Cities and Towns in Cowlitz County, Washington

Founded in 1854, Cowlitz County is one of 39 counties in the state of Washington. Historically, Cowlitz County was formed from Lewis County. The city of Kelso is the county seat. With FIPS code of 15, Cowlitz County has a population of 110,730 and area of 1,139 square miles (2,950 km²).

List of all cities in Cowlitz County, WA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Ariel, WA	98603	360/564
Carrolls, WA	98609	360/564
Castle Rock, WA	98611	360/564
Cougar, WA	98616	360/564
Kalama, WA	98625	360/564
Kelso, WA	98626	360/564
Longview, WA	98632	360/564
Ryderwood, WA	98581	360/564
Silverlake, WA	98645	360/564
Toutle, WA	98645	360/564
Toutle, WA	98649	360/564
Woodland, WA	98674	360/564
Yale, WA	98603	360/564

Major Cities and Towns in Cowlitz County, Washington

1. Longview

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

• Area: 13.3 square miles
• Population: Approx. 37,000
• Zip Codes: 98632, 98626
• Latitude: 46.1384° N
• Longitude: 122.9302° W

Location and History:

Longview is located in the southwestern part of Cowlitz County, along the Columbia River. Founded in 1923 by Robert A. Long, a timber magnate, the city was originally developed as a planned community to support the booming timber industry. Longview’s early economy was centered around logging and sawmills, particularly the Weyerhaeuser Timber Company, which remains an important employer in the region. The city was strategically located for access to river transportation, contributing to its rapid growth and industrialization. Over the years, Longview has diversified into manufacturing, retail, and healthcare, while still maintaining its industrial roots. The city’s proximity to Portland, Oregon, has also fostered suburban growth. Longview’s development has made it the largest city in Cowlitz County and a key hub in the region for both industry and commerce.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Longview is served by the Longview School District, which includes several public schools such as Mark Morris High School and R.A. Long High School, both of which are well-known for their athletic and academic programs. The city also has a number of private schools and a branch of Lower Columbia College. Longview’s landmarks include the iconic Longview Bridge, which spans the Columbia River and connects Washington to Oregon, and the Cowlitz County Historical Museum, which offers exhibits on the area’s history, from Native American cultures to the logging boom. The Lake Sacajawea Park is a central feature in the city, offering walking trails, picnic areas, and a scenic lake. The park is a focal point for community events such as the annual Cowlitz County Fair and other local festivals.

2. Kelso

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

• Area: 7.2 square miles
• Population: Approx. 13,000
• Zip Codes: 98626
• Latitude: 46.1372° N
• Longitude: 122.9099° W

Location and History:

Kelso is located just to the north of Longview, along the Cowlitz River, and is the second-largest city in Cowlitz County. It was founded in the late 19th century as a railroad town, originally serving as a transportation hub for the logging and timber industries in the region. Kelso’s strategic location along the Cowlitz River and the Southern Pacific Railroad made it a key commercial center, especially in the timber and shipping industries. Like many cities in the Pacific Northwest, Kelso’s economy was built on natural resources, but over time, it has diversified to include retail, manufacturing, and services. Kelso’s proximity to Longview and Portland has made it an attractive place for suburban development, and it remains a vital part of Cowlitz County’s economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Kelso is served by the Kelso School District, which includes Kelso High School, a well-regarded institution with a strong athletic program and academic focus. The district also operates several middle and elementary schools. Major landmarks in Kelso include the Cowlitz County Historical Museum, which explores the region’s cultural and industrial heritage. Another significant landmark is the Kelso Depot, a restored train station that serves as a reminder of the city’s railroad history. Kelso is also home to the Tam O’Shanter Park, which offers outdoor recreation such as picnicking, walking trails, and sports fields. The city is located near the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, providing access to some of the most famous natural landmarks in the Pacific Northwest, including the Mount St. Helens eruption site and the surrounding national forest.

