Cowlitz River Live Cam

History

The Cowlitz River, one of the most significant waterways in Washington State, holds deep historical, cultural, and ecological importance. Spanning approximately 105 miles, the river flows through the southwestern part of the state, connecting the Cascade Range to the Columbia River. Historically, the river has been an essential resource for both indigenous peoples and settlers, playing a vital role in the development of the region.

The Cowlitz River derives its name from the Cowlitz Tribe, one of the oldest and most established Native American groups in the Pacific Northwest. The Cowlitz people have relied on the river for centuries as a source of sustenance, transportation, and trade. The river’s salmon runs were crucial to the tribe’s way of life, providing food and playing a central role in their cultural practices. For the Cowlitz people, the river was much more than just a waterway—it was a spiritual and ecological lifeline that connected them to the land.