Cities and Towns in Skamania County, Washington
Founded in 1854, Skamania County is one of 39 counties in the state of Washington. Historically, Skamania County was formed from Clark County. The city of Stevenson is the county seat. With FIPS code of 59, Skamania County has a population of 12,036 and area of 1,656 square miles (4,289 km²).
List of all cities in Skamania County, WA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Carson, WA | 98610 | 509 |
| North Bonneville, WA | 98639 | 509 |
| Skamania, WA | 98648 | 509 |
| Stevenson, WA | 98648 | 509 |
| Underwood, WA | 98651 | 509 |
Major Cities and Towns in Skamania County, Washington
Stevenson
Location and History
- Area: 2.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,500
- Zip Codes: 98648
- Latitude: 45.6932° N
- Longitude: 121.8651° W
Stevenson is the county seat of Skamania County, located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. Established in the 1850s, it grew as a transportation and trading hub due to its proximity to the river and its location along the Oregon Trail. The town was named after Fort Stevenson, a military outpost that operated during the mid-1800s. Early economic activities in Stevenson were focused on logging, fishing, and serving as a stop for river traffic. With the completion of the Stevenson Bridge in 1927, the town’s connectivity to other areas increased, spurring growth. Stevenson has remained a small, rural community, but its scenic location near the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Columbia River has made it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stevenson is served by the Stevenson-Carson School District, which includes Stevenson High School and Carson Middle School. The town is home to several key landmarks, including the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center, which highlights the region’s natural and cultural history. The Stevenson Waterfront Park offers access to the river for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking, with stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and mountains. Bridge of the Gods, a historic bridge spanning the Columbia River, is another notable landmark near Stevenson. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to nearby Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument for hiking, camping, and exploring. The Skamania Lodge, with its championship golf course and rustic accommodations, is a key resort destination.
Carson
Location and History
- Area: 0.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300
- Zip Codes: 98610
- Latitude: 45.7457° N
- Longitude: 121.9057° W
Carson is a small unincorporated town located in the southern part of Skamania County, near the Columbia River. The town has its origins in the late 19th century, with the establishment of a post office in 1889. Carson was named after Captain Andrew Carson, a prominent figure in the early history of the region. Like many towns in Skamania County, Carson was historically a center for logging and agriculture, and its proximity to the river made it an important transportation point. Although much smaller than Stevenson, Carson has retained its rural character and is primarily a residential community. The town is popular with those looking for a quiet, nature-oriented lifestyle while being close to the larger towns and cities in the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Carson is part of the Stevenson-Carson School District, which includes nearby Stevenson High School and Carson Middle School. The town’s biggest draw is the nearby Gifford Pinchot National Forest, which offers countless outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. Carson Hot Springs Resort, one of the area’s historical attractions, provides mineral hot springs baths and accommodations. The Wind River runs near Carson, offering opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Bonneville Dam, located a few miles to the north, is a major landmark, known for its hydroelectric power generation and fish ladders, attracting visitors interested in history and environmental science. The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is also within a short drive from Carson, offering visitors a chance to explore volcanic landscapes and learn about the 1980 eruption.
North Bonneville
Location and History
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000
- Zip Codes: 98639
- Latitude: 45.6945° N
- Longitude: 121.9807° W
North Bonneville is a small town located in the Columbia River Gorge, near the Bonneville Dam and Mount Hood. The town was established in the 1930s as a company town for workers involved in the construction of the Bonneville Dam, a major infrastructure project that provided hydroelectric power and helped with river navigation. North Bonneville was originally designed as a residential community for the dam’s workforce but has since evolved into a quiet, scenic town. The town is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, with access to both the river and the forests in the area. North Bonneville is a popular base for outdoor activities and a gateway to the larger Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
North Bonneville is served by the Stevenson-Carson School District, with students attending schools in Stevenson. Major landmarks include the Bonneville Lock and Dam, an engineering marvel and popular tourist site that includes interpretive displays, fish ladders, and scenic viewpoints. The town also sits near the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, offering miles of trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Beacon Rock State Park, located just across the river in Washington, is another iconic landmark, famous for its rock formation that was once used as a navigational aid for Lewis and Clark. North Bonneville also attracts visitors to the Skamania Lodge and its surrounding golf course. The town’s Horseshoe Lake is a popular spot for fishing and picnicking.
Skamania
Location and History
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 100
- Zip Codes: 98648
- Latitude: 45.6908° N
- Longitude: 121.8000° W
Skamania is a small town located in the southwestern part of Skamania County, nestled between the Columbia River and the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The town was originally established as a service community for the logging industry in the early 1900s, with its name derived from the Skamania Indians, the indigenous people of the area. Over the years, Skamania has remained a small, rural town with a deep connection to the natural environment and its logging roots. Its location along the Columbia River Gorge makes it an attractive spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who seek to explore the scenic beauty of the region. Today, Skamania serves as a quiet residential community with easy access to hiking trails and the Columbia River.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Skamania is served by the Stevenson-Carson School District, with nearby schools in Stevenson offering educational opportunities. One of the town’s key landmarks is Skamania Lodge, which offers a rustic retreat with a golf course, spa, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town is located near the Columbia River Gorge, a major scenic area that provides opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying breathtaking views of the river and surrounding mountains. Horseshoe Lake, located just outside of Skamania, offers a peaceful setting for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. Nearby, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest provides extensive hiking, camping, and outdoor adventure options. The Lewis and Clark Trail also passes through the area, providing a historic connection to the region’s exploration and settlement.