The city of Camas, Washington, wasn't always called Camas. Back in 1883, it was officially established as LaCamas, a name inspired by the nearby LaCamas Lake and the fields of blooming camas lilies that colored the landscape every spring. This floral namesake reflected the area's deep connection to the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty and its early history.

But by 1894, the U.S. Postal Service decided the "La" had to go. Why? The name was too similar to other Washington towns like LaCenter and LaConner, causing frequent mail mix-ups. Letters meant for LaCamas often ended up dozens of miles away, frustrating both residents and postal workers. To solve the problem — and make addresses simpler — the town's official name was shortened to Camas.

While the postal service made the change on paper, the people of LaCamas weren't ready to say goodbye. Many locals kept using the original name for years, proudly writing "LaCamas" on letters, storefronts, and business documents. The identity was so deeply rooted that, even today, you can still see it in place names like LaCamas Lake, LaCamas Creek, and LaCamas Park.

This subtle but important name change tells the story of a community that holds tightly to its heritage. In many ways, Camas has managed to modernize without losing its historical roots, preserving the charm and character that first drew settlers — and later, residents from across the country — to this scenic corner of Southwest Washington.

The camas lily isn't just a pretty wildflower — it's a living piece of history. Blooming from late April to early June, the Camassia quamash thrives in moist meadows and lakeside areas around Camas, WA, just as it did hundreds of years ago. For the Native American tribes of the Pacific Northwest, camas bulbs were an essential food source, roasted or boiled into a naturally sweet dish.

Today, the flower remains a symbol of resilience and connection to the land. Its bloom season draws nature lovers, hikers, and photographers from across the region, and you can still find sweeping fields of camas flowers in and around LaCamas Lake Regional Park.

The persistence of the LaCamas name in modern landmarks is more than just nostalgia — it's a celebration of heritage. Locals take pride in their town's history, from the indigenous traditions tied to the camas lily to the pioneering settlers who built a community here.

Keeping the LaCamas name alive in schools, parks, and annual events not only honors the past but also gives residents and visitors a sense of place. Whether you're kayaking on LaCamas Lake, hiking the trails of LaCamas Park, or attending a local festival, you're participating in a tradition that stretches back well over a century.