Cities in Okanogan County, Washington

by btobers · Published November 10, 2022 · Updated November 13, 2024

Okanogan County, Washington, located in the north-central part of the state, is known for its vast landscapes, which include forests, rivers, and rolling hills along the Cascade Mountains. Established in 1888, it is the largest county by area in Washington and borders Canada to the north. Okanogan County’s economy has historically been rooted in agriculture, particularly apple orchards and cattle ranching, while tourism, outdoor recreation, and forestry are also significant. The county seat, Okanogan, is a historic town that serves as an administrative center for the region, offering access to the surrounding natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

County Facts:

Population: Approximately 42,000
County Seat: Okanogan
Cities and Towns: 10, including incorporated cities and unincorporated towns

List of Cities and Towns in Okanogan County, Washington

1. Okanogan

Year Founded: 1888
Population: Approximately 2,500
Population Density: 800 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 840 feet

Okanogan, the county seat of Okanogan County, is located along the Okanogan River and serves as the heart of the county’s government and administration. Surrounded by fertile land, Okanogan has a rich agricultural history, with orchards and ranches shaping its economy. The town is accessible via U.S. Route 97, connecting it to other cities in the county and to Wenatchee to the south.

Things to Do:
Okanogan offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. The Okanogan County Historical Museum showcases exhibits on the town’s early pioneer days and Native American heritage. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Okanogan River provides fishing, kayaking, and riverside trails. Conconully State Park, a short drive away, offers camping, hiking, and opportunities for water recreation. Okanogan hosts the annual Okanogan County Fair, featuring rodeos, livestock shows, and local arts and crafts, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage.

2. Omak

Year Founded: 1907
Population: Approximately 4,800
Population Density: 900 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 840 feet

Omak, the largest city in Okanogan County, is located along the Okanogan River and is known for its strong agricultural and rodeo traditions. The town’s economy centers around agriculture, retail, and services, with a growing tourism industry. Omak is easily accessible via U.S. Route 97 and State Route 20, making it a convenient stop for travelers.

Things to Do:
Omak is famous for the Omak Stampede, one of the largest rodeos in the Northwest, held every August and featuring the famous Suicide Race. The nearby Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest offers trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. The Omak Performing Arts Center hosts concerts and events throughout the year, while the local farmers market offers fresh produce and crafts from regional vendors. Omak Lake, located southeast of the town, is a scenic spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking.

3. Twisp

Year Founded: 1897
Population: Approximately 1,000
Population Density: 900 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 1,600 feet

Twisp, located in the scenic Methow Valley, is known for its vibrant arts community and outdoor recreation. The town has a charming, small-town feel and is surrounded by natural beauty, making it popular among artists and nature enthusiasts. State Route 20 provides access to Twisp and connects it to nearby Methow Valley towns.

Things to Do:
Twisp’s Confluence Gallery and Art Center hosts exhibits showcasing local and regional art. Outdoor lovers can enjoy fishing, hiking, and mountain biking along the Methow River and surrounding trails. The Methow Valley Farmers Market is a popular gathering spot for fresh produce and handmade goods. During winter, nearby cross-country skiing trails are some of the best in the state. Twisp’s annual Art Walk and Studio Tour attracts visitors for a weekend of arts, crafts, and live performances.

4. Winthrop

Year Founded: 1891
Population: Approximately 500
Population Density: 300 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 1,765 feet

Winthrop, located in the Methow Valley, is known for its Western-style architecture and outdoor recreation activities. With wooden boardwalks and Western-themed buildings, the town offers a nostalgic glimpse into the past while also serving as a hub for adventure seekers. Winthrop is accessible by State Route 20, part of the North Cascades Scenic Byway.

Things to Do:
Winthrop’s historic downtown offers shops, restaurants, and a unique Old West atmosphere. The Shafer Museum provides exhibits on the area’s history and gold rush days. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Methow Trails, one of the largest cross-country skiing systems in North America, offering miles of trails for winter sports. In the summer, hiking, biking, and horseback riding are popular in the surrounding Methow Valley. The annual Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival draws music lovers from around the region.

5. Tonasket

Year Founded: 1927
Population: Approximately 1,000
Population Density: 700 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 915 feet

Tonasket is a small town north of Omak along the Okanogan River, known for its agricultural landscape and outdoor opportunities. The town is surrounded by orchards and farms, contributing to its rural character. U.S. Route 97 runs through Tonasket, making it a convenient stop for travelers heading to Canada or southern Washington.

Things to Do:
Tonasket offers access to the Okanogan River for fishing and kayaking, as well as nearby hiking trails in the surrounding hills. The Tonasket Farmers Market provides local produce and crafts, and the annual Tonasket Founders Day celebration includes parades, games, and community gatherings. Loomis State Forest, a short drive from Tonasket, offers trails for hiking, horseback riding, and scenic nature experiences.

List of Communities in Okanogan County, Washington

1. Conconully

Year Founded: 1887
Population: Approximately 210
Population Density: 500 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 2,300 feet

Conconully is a small community known for its outdoor recreation options, including camping, fishing, and boating at Conconully State Park and Conconully Lake. It’s a popular destination for those seeking a mountain getaway.

2. Riverside

Year Founded: 1913
Population: Approximately 280
Population Density: 400 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 1,200 feet

Riverside, located along the Okanogan River, is a quiet rural community with access to river activities like fishing and kayaking. Its agricultural surroundings add to its relaxed, small-town charm.

3. Nespelem

Year Founded: Early 1900s
Population: Approximately 230
Population Density: 150 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 1,800 feet

Nespelem, located on the Colville Indian Reservation, has a rich Indigenous heritage and serves as a cultural center for the Colville Confederated Tribes. The area offers scenic landscapes and cultural experiences.