Camas, Washington

Welcome to Camas, Washington

The naming of “Camas”.  Blossoming with clusters of showy deep blue flowers, something like a hyacinth in habit, the Camas Lily was eagerly sought by Columbia river valley Indians, since its bulb was an important part of their diet.  Grown in meadows and marshes, it was harvested in mid-summer and prepared for eating, cooking in primitive baking pits, first being wrapped in swamp grass before contact with hot stones.  When the cooked bulbs were dry, they were reduced to a flour from which bread could be made.  When boiled in water, the bulbs yielded a molasses that was treasured for use on important festival occasions.  Indians called the flower the KAMASS. (source unknown) . Today’s downtown theme consists of flower baskets, trees and landscape flower beds. New lighting was installed in 2001 and has been a welcomed enhancement.  The industrial base has changed dramatically from a small “mill town” base to a thriving industrial park which benefits for its close proximity to the Portland International Airport, Columbia River, and surrounding large Metro area. The Downtown Camas Association has a website which helps you find out about the many benefits of downtown Camas! Click here to go to www.downtowncamas.com