Home to approximately 21000 residents the City of Camas is in east Clark County along the banks of the majestic Columbia River and is about 20 miles east from Portland. The city is named after the camas lily a plant with an onion-like bulb prized by Native Americans.
From its origins over 100 years ago as a paper-mill town this small city has become a big player for several international companies such as Sharp Microelectronics and Sharp Labs of America Linear Technology Wafer Tech Underwriters Laboratories Hewlett-Packard and others. Over the years Camas has maintained its identity and vision and has expanded developed and successfully blended a mix of cultures and values. These ideals have sparked diverse economic growth and the development of livable family-oriented neighborhoods. Meanwhile Camas has protected its open-space and other recreational amenities. Camas has maintained the balance of jobs housing and recreation preserving a high quality of life for its residents.
The influx of white collar jobs has contributed to a thriving Downtown Camas which features a unique drive-through downtown core. The older downtown buildings have been preserved and are utilized by businesses to make this a busy community center. Trees and planter areas on this street make the downtown mall a beautiful and appealing place to visit and shop.
Downtown Camas and its surrounding parks play host to a number of community events throughout the year such as the Mother’s Day Plant Fair & Health and Safety Fair The CamTown Youth Festival at Crown Park and Camas Days in July. Residents of Camas also enjoy downtown’s Boo Bash and its popular Hometown Holidays event on the First Friday on December. With a downtown as accessible and desirable as Camas it only makes sense to hold “Camas First Fridays” which occur throughout the year on each first Friday of the month and include art exhibits dining and themed shopping events.
Prune Hill is an ancient and dormant volcanic hill which was named for prune orchards which once inhabited the hill. This area has become a destination for large homes providing expansive views of downtown Portland and surrounding areas including beautiful views of Mt. Hood. North of downtown is Lacamas Lake which is popular with hiking fishing and boating enthusiasts. The Lacamas Lake area is noted for its unique and beautiful wild lilies.
City of Camas: 360-817-7013 www.cityofcamas.us
Camas Washougal Chamber of Commerce: 360-834-2472 www.cwchamber.com
