Recreation

Mount St Helens

As the gateway to the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, over two million visitors a year are expected to view the incredible spectacle of the aftermath of the Mount St. Helens eruption and the rebirth of the area around it.

There are five visitor centers along the Spirit Lake Memorial Highway that leads into the blast zone, each with interesting displays explaining the events that occurred before, during and after the May 18th, 1980 eruption.

The Kelso Longview area offers ample opportunity to enjoy both indoor and outdoor recreation.

ANTIQUE SHOPS

Timeless treasures await discovery at local antique shops.

BOATING

Launch your boat for a day of excitement in any one of the area’s large bodies of water.

BOWLING

There are several bowling alleys for those who prefer this relaxing indoor sport.

CAMPING

Cowlitz County offers a variety of interesting campsites within minutes of the Kelso Longview area.

FISHING

Sport fishing is relished by many.  A boat launch is provided on both the Cowlitz and Columbia Rivers for your fishing convenience.  Every year during the months of January and February, smelt can be dipped from the Cowlitz River.

GOLF

Two 18-hole public courses and two driving ranges in the Kelso Longview area and a number of courses within a short drive of the area provide ample opportunity for golfers.  Due to the moderate climate, the area is ideal for year-round golfing.

HISTORICAL BUILDINGS

There are 17 buildings in Longview that are listed on the National Register of Historical Places and/or the Longview Register. 

PARKS

Our Park and Recreation Department maintains over 400 acres of public parks at 21 locations.  This includes 21 softball, baseball and soccer sites featuring playground equipment for children.

LAKE SACAJAWEA

In the center of Longview, is the perfect opportunity for walking, jogging or biking.  This beautiful, peaceful setting is the ideal spot to take a picnic lunch and let the kids play on one of the playgrounds provided or feed the ducks that dwell there.

ROLLER SKATING & ROLLER BLADING

Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of indoor roller-skating.  Or, try outdoor skateboarding or rollerblading at Cloney Park.

SHOPPING

Longview offers a variety of shopping experiences from unique specialty stores to mall and shopping centers.

SWIMMING

In addition to the many indoor facilities available, the local rivers and lakes provide additional refreshment.

TENNIS & RACQUET BALL

Mint Valley Racquet Complex has four indoor tennis courts in addition to the numerous outdoor facilities located in various parks throughout the community.

THEATERS

Enjoy the latest movie at one of the several local theaters, which include a multi-cinema theater.  Or you may wish to attend a live production at one of the many venues that host a variety of productions.

WATER SKIING & WIND SURFING

The Columbia River provides plenty of wind and water for summer aquatic enthusiasts.