Camas, Washington, derives its name from the Camas Lily, a plant celebrated for its clusters of deep blue flowers and significant role in the diet and culture of the Native American tribes in the Columbia River Valley. The Camas Lily, resembling a hyacinth, thrived in meadows and marshes and was eagerly harvested by the indigenous people during mid-summer.

The bulbs of the Camas Lily were a vital food source, prepared using traditional methods that involved cooking them in primitive baking pits. The bulbs were wrapped in swamp grass and placed in pits lined with hot stones. Once cooked and dried, the bulbs were ground into flour, which was then used to make bread. Additionally, when boiled, the bulbs produced a sweet molasses, highly valued for special festival occasions. This versatile plant was known to the Native Americans as "KAMASS."

The historical significance of the Camas Lily extends beyond its nutritional value. It represents the deep connection between the indigenous people and their environment, highlighting their resourcefulness and cultural heritage. Today, the city of Camas honors this legacy through its name, preserving the memory of the plant that once played a central role in the lives of the Native American communities in the region.

By embracing its historical roots, Camas, Washington, continues to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and traditions associated with the Camas Lily, reflecting a deep respect for the natural environment and the history of its earliest inhabitants.