Map of Southwest Washington

Description: This map shows cities, towns, counties, railroads, interstate highways, U.S. highways, state highways, main roads, secondary roads, rivers, lakes, airports, national parks, state parks, scenic byways, colleges, ski areas, rest areas, and points of interest in Southwest Washington.

Southwest Washington is a region in the southwestern corner of Washington State, generally encompassing Clark, Cowlitz, Skamania, Wahkiakum, and Pacific counties. The region is bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Columbia River to the south (forming the border with Oregon), and extends north to include areas south of Olympia. It represents a transition zone between the urbanized Puget Sound region and rural coastal and interior areas.

Geography and Climate

The region's geography is diverse, ranging from the Pacific coastline to the Cascade Range foothills. The Columbia River dominates the southern portion, serving as a major waterway and defining boundary. Mount St. Helens, an active volcano that erupted catastrophically in 1980, is located in Skamania County within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

The climate varies from coastal maritime conditions with mild, wet winters and cool summers to more continental patterns inland. Precipitation is substantial, particularly in western areas, decreasing somewhat in the eastern portions and river valleys.

Major Cities and Population Centers

Vancouver is the region's largest city and the fourth-largest in Washington State. Located directly across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon, Vancouver functions as part of the Portland metropolitan area while maintaining its distinct identity. The city has experienced significant growth and development. Longview, situated on the Columbia River in Cowlitz County, serves as another important urban center with a history tied to the timber industry. Smaller communities include Kelso, Battle Ground, Camas, Washougal, and Woodland.

Economy

The regional economy has historically relied on natural resource industries, particularly timber harvesting, lumber production, and paper manufacturing. These industries remain present but have diminished in economic importance. Clark County's economy has diversified significantly, benefiting from its connection to the Portland metropolitan area. Manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and professional services now dominate employment sectors.

The absence of a state income tax in Washington, combined with the absence of sales tax in Oregon, creates unique cross-border shopping and employment patterns. Many residents work in Oregon but live in Washington to benefit from tax advantages. Agriculture, including dairy farming, berry cultivation, and vegetable production, occurs in rural areas. Tourism related to Mount St. Helens and outdoor recreation contributes to the economy, though less significantly than in other Washington regions.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Interstate 5 serves as the primary north-south transportation corridor, connecting Portland to Olympia and Seattle. Interstate 205 provides an alternative route through Vancouver. State Route 14 follows the Columbia River, offering scenic access to the Columbia River Gorge. The region is served by the Port of Vancouver USA, which handles significant cargo volumes. Bridge crossings over the Columbia River, including the Interstate 5 Bridge, are critical links between Washington and Oregon, though capacity constraints have generated controversy regarding replacement plans.

Mount St. Helens

The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens was one of the most significant volcanic events in U.S. history, killing 57 people and causing massive environmental and economic damage. The eruption dramatically altered the landscape, destroying forests and filling valleys with debris. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument was established in 1982 to preserve the area for research, recreation, and education. The volcano remains active and continues to attract scientific study and tourism. Visitor centers and viewpoints provide access to observe the crater and blast zone.

Demographics

The region's population is concentrated in Clark County, which has grown rapidly in recent decades due to its proximity to Portland. The population is predominantly white, though diversity is increasing, particularly in Vancouver. Hispanic and Latino populations have grown substantially. The region contains both suburban areas with newer development and rural communities with agricultural or resource extraction heritage. Income levels vary, with Clark County generally more affluent due to employment connections to the Portland metropolitan area.

Regions of Washington State