Cities and Towns in Wahkiakum County, Washington
Founded in 1854, Wahkiakum County is one of 39 counties in the state of Washington. Historically, Wahkiakum County was formed from Cowlitz County. The city of Cathlamet is the county seat. With FIPS code of 69, Wahkiakum County has a population of 4,422 and area of 264 square miles (684 km²).
List of all cities in Wahkiakum County, WA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Cathlamet, WA | 98612 | 360/564 |
| Grays River, WA | 98621 | 360/564 |
| Puget Island, WA | 98612 | 360/564 |
| Rosburg, WA | 98643 | 360/564 |
| Skamokawa, WA | 98647 | 360/564 |
Major Cities and Towns in Wahkiakum County, Washington
Cathlamet
Location and History
- Area: 1.0 square mile
- Population: Approximately 600
- Zip Codes: 98612
- Latitude: 46.1914° N
- Longitude: 123.4015° W
Cathlamet is the county seat of Wahkiakum County, located on the Columbia River in southwestern Washington. Founded in the 19th century, the city was named after the Cathlamet tribe, a subgroup of the Chinook people who once inhabited the area. Cathlamet’s early economy was centered around timber and fishing, with the river serving as a major trade route for shipping logs, fish, and other goods. The town was incorporated in 1889, and though it remains small, it has maintained its historic charm, with several buildings dating back to the late 1800s. The city is accessible by ferry from Oregon, which adds to its quaint, small-town feel. With the Columbia River as its backdrop, Cathlamet is a peaceful, scenic community, known for its outdoor recreation and quiet, rural living.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cathlamet is served by the Wahkiakum School District, which includes Wahkiakum High School and Cathlamet Elementary School. A notable landmark in the city is the Cathlamet Waterfront Park, which offers views of the Columbia River and access to fishing, picnicking, and wildlife watching. The Wahkiakum County Historical Museum provides insight into the area’s indigenous history, early settlement, and economic development. The Columbia River Highway, which runs along the river, offers scenic driving and walking opportunities. Puget Island, just across the river from Cathlamet, is a popular destination for outdoor activities, including hiking and birdwatching. The Cathlamet Ferry provides vital transportation between Washington and Oregon, and is an integral part of the community’s life. Despite its small size, Cathlamet offers a serene, historically rich environment for residents and visitors alike.
Skamokawa
Location and History
- Area: 2.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000
- Zip Codes: 98647
- Latitude: 46.1550° N
- Longitude: 123.3742° W
Skamokawa is a small community located along the Columbia River, about 12 miles west of Cathlamet. The name “Skamokawa” comes from the Chinook word for “red fish,” referring to the salmon in the river. The area was historically inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Chinook people, who relied on the river for fishing and trade. European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s, and the town developed as a center for shipping and fishing. Skamokawa was incorporated in 1876 and served as an important stop for riverboats along the Columbia. Today, Skamokawa remains a quiet rural community, with a strong focus on its natural surroundings and outdoor recreation opportunities. Its proximity to the river and surrounding forests make it a popular spot for tourists interested in nature and history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Skamokawa is part of the Wahkiakum School District, which also serves the nearby communities of Cathlamet and Rosburg. The Skamokawa Grange Hall is a community gathering place that hosts local events, including agricultural fairs and potlucks. The Skamokawa Vista Park offers sweeping views of the Columbia River, with trails for hiking and opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and kayaking. The Skamokawa Heritage Center is a local museum that highlights the history of the area, from its Native American roots to its role in the development of river trade and commerce. Visitors can also explore Redmen Hall, a historic building used for local events and performances. Skamokawa is a destination for those looking to experience the quiet beauty of the Columbia River and the region’s rich cultural history.
Rosburg
Location and History
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 700
- Zip Codes: 98643
- Latitude: 46.2457° N
- Longitude: 123.3986° W
Rosburg is a small, rural community located along the Columbia River in Wahkiakum County, just east of Skamokawa. The town is named after local settler and businessman Rosburg, who arrived in the area in the mid-19th century and helped develop the region’s agricultural and timber industries. Although Rosburg’s population has remained small, it has long been an important stop for travelers along the river, due to its strategic location along U.S. Route 4. The town remains primarily residential and agricultural, with an economy based on timber, farming, and fishing. Over the years, Rosburg has become a quiet community with a strong connection to the river and the surrounding natural environment.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rosburg is served by the Wahkiakum School District, which includes Rosburg Elementary School. Major landmarks in the area include The Rosburg Grange Hall, which serves as a community hub for local events, meetings, and celebrations. The Columbia River, which runs near the town, provides residents and visitors with opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities. The Rosburg Community Park offers green spaces for picnics, sports, and recreational activities. Additionally, nearby Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-tailed Deer offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching, as well as hiking and environmental education. Rosburg’s natural beauty, its access to the Columbia River, and its rural character make it a peaceful place to live and visit.
Altoona
Location and History
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150
- Zip Codes: 98602
- Latitude: 46.2020° N
- Longitude: 123.5266° W
Altoona is a small unincorporated community located near the mouth of the Columbia River in Wahkiakum County. It was established in the late 1800s as a river port and was once a key location for the shipping of goods, especially lumber, from the surrounding forested areas. Altoona grew as a logging town, serving as a center for logging operations and serving the needs of local residents and workers. Over time, the economy shifted away from timber and shipping, and the community became much smaller. Today, Altoona is a quiet, largely residential community, offering a secluded, rural lifestyle for those who appreciate the natural beauty of the Columbia River.
Major Schools and Landmarks
As an unincorporated community, Altoona does not have its own school district; instead, children attend schools in nearby areas, such as those in Wahkiakum School District. Altoona’s landmark features include the Columbia River, which provides recreational opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Altoona Park, located along the river, offers a peaceful place for picnicking and enjoying the natural surroundings. The Columbia River Scenic Byway runs through the area, offering scenic views of the river, the surrounding hills, and the Pacific coastline. Although small, Altoona is a popular destination for those seeking quiet, riverside living and access to outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking.