The park's name originates from the 'camas' bulb, a staple food source for local Indigenous tribes that still blooms in the meadows.
The Pothole Falls were created by historical water erosion acting on the region's ancient basalt lava flows.
The park provides a nesting habitat for the great blue heron, which can often be seen near the wetlands at the north end of Round Lake.
The trails connect directly to the adjacent Heritage Trail, extending the regional walking network significantly beyond the park's primary boundaries.
The park contains remnants of an old timber flume system that once supported the local lumber industry in the early 20th century.
Lacamas Park is a 312-acre regional park in Camas, Washington, defined by its dense conifer forest and extensive trail system surrounding Lacamas Lake and Round Lake. The park features the Lacamas Creek trail, which leads to the Pothole Falls, a series of rocky cascades formed by volcanic basalt formations. Hikers can access over 12 miles of trails, including the Heritage Trail that offers views of the lake's shoreline. The area is a designated wildlife habitat, hosting waterfowl, bald eagles, and great blue herons. During spring, the park is notable for its native camas lily blooms, from which the city derives its name. The terrain varies from gentle shoreline paths to moderately steep wooded inclines. Multiple wooden footbridges cross the creek, providing vantage points for salmon spawning during seasonal migrations. The park serves as a primary hub for local recreation, including birdwatching and regional cross-country training. It is managed by Clark County Public Works.
The wooden bridge overlooking Pothole Falls.
Bring waterproof footwear if visiting in late fall or winter, as trails near the creek frequently become muddy.
Use the trails on the east side of Round Lake for quieter, less crowded hiking experiences.
Check local water quality reports before swimming, as occasional blue-green algae blooms can occur in Lacamas Lake during late summer.
Avoid parking on residential streets near the park entrances, as local enforcement is frequent; use the designated public parking lots.
Leash your dogs at all times to protect local wildlife and ensure trail safety for others.
