Discover Oregon Treasures in South Columbia County

St. Helens, Scappoose, Columbia City, Warren and Deer Island

Discover hidden treasures tucked throughout South Columbia County. Around every corner lies a wealth of surprises. Seek out wildlife along the Columbia River. Enjoy the quaint shops. Enrich your mind with national and local history. Search for the secrets that abound, as you discover the treasures along the rivers, through the towns and down the paths of Columbia County.

Over sixty miles of the Columbia River grace the north and east boundaries of the county, the longest stretch in the state of Oregon. Discover your secret fishing hole or encounter an eagle as you slip through the water in a kayak or canoe. Experience beautiful trails for hiking & biking along the water or through the trees.

Explore Sauvie Island and walk on the same land as Meriwether Lewis & William Clark during their journey to discover the Pacific Ocean. Or stand on Sand Island and look out over the Columbia River at the same sites recorded in Lewis & Clark’s journals. You’ll find the same plant life that they identified those many years ago or catch a glimpse of the wildlife, including eagles, beaver & deer.

Established in 1844 and incorporated in 1889, the Olde Towne portion of St. Helens, near the riverfront, features a Nationally Registered Historic District encompassing 10 blocks, which includes residences and civic buildings dating back nearly a century. The County Courthouse was built in 1906 out of basalt rock, a major industry of the area in the early 1900’s. Additional historic interests in the area include the Watts House in Scappoose and the Caples House in nearby Columbia City and the renovated Train Depot in St. Helens, which houses the Chamber of Commerce and the Historical Society of Columbia County. A walking map can be obtained from the Historical Society of Columbia County of historical buildings in St. Helens.   The map and other brochures and information about the area can be found at the Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center.