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Our History

The Port of Camas-Washougal was founded in 1935 by a vote of the people. Its mission is to strengthen and diversify the existing economic base of the port district here in Clark County, Washington. The port provides facilities and services for land, air, and water-based commerce in order to enhance employment and recreational opportunities, contributing to the quality of life in the community.

  • 1935

    Port of Camas-Washougal is established by a vote of the people.

    1938

    First property is acquired: Tidelands – purchase price: $300.

    1940

    Marina is established; small boat moorage lease rate is $1 per month.

    1945

    Ward Grove begins development of airstrip north of Camas; future “Grove Field”.

    1954

    Marina grows to accommodate up to 150 vessels.

    1957

    Declaration of intention to build Industrial Park.

    1962

    Port purchases airstrip; Ward Grove remains airfield caretaker.

    1966

    Flood protectionlevee completed by Army Corps of Engineers.

    1968

    Van Vleet family sells land to Port – includes site of future historical park.

    1971

    Advanced Drainage Systems begins 40+ year tenancy in Industrial Park.

    1978

    Port purchases remaining airfield property and paves the taxiways.

    1980

    Major snowstorm collapses Marina; dozens of vessels sink.

    1984

    Airfield officially named “Grove Field” by Port Commission.

    1986

    Dedication of Parker’s Landing Historical Park.

    1996

    Columbia River flood impacts the Marina, levee and parks, cresting at 27+ feet.

    2002

    First annual Riverside Concert series held in August.

    2005

    Dedication of Capt. William Clark Park at Cottonwood Beach in honor of Capt. Clark and the site of Lewis & Clark’s Corps of Discovery 6-day encampment in 1806.

    2009

    Port earns “Clean Marina Award” from University of Washington SeaGrant Program.

    2010

    125-acre parcel formally titled “Steigerwald Commerce Center” by Port Commission.

    2011

    Formation of Camas-Washougal Economic Development Association.

    2012

    • A Year of Firsts: Steigerwald Commerce Center groundbreaking.
    • Named “Port of the Year” by Washington Public Ports Association.
    • Acquisition of 13.25 acres of waterfront property.

    2015

    Our 80th year! Look for construction of the waterfront park and trail, hangars at Grove Field Airport, and Bldg. 17 in Steigerwald Commerce Center.