Cowlitz County Map, Washington


Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: February 17, 2026, 14:47 ET

Map of Cowlitz County - Cowlitz County is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington. Cowlitz County Map showing cities, highways, important places and water bodies. Get Where is Cowlitz County located in the map, major cities in Cowlitz county, population, areas, and places of interest.

Map of Cowlitz County, Washington

Map of Cowlitz County, Washington

About Cowlitz County Map, Alabama: The map showing the county boundary, county seat, major cities, highways, water bodies and neighbouring counties.

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  • About Cowlitz County, Washington

    Cowlitz County is located in the southwestern part of Washington, United States. Established in 1854, the county was named after the Cowlitz Native American tribe. The county seat is Kelso, while Longview is the largest city and serves as the primary commercial and industrial center of the county.

    Population

    According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of Cowlitz County was 110,730 as recorded in the 2020 Census. The county has a mix of urban and rural communities, with most residents living in Longview and Kelso.

    Area and Geography

    According to the United States Census Bureau, Cowlitz County covers a total area of approximately 1,166 square miles, including about 1,140 square miles of land and 26 square miles of water. The county features river valleys, forested hills, and access to the Columbia River, which forms part of its southern boundary.

    Bordering Counties

    Cowlitz County shares borders with Lewis County to the north, Skamania County to the east, and Wahkiakum County to the west. The southern boundary meets the state of Oregon across the Columbia River.

    Major Cities and Communities

    The principal cities in Cowlitz County include Longview, Kelso, Castle Rock, and Woodland. Longview is the largest city and an important regional center for manufacturing and trade.

    Attractions and Recreation

    Cowlitz County offers access to outdoor recreation areas including the Columbia River waterfront and nearby forest lands. Mount St. Helens, located to the northeast of the county, draws visitors to the broader region for hiking and sightseeing. Parks, fishing areas, and river activities are popular throughout the county.

    Transportation

    Major transportation routes serving Cowlitz County include Interstate 5 and State Route 4, providing connections to Seattle, Portland, and other parts of the Pacific Northwest.

    Explore more counties in Washington Counties or view the complete USA States Map section for additional geographic information.

    Sources:

    Population and area data sourced from the United States Census Bureau (2020 Census). General county information referenced from the Official Cowlitz County Government Website.

    Facts about Cowlitz County, Washington

    CountryUnited States
    StateWashington
    RegionSouthwestern Washington
    County SeatKelso
    Named AfterCowlitz Tribe of Native Americans
    Established1854
    Organized1854
    Coordinates46.1910° N, 122.6950° W
    Total Area1,166 sq mi
    Land Area1,140 sq mi
    Water Area26 sq mi
    Population (2020)110,730
    Population RankMid-sized county in Washington
    Largest CityLongview
    Main IndustriesManufacturing, Forestry, Paper Products, Healthcare
    Major HighwaysInterstate 5, U.S. Route 30, State Route 432
    Time ZonePacific Time (UTC−08:00)
    Known ForColumbia River access, Timber industry, Mount St. Helens proximity
    Websitehttps://www.co.cowlitz.wa.us

    Top Attractions in Cowlitz County, Washington

    • Mount St. Helens (nearby) – Volcanic scenery and viewpoints.
    • Mount St. Helens Visitor Center – Eruption history exhibits.
    • Columbia River – Boating and river views.
    • Lake Sacajawea Park – Scenic lake and walking paths.
    • Tam O’Shanter Park – Riverfront recreation area.
    • Three Rivers Mall – Shopping and dining.
    • Cowlitz County Historical Museum – Local history exhibits.
    • Longview Downtown Riverfront – Parks and waterfront views.
    • Lewis River – Fishing and paddling.
    • Toutle River Valley – Volcanic landscape views.
    • Beacon Hill Scenic Drive – City and river overlooks.
    • Mineral Lake (nearby) – Quiet recreation lake.

    Cities & Towns in Cowlitz County, Washington

    Kelso, Longview, Woodland, Castle Rock, Toutle, Vader, Kalama, Cathlamet, Silver Lake, Ostrander