The first and only view many people ever see of the Washougal River is where it enters the Columbia River along Highway 14. The mill stands behind, a megalith of industry, spewing the stink known as the Camas perfume into the air. Power lines crisscross above your head. Camas and Washougal’s sewage treatment facilities line the road. The water looks lethargic and murky. Not the prettiest sight.

But there is a different Washougal River you may not know.

The Washougal River I know is a series of cascading falls, rapids, and eddies that flow freely down its 33 mile length, fed by natural springs, ground water, and melting spring snows. The name Washougal is as murky as its end — no one truly knows what the probably mispronounced native term means. Some report “washougally” as meaning “little gravel” or “rushing water.” Both names are equally appropriate. There are a lot of rocks in this fast moving river.

The water’s force is apparent as you head up the Washougal River Road. Even at its lowest levels, the river impresses. A sense of freedom is heightened by relaxed summer days spent exploring the fun, sometimes awe-inspiring swimming holes, falls and rapid runs. During the winter, professional, experienced kayakers shoot the swollen, overwhelming river. It is truly a sight to see. I encourage a winter drive to Dugan Falls after a lazy summer spent floating along in an inner tube. You will never look at this river the same way again. It is the only way to truly appreciate the changing face of a local free-running Northwest river.

Be prepared — this Clark/Skamania County jewel is populated with courteous Portlander hipsters fleeing the overcrowded Sandy River. It is also often populated with drunks. But it is time to reintroduce Clark County to the Washougal River, if for no other reason than to care for, maintain it, and set a new trend through the summer months. Bring your kids, your common sense, and your sunscreen — this is the summer you go back to the river!

Washougal River Swim Holes

Sandy Swimming Hole — Maintained park with restrooms, picnic tables, a great swimming hole, easy beach access, and a boat launch. Great place to go with the kids, lots of people on a hot day. (From SR-14, go left on 15th St. in Washougal, turn left on Shepard Road, and continue for about ½-1 mile.)

3-mile marker — A Department of Fish and Wildlife stop. You’ll need a parking permit here, but the swim is worth it! There’s plenty of swimming here, big trees and sun. Did I mention it is the last public bathroom for 5 miles? Hmmmm… (Follow the River Road to about the 3-mile marker. F&W signs mark the spot.)

7-mile marker/Big Eddy — One of the best places for kids, adults and teens alike. Giant pool, rope swing, rapids for inner-tube, little fishies, and a very cold creek. (Follow the River Road to just past the 7-mile marker, white gate and big pull out marks the spot).

Public Fishing Hole — Fish & Wildlife maintained, Parking decal required, second most awesomest place on the river—pools, baby rapids, sun, trees and a bathroom. Easy access! (Follow River Road to just after 8-mile marker. Look for Public Fishing Hole sign. Buy a decal, wardens patrol regularly).
(The Washougal River Mercantile is your last bastion of civilization past this point. Get gas, food, whatever here, because you won’t see it again for a LONG time. Like never, or until Hockinson, whichever comes first.)

Dugan Falls Rec Area — This is the crown jewel of the true Washougal River experience. A huge falls that pours into a series of clear, cold pools. Bring the kids to the lower parts where the water is slower and less deep. The deep pools and water fall is amazing with a snorkel. Beware of the second falls. Enjoy the smooth stone here. (Follow the Washougal River Road for 21 miles. Signs mark the spot. Once you’ve reached the gravel you’re there.)

Naked Falls — It’s water, it’s naked, it’s falling. Skinny dippers delight! Ergo, naked. (Follow River Road to Dugan Falls, veer right at the fork in the road, follow river over two bridges. Falls is visible on the left).

Carl Rock — This place was named for a fearful Portlander we saw scale the cliff, but was too scared to jump in. He stood, trapped on the rock for ten hours until dusk. Too weak, he finally jumped in. He was sooo burnt. There’s a 30-45 ft. cliff with a series of jump spots into a very deep, clear pool. Super fun! (Follow River Road past Dugan, over the two bridges again, past Naked Falls, around the corner on the left).

Other Places — The East Fork of the Lewis River is full of awesome spots to check out, too. Don’t forget Daybreak Park, Moulton Falls, and the Grist Mill (thanks Michele!) Check out the rope swing at Heritage Park on Lacamas Lake. Thanks to Jaws and Jason movies, I avoid places where I cannot see my own feet like the plague. Have fun, get out, and explore!