Camas is a city in Clark County, Washington, situated along the Columbia River in the state's southwestern corner, directly across from the Portland metropolitan area. It borders Washougal to the east and Vancouver to the west, forming part of a continuous urbanized corridor along the river. The city's name derives from "LaCamas," a reference to the camas lily and the region's Native American heritage; the "La" was eventually dropped to avoid confusion with La Center and La Conner. For more than a century, Camas has been defined by its paper mill. The large Georgia-Pacific mill at the west end of downtown has operated continuously for more than 140 years, and it gave Camas High School its sports nickname, the Papermakers. The mill's water supply is carried by a 7,000-foot aqueduct built from Round Lake to the mill site—locally known as the "mill ditch"—which remains in use more than a century later, a testament to the city's industrial continuity. Today Camas is far more than a mill town. Its historic downtown has been revitalized into a walkable district of shops, restaurants, and community events, and the city has grown to a population of roughly 26,000. Recreation centers on Lacamas Park, a 312-acre park with Lacamas Lake and Round Lake offering fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, connected to the Lacamas Heritage Trail along the lake's south shore and a six-mile network of scenic trails. Camas is consistently recognized as one of the best places in Clark County to raise a family, a reputation built on strong schools, a family-oriented community, and abundant outdoor access. Its location between Vancouver and Washougal places residents within commuting distance of both the Portland metro and the Columbia River Gorge, making Camas a distinctive blend of industrial heritage, small-town charm, and Pacific Northwest recreation.