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Stevenson planning commission delays decision on proposed campground, requests more documentation
Summary
The Planning Commission postponed action on Conditional Use Permit CUP-2025-003, which would allow up to 17 primitive campsites at 365 Foster Creek Road, after commissioners said they lacked a current staff report and sought conditions addressing fire safety, parking, and density.
The Stevenson Planning Commission on April 13 postponed a decision on Conditional Use Permit CUP-2025-003, a proposal to add up to 17 primitive campsites on a 3.2-acre property at 365 Foster Creek Road that is also used as a commercial nursery. Commissioner Charles Hales moved to delay the hearing to the May 2026 meeting; Commissioner Anne Keesee seconded. The motion passed with Vice‑Chair Auguste Zettler, Hales and Keesee voting aye; Commissioner Anthony Lawson did not provide a vote but said he was disappointed the commission did not decide that night.
Commissioners and staff discussed a recently updated site plan and fire marshal comments requiring restroom facilities, water spigot locations, and specifics for road design and well flow. Skamania County Planner Mandy Hertel said those fire-marshal‑level conditions "cannot be made less restrictive." Commissioners focused on four condition areas to examine further — use of generators, length of stay, parking, and campsite density — and asked staff to provide supporting documentation before May. Public commenters during the hearing raised safety and infrastructure concerns, including the Skamania Lodge general manager's statements citing "fire risk, traffic and pedestrian safety, and land use compatibility."
