Our Community
Clark County, Washington covers more than 656 square miles, which includes a large stretch of river frontage along the banks of the mighty Columbia River. Clark County, WA took its name in honor of William Clark of the renowned Lewis and Clark Expedition. Created in 1845 by the provisional government of the Oregon Territory, Clark County once encompassed the entire state of WA.
According to the Census 2000 data, Clark County was home to 345,238 residents; however, 2005 estimates show the current population at more than 403,000. Clark County, Washington ranks among the fastest growing area in WA and the Portland, Oregon metropolitan region. The largest urban areas located within Clark County include Camas, Orchards, Salmon Creek, Vancouver and Washougal.
Vancouver, population 143,560, is the county seat as well as the largest city in Clark County. Located on the north shore of the Columbia River, Vancouver, WA acts as a bedroom community for Portland, Oregon, which lies on the opposite side of Columbia River. Vancouver has a diverse cultural atmosphere and is home to a wide range of interesting sites, such as the Cascades Volcano Observatory and the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge.
Clark County, WA residents enjoy a centralized location with convenient access to major transportation routes. These include the I-5 and I-205, which residents utilize as a commuter route to and from Portland. In addition, several area ports, located at Camas-Washougal, Ridgefield and Vancouver, provide vital services to their affiliated industrial parks and the surrounding area. The wholesale and retail trade and service sectors currently lead the financial market in growth. Fred Meyer Stores, the Southwest Washington Medical Center and the Vancouver School District are all among the top employers in Clark County, WA.
Clark County’s natural terrain and sites, along with numerous rural and urban parks provide a wide range of outdoor activities year round. Clark County, Washington has more than 40 miles along the scenic Columbia River and access to several beautiful lakes and falls. History buffs also find Clark County full of interesting sites. Popular historic destinations include Cedar Creek Grist Mill, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Lewis and Clark Railroad, North Clark Historical Museum and the Pomeroy Living History Farm. In addition, many of the communities offer civic and social activities and celebrations such as the Clark County Fair and the Fourth of July Festival.
Clark County affords its residents living styles that range from the large urban areas to the smaller, pastoral communities. Clark Count, Washington y features a low cost of living and the benefit of not having a State Income Tax deducted from their paychecks. This family-friendly region also takes great pride in education. Public schools have excellent funding and there are also several private schools from which to choose. Clark College and Washington State University at Vancouver provide outstanding options for higher education, while additional choices are a reasonable driving distance away in Portland.
Clark County, Washington lies along the Columbia River with spectacular views of the Cascade Mountains. Such natural splendor blends well with a moderate climate and four full seasons to create a lovely place to call home. With its wide range of opportunities for business and recreation, Clark County has something everyone can enjoy.
