About Clackamas County

Clackamas cities host art festivals, historic sites, museums, and cultural centers, as well as public art and murals. Portland is the largest of the 14 incorporated entities in Clackamas County and Portland real estate consistently sees growth in property values.

Clackamas County is home to communities that suit all lifestyles. It's a popular choice for retirees, young families, and single professionals. Clackamas County has 14 incorporated communities.

Oregon City is the county seat of Clackamas County. It was incorporated as a city in 1844. This made it the first city west of the Rocky Mountains. This area was the hub for water transport on the Willamette River. It had been home to Indians, hunters, and trappers for many years.

In 1842, Oregon City saw its first major overland migration. Samuel Barlow, three years later, established an immigrant route from The Dalles around the south side Mt. Hood, and into Oregon City. During the 1840s, thousands of immigrants were brought to Oregon City and Clackamas by the Barlow Road. Oregon City was the dominant urban center of Clackamas County and dominated social and political life in Oregon. This was changed in 1852 when the territorial capital moved to Salem. Clackamas lost access to the Columbia River in 1854 with the creation of Multnomah Country.

In 1937, the Clackamas County Courthouse was built in Oregon City. It houses the state court-related offices. The majority of county offices are located in the Public Services Building and the Development Services Building. Both buildings are in the Hilltop neighborhood of Oregon City.