5 Essential Facts About Doc Harris Stadium: The Camas Football Mecca's 2025 Turf Revolution
Doc Harris Stadium in Camas, Washington, is far more than just a high school sports venue; it stands as a cherished and historic centerpiece of the community, embodying the spirit and pride of the Camas Papermakers. As of December 2025, the facility continues to serve as a hub for student athletics and major community events, but is also on the cusp of a significant, future-proofing upgrade that will cement its status as one of the premier high school stadiums in the Pacific Northwest. The deep history and current developments surrounding this iconic venue make it a must-know landmark for anyone following Washington state prep sports.
The stadium is renowned for its electric atmosphere, especially on Friday nights when the top-ranked Camas Papermakers football team takes the field. Located at 841 NE 22nd Ave, the facility is a testament to the community's dedication to its youth and athletic excellence, having undergone a massive modernization in the early 2010s. Now, with the Camas School District approving the next phase of critical infrastructure improvements, including a new playing surface, the "Camas Class" tradition will continue on a state-of-the-art field.
The Complete Biography of Dr. Arthur K. Harris: The Man Behind the Legacy
The stadium's name is a direct tribute to a true pillar of the Camas community: Dr. Arthur K. Harris. The naming of the football stadium in his honor in 1970 was a small gesture to recognize a lifetime of extraordinary service and dedication to the youth of Camas, Washington.
- Full Name: Dr. Arthur K. Harris
- Community Role: Physician and Community Pillar for over 50 years.
- Key Contribution: Dr. Harris was widely known for dedicating his personal time to giving free physicals to Camas High School students, ensuring the young athletes could safely participate in sports without financial burden.
- Civic Involvement: His commitment extended beyond medicine; he was a signatory on the official incorporation papers for the Camas Washougal Community Chest, an organization dedicated to supporting local non-profits.
- Legacy: His unwavering support for the school district and the community's young people earned him the lasting honor of having the stadium—the center of Camas athletic pride—named after him.
Dr. Harris's legacy is one of selfless service, a standard that the Camas School District and the entire community strive to uphold. The stadium is not just a place to play; it is a monument to community health and support.
The 2025 Turf Replacement Project: Securing the Future of the Papermakers' Field
The most immediate and critical update for Doc Harris Stadium is the approved replacement of the playing turf. The current artificial surface, installed during the major 2010 remodel, has reached the end of its useful life, necessitating a crucial upgrade to maintain player safety and field quality.
Why the Turf Upgrade is Essential
Artificial turf fields typically have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years before the fibers degrade, the infill compacts, and the shock absorption properties diminish. The Camas School District recognized the need for this renewal to prevent athlete injuries and ensure the facility meets modern safety standards. The new turf replacement at Doc Harris Stadium is part of a broader district initiative, which also includes replacing the turf at the Cardon Sports Complex.
Timeline and Specifications
The Camas School District has confirmed the replacement of the playing turf at Doc Harris Stadium as a priority project. The project is referenced in documents aligned with the WSDOT 2025 Standard Specification, indicating that the work is imminent or scheduled for the near future, ensuring the stadium remains a state-of-the-art facility for the Camas Papermakers.
A History of Excellence: From 1959 to the 4,000-Seat Colosseum
Doc Harris Stadium’s current structure is the result of a long history of community investment and strategic upgrades. The site of the stadium has been a center for Camas athletics for decades, with the original structure dating back to 1959.
The Landmark 2010 Remodel
The most transformative period for the stadium was the major renovation and expansion completed around 2010 and 2011. This project completely modernized the venue, turning it into the impressive facility seen today. The work was a collaborative effort, with Team Construction LLC completing the project for the Camas School District, and Kramer Gehlen & Associates, Inc. providing engineering expertise.
Key Features and Capacity
The 2010 remodel dramatically increased the stadium's capacity and functionality, making it a suitable venue for major playoff games and community events:
- Total Capacity: Approximately 4,000 spectators.
- Seating Breakdown: The home side features fully covered seating for 3,000 fans, with an additional 1,000 seats on the visitors side.
- Modern Amenities: The renovation included the installation of new field turf (scheduled for replacement in 2025), a modern track, updated lighting, new concession stands, contemporary locker rooms, and improved wheelchair accessibility and restrooms.
- Structure: The facility is a durable, steel and concrete framed structure, designed to last for decades.
The Home of Champions: Doc Harris Stadium and the 4A GSHL
Doc Harris Stadium is recognized across the state as one of the most difficult places for visiting teams to play, thanks to the passionate fan base and the consistent success of the home team. The stadium is the undisputed home of the Camas Papermakers, one of Washington's most dominant high school football programs.
The 4A Greater St. Helens League Powerhouse
The Papermakers compete in the highly competitive 4A Greater St. Helens League (GSHL), where they have consistently captured league titles, often with undefeated league seasons. The stadium is the site of intense rivalry games, including matchups against other 4A GSHL schools like Skyview High School, Union High School, and Battle Ground High School.
A Hub for State Playoffs
Due to its large capacity, excellent amenities, and central location in Clark County, Doc Harris Stadium is frequently selected to host Washington State 4A football playoff games, drawing fans from across the region. The stadium crew often works overtime to accommodate these special events, which underscores the facility's importance to the entire Southwest Washington sports community.
The atmosphere during playoff games is legendary, often referred to as the "Camas Class" experience, where the community's pride is on full display. The venue has hosted numerous quarterfinal and first-round state games, cementing its reputation as a place where champions are made and seasons are decided.
Beyond Football: Doc Harris Stadium as a Community Asset
While most famous for its Friday night lights, the stadium serves a much broader function for the Camas School District and the City of Camas. It is a multi-purpose athletic and civic facility used year-round.
- Track and Field: The modern track surrounding the field turf is a premier venue for regional track and field meets, hosting numerous high school events throughout the spring season.
- Community Events: The size and amenities of the stadium make it the ideal location for large-scale community gatherings, including the annual Camas High School graduation ceremonies, providing a memorable setting for students and families.
- Facility Rental: The facility is available for various community education and youth sports programs, allowing local organizations to benefit from the state-of-the-art playing surface and lighting.
Doc Harris Stadium continues to be a profound source of pride for the people of Camas. With the approved 2025 turf replacement project ensuring its quality for the next decade, the stadium remains a vital symbol of the community's commitment to its history, its athletes, and the enduring legacy of Dr. Arthur K. Harris.
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