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Damascus, OR

Frequently asked questions

Damascus, OR

Damascus is a census-designated place and former city in Clackamas County, Oregon, United States. Established in 1867, it was incorporated in 2004 to enable local land use decision-making control by the community. Its residents voted to disincorporate in 2016, and, after a legal challenge, its disincorporation was completed in 2020. Damascus is located east of Happy Valley and Interstate 205 and west of Boring. The population was 11,050 residents as of the 2020 census.

According to Oregon Geographic Names, Damascus can date its existence as a community back to 1867, when a post office by that name was established. That post office was closed in 1904. The original heart of the community is along Oregon Route 212, which as of 2004 served as part of the city's southern boundary.

A 2000 decision by Metro to expand Portland's urban growth boundary into the area prompted some citizens of the community to submit Measure 3-138, a measure on the ballot for the 2004 general election in November. The initiative's passage resulted in the incorporation of the former unincorporated communities of Damascus and Carver into the City of Damascus, a step that prevented nearby cities from annexing the community. The city was the first new city in Oregon in 22 years.

Damascus sits 712 feet (217 m) above sea level. Located in the north-central part of Clackamas County, the former city's northern boundary was the Multnomah County line. Boring lies to the east, and Clackamas to the west. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city had a total area of 16.14 square miles (41.80 km²), of which, 16.04 square miles (41.54 km²) was land and 0.10 square miles (0.26 km²) was water.

Health and wellness are central to the lifestyle in Damascus, with numerous facilities and initiatives promoting residents' well-being. Adventist Health Primary Care - Damascus stands as a focal point for health-conscious individuals, offering fitness classes, wellness programs, and community health events. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Clackamas River Trail provides beautiful hiking and biking opportunities. Those interested in fitness classes can check out MUV Fitness in nearby Troutdale for a range of workout sessions. Yoga lovers will enjoy classes at Root Whole Body, which also provides wellness services like acupuncture and nutrition counseling. Mt. Scott Community Center features a pool, gym, and various fitness classes. Happy Valley Park is great for outdoor activities including jogging and sports. The North Clackamas Aquatic Park provides fun and fitness with its wave pool and water slides.

Top sites in Damascus, OR are Leach Botanical Garden, The Grotto, and Rocky Butte Natural Area.

Population: 10,888 (2023). ZIP codes: 97009, 97015, 97030, 97080, 97089. Area codes: 503, 971. Elevation: 712 ft (217 m). Area: 16.14 sq mi (41.80 km²).

FAQs

What is Damascus, OR known for?

The city is conveniently located near Highway 212, which connects to other towns and attractions in the area. Damascus embodies the beauty of the Pacific Northwest with its lush forests, scenic views, and proximity to the Clackamas River. Residents and visitors of Damascus can enjoy recreational activities like fishing, boating, and exploring the nearby Mt. Hood National Forest. The Best of Damascus includes a quaint downtown area, amazing outdoor recreation, and residential neighborhoods with picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.

What county is Damascus, OR or in?

Damascus is a census-designated place and former city in Clackamas County, Oregon, United States. Established in 1867, it was incorporated in 2004 in an effort to enable local land use decision-making control by the community. Its residents voted to disincorporate in 2016, and, after a legal challenge, its disincorporation was completed in 2020. Damascus is located east of Happy Valley and Interstate 205 and west of Boring. The population was 11,050 residents as of the 2020 census.

Is Damascus, OR a good place to live?

Damascus is in Clackamas County. Living in Damascus offers residents a rural feel and most residents own their homes. In Damascus, there are a lot of parks. Residents of Damascus tend to lean conservative. The public schools in Damascus are above average.

Sources

Wikipedia

Clackamas County

Living in Oregon

Niche

Leach Botanical Garden

The Grotto

Rocky Butte Natural Area

Adventist Health Primary Care - Damascus 

Clackamas River Trail

MUV Fitness

Root Whole Body

Mt. Scott Community Center

North Clackamas Aquatic Park

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.