La Center, WA

County: Clark

History

La Center, Washington

La Center, WA is a small town located in Clark County, Washington, United States. It was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Chinook and Klickitat people, who relied on the nearby Columbia River for sustenance and trade.

The area where La Center currently stands was first settled by pioneers in the mid-1800s. In 1852, a group of men established a trading post and named it "La Centre" after the town of La Centre, Quebec in Canada. Over time, the spelling of the town's name was changed to La Center.

In the late 19th century, La Center became a prominent farming community, known for its fertile soil and excellent agriculture. The construction of a railroad in the 1870s improved transportation and further contributed to the town's growth and development.

The early 20th century brought various changes and challenges to La Center. The introduction of the automobile revolutionized transportation, and the once-thriving railroad declined in importance. The Great Depression of the 1930s affected the town's economy, but La Center managed to survive and slowly recover.

Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, La Center remained a small agricultural town. However, in the 1990s, plans for a nearby tribal casino called ilani began to take shape. Ilani Casino Resort opened its doors in 2017, becoming a significant economic driver for the area.

Today, La Center is a mix of its agricultural roots and the modern development spurred by the casino. The town retains its small-town charm while benefiting from increased tourism and business opportunities. It continues to be a peaceful community surrounded by beautiful landscapes and remains a pleasant place to live and visit.

Attractions

The Last Frontier Casino

The Last Frontier Casino

A popular casino offering various gaming options, live entertainment, and dining options.

La Center Historical Museum

A small museum showcasing the history and culture of La Center and the surrounding area.

Lewis River Golf Course

A scenic golf course offering 18 holes of golf in a peaceful setting.

Lewis River Park

A beautiful park along the Lewis River, offering picnic areas, walking trails, fishing spots, and a playground.

East Fork Lewis River

A picturesque river where visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and rafting.

La Center Bottoms

A nature reserve and wildlife habitat, offering opportunities for bird-watching and nature exploration.

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad

A historic steam train ride through the scenic countryside of north Clark County.

The Cedars on Salmon Creek

A recreational and event center offering activities such as golf, disc golf, and horseback riding.

Battle Ground Lake State Park

Located nearby, this state park features a lake for swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking trails.

Northwood Public House & Brewery

A local brewery and restaurant offering craft beers, tasty food, and a cozy atmosphere.

Climate

La Center, Washington has a temperate oceanic climate. Summers are typically mild and dry, while winters are cool and wet. The average high temperatures in summer range from the mid-70s°F (mid-20s°C) to the low 80s°F (high 20s°C), with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures into the 90s°F (30s°C). The nights are usually cooler, with temperatures in the 50s°F (10-15°C).

During the winter months, La Center experiences cool and damp conditions. High temperatures range from the low to mid-40s°F (around 5-8°C), with some colder spells dropping temperatures below freezing. Precipitation is frequent, with December being the wettest month, receiving around 6-7 inches (15-18 cm) of rainfall.

Spring and fall are mild transitional seasons, with temperatures gradually warming up or cooling down. These seasons see moderate rainfall, with occasional bouts of heavy showers. Overall, La Center's climate is characterized by a relatively mild and comfortable year-round temperature range and moderate precipitation.

Neighborhoods

La Center, WA is a small town located in Clark County, Washington. It is primarily a residential community with a population of around 3,000 people. While the town itself is relatively small, there are a few different neighborhoods and areas within La Center that are worth mentioning.

Downtown

The heart of La Center is its historic downtown area. It is a charming district with a few local businesses, restaurants, and shops. The downtown area has a small-town feel and is a gathering place for residents to socialize and connect.

South La Center

Located south of downtown, this area is primarily residential. It consists of various housing options, including single-family homes and some apartment complexes. Residents in this area enjoy easy access to amenities in downtown, as well as nearby parks and recreational facilities.

East La Center

This neighborhood is situated towards the eastern side of town. It is a mix of residential and commercial areas, with a few local businesses and services scattered throughout. East La Center is also close to the Interstate 5, which offers convenient access to neighboring cities and amenities.

North La Center

As the name suggests, this area is located to the north of downtown. It is mostly residential and features a mix of newer developments and older homes. North La Center offers a quieter atmosphere away from the town center while still being within easy reach of amenities.

Rural Areas

Surrounding the town of La Center, there are also rural areas with larger properties and a more countryside feel. Many residents in these areas enjoy a quieter and more secluded lifestyle, often with larger lots and more privacy.

Overall, La Center, WA offers a variety of neighborhoods and areas to suit different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you prefer a small-town atmosphere, easy access to amenities, or a more rural setting, there are options available within this quaint community.

Nearby Cities