3. Castle Rock

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

• Area: 2.3 square miles
• Population: Approx. 2,500
• Zip Codes: 98611
• Latitude: 46.2907° N
• Longitude: 122.9021° W

Location and History:

Castle Rock is a small town situated on the Cowlitz River, just south of the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The town’s name is derived from Castle Rock, a prominent volcanic formation in the area, which towers over the surrounding landscape and is a local landmark. The city was originally established in the late 19th century, with its growth tied to the railroad and logging industries. Castle Rock’s location along the Cowlitz River made it a natural center for the timber trade. Over the years, the town has maintained a small but steady population and has become known for its quiet, rural charm. The town’s proximity to both the Columbia River and Mount St. Helens makes it a popular stop for travelers exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Castle Rock is served by the Castle Rock School District, which includes Castle Rock High School, known for its strong sports teams and community involvement. The district also includes a middle school and elementary schools. Notable landmarks in Castle Rock include the Castle Rock itself, which offers hiking opportunities and sweeping views of the surrounding area. The town is also home to the Seaquest State Park, which provides access to outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and boating on Silver Lake. Castle Rock is a gateway to exploring the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, making it a popular destination for visitors interested in outdoor recreation, history, and volcanic landscapes. The annual Castle Rock Fair is a local tradition, celebrating the town’s agricultural roots and community spirit.

4. Woodland

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

• Area: 5.2 square miles
• Population: Approx. 6,000
• Zip Codes: 98674
• Latitude: 45.9156° N
• Longitude: 122.7565° W

Location and History:

Woodland is located in the northern part of Cowlitz County, near the border with Oregon, along the Lewis River. The town was originally settled as an agricultural community, and its economy was historically based on farming, logging, and fishing. It was incorporated in 1906, and like many towns in the region, Woodland grew as a center for timber production and shipping. Over time, the town has seen increased residential development, partly due to its proximity to Portland, Oregon. Today, Woodland is known for its small-town charm, rural surroundings, and strong community spirit. Its location along the Lewis River offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Woodland is served by the Woodland School District, which includes Woodland High School, known for its commitment to academic achievement and sports programs. The district also operates several elementary and middle schools. Key landmarks in Woodland include the Lewis River, which offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking, and the nearby Cedar Creek Grist Mill, a historic site that showcases the town’s agricultural heritage. The town is also home to the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens, a popular attraction featuring beautifully landscaped gardens with thousands of lilacs in bloom. Woodland is located near the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, making it a popular stop for tourists visiting the area to see the volcanic landscape and engage in outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.

5. Kalama

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

• Area: 2.4 square miles
• Population: Approx. 2,400
• Zip Codes: 98625
• Latitude: 46.0434° N
• Longitude: 122.9277° W

Location and History:

Kalama is located along the Columbia River in the western part of Cowlitz County, near the Oregon border. The city was founded in the mid-19th century as a port town, serving as an important transportation hub for shipping timber and other goods down the Columbia River. The town was incorporated in 1890 and quickly became known for its riverfront access and its role in the region’s logging and fishing industries. Kalama’s location along the river and its close proximity to both Portland and Longview helped it grow into a small but bustling community. Today, Kalama retains much of its historical charm while offering a mix of residential, industrial, and recreational spaces. It is known for its scenic river views, historic buildings, and strong community ties.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Kalama is served by the Kalama School District, which includes Kalama High School, known for its strong academic and extracurricular programs. The district also operates several elementary and middle schools. Major landmarks in Kalama include the historic Kalama River Bridge, which offers stunning views of the Columbia River, and the Kalama Heritage Park, which showcases the town’s history through preserved artifacts and monuments. Kalama is also known for its riverside parks, including the Kalama Marina, where visitors can enjoy boating and fishing on the Columbia River. The nearby Kalama River and surrounding forests provide opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation, while the city’s proximity to the Columbia River Gorge and Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument makes it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.