National Register Listing

Government Mineral Springs Guard Station

a.k.a. GMS Guard Station #1051

End of FS Rd. 3065 off of Wind R. Hwy., Mt. Adams Ranger Dist., Gifford Pinchot NF, WA
Local significance:
Architecture; Conservation; Entertainment/recreation

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2017.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The Skagit River in northwestern Washington is home to one of the largest wintering bald eagle populations in the continental United States, with up to 400 eagles gathering there during the peak of the season.
Washington random facts
Skamania County, located in the southwestern corner of Washington state, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Upper Chinook, Klickitat, and Cascades tribes. These tribes relied on the abundant natural resources of the region, including fish from the Columbia River, for their sustenance.

In the early 19th century, European settlers began to explore and settle in the area. The Lewis and Clark expedition passed through in 1805, documenting the beauty and resources of the region. During this time, the fur trade became an important industry in Skamania County, with fur trappers establishing trading posts along the Columbia River.

The mid-19th century saw an influx of pioneers and settlers attracted to the area by the Oregon Trail. The discovery of gold in the 1850s further fueled population growth, leading to the establishment of mining towns like Stevenson. However, Skamania County's gold rush was relatively short-lived, as the easily accessible gold deposits quickly ran out.

By the late 19th century, timber became the dominant industry in Skamania County. The vast forests attracted lumber companies, and logging camps began to emerge throughout the area. The town of Carson, located in the heart of Skamania County, became a significant timber hub, with sawmills and other related industries driving the local economy.

Today, Skamania County continues to be known for its breathtaking natural beauty and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Its history of Native American heritage, exploration, fur trade, gold rush, and logging has shaped the area into a unique blend of industry and natural wonders. Whether exploring the Columbia River Gorge, hiking in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, or experiencing the local culture, Skamania County offers a captivating glimpse into the past and present of Washington state.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Skamania County, Washington.

  • 1805 - Skamania County is explored by the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
  • 1845 - Skamania County is established as one of the original nine counties in the Oregon Territory.
  • 1854 - Gold is discovered in Skamania County, leading to a period of rapid population growth.
  • 1889 - Skamania County becomes part of the newly-formed state of Washington.
  • 1902 - The town of Stevenson is incorporated, becoming the county seat of Skamania County.
  • 1933 - Construction of the Bonneville Dam begins, providing electricity and bringing economic growth to the area.
  • 1980 - The eruption of Mount St. Helens, located in Skamania County, devastates the surrounding area.
  • 2004 - The controversial Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization (BFRO) launches their annual Skamania County Bigfoot Expedition.