History:
Lebam is located in the western part of Columbia County, nestled in the Willapa Hills near the border with Pacific County. The town’s history is tied to the timber industry, as the surrounding forests were heavily logged during the early 20th century. It was originally a logging and mill town, with several sawmills and timber-related businesses providing employment to the area. Over time, as the timber industry in the region declined, Lebam’s population shrank, and the town transitioned to a quieter, more residential community. Its location along the Willapa River offers natural beauty and provides access to outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. Despite its small size, Lebam remains an important rural community in Columbia County and offers a peaceful, secluded lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Lebam is served by the Willapa Valley School District, which includes Willapa Valley High School and a few smaller schools. The district provides educational services for the surrounding rural communities. Key landmarks in Lebam include the Willapa River, which offers recreational opportunities like fishing, canoeing, and wildlife observation. The town is also close to the Willapa Hills, which provide opportunities for hiking, camping, and nature exploration. Local attractions also include the historic remains of former sawmills and logging camps that speak to the town’s industrial past. While Lebam is a small, rural community, its surrounding natural beauty makes it a quiet retreat for residents and visitors alike, offering a slower-paced lifestyle in close proximity to larger towns like Longview and Raymond.
5. Clatskanie
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 2.73 square miles
- Population: Approx. 1,500
- Zip Codes: 97016
- Latitude: 46.1373° N
- Longitude: 123.2276° W
Location and History:
Clatskanie is located on the northern edge of Columbia County, near the border with Oregon, along the Columbia River. The town was established in the early 20th century as a lumber mill town, due to the region’s abundant forests. The name “Clatskanie” comes from the Clatskanies, a Native American tribe that historically inhabited the area. Clatskanie was incorporated in 1911, and the town’s economy has historically been driven by logging, fishing, and agriculture. Over time, Clatskanie has diversified, with a growing focus on tourism, small businesses, and retail. The town’s proximity to the Columbia River and nearby natural resources offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, while the community has managed to maintain a charming, small-town atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Clatskanie is served by the Clatskanie School District, which includes Clatskanie High School and several elementary schools. The district is known for its strong athletic programs and community engagement. Key landmarks in Clatskanie include the Clatskanie River and the nearby Columbia River, both offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. The town is also home to the historic Clatskanie Falls, a picturesque waterfall located near the center of the town. Clatskanie has a small, downtown area with shops and restaurants, and the nearby forests and parks provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking and camping. The annual Clatskanie Bluegrass Festival draws visitors from all over, showcasing the town’s musical culture and community spirit.
