Skamania County

Skamania County spreads along the Columbia River Gorge and is dominated by dense forests that cover nearly all the land. The Gifford Pinchot National Forest makes up the bulk of this terrain, creating a continuous landscape of river canyons and wooded valleys.

The county was established in 1854 from parts of Clark County and takes its name from a Cascades Chinook word meaning swift waters. This naming reflects how much the river has shaped life in this region since the beginning.

The region shows strong ties to Native American heritage through sites and gatherings that remain part of daily life here. These traditions are woven into how the land is used and remembered by those who live along the river.

The area is great for hiking, camping, and outdoor activities throughout the wooded landscape. Visitors should come prepared for hilly terrain and plan visits with the seasons in mind, as winter weather can make some roads difficult to travel.

The area passed a law in 1969 that officially protects Bigfoot from harm within its boundaries. This unusual decision makes it one of the few places in the country where this legendary forest creature has legal protection.

Location: Washington

Inception: 1854

Capital city: Stevenson

Shares border with: Lewis County, Yakima County, Klickitat County, Hood River County, Multnomah County, Clark County, Cowlitz County

Website: http://skamaniacounty.org

GPS coordinates: 46.03000,-121.91000

Latest update: December 6, 2025 22:03