Cities in Crawford County, Wisconsin
Crawford County, located in southwestern Wisconsin along the Mississippi River, is one of the oldest counties in the state, established in 1818. The county was named after William H. Crawford, who was the U.S. Secretary of War at the time. The area is known for its rich history, including early Native American settlements and French fur trading posts. The county’s landscape is marked by rolling hills, river valleys, and scenic bluffs, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Mississippi River, along with the Wisconsin and Kickapoo Rivers, provides ample opportunities for water-based recreation and wildlife viewing.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 16,000
- County Seat: Prairie du Chien
- Number of Cities and Towns: 2 cities, 11 towns
List of Cities and Towns in Crawford County, Wisconsin
1. Prairie du Chien
- Year Founded: 1673 (settlement), 1829 (incorporated)
- Population: Approximately 5,500
- Population Density: 1,200 people per square mile
- Area Code: 608
- Elevation: 620 feet
Overview
Prairie du Chien, the county seat of Crawford County, is the second-oldest city in Wisconsin. Located along the banks of the Mississippi River, the city has a rich history tied to Native American trade and French exploration. It was a significant fur trading center during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Today, Prairie du Chien is a small but vibrant community known for its historical sites, charming downtown, and scenic riverfront. The city is accessible via U.S. Highway 18 and Wisconsin State Highway 35, making it a key stop along the Great River Road. The local economy is supported by tourism, retail, and manufacturing, with a growing emphasis on heritage tourism and outdoor recreation.
Things to Do
Prairie du Chien offers a wealth of attractions for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. The Villa Louis, a restored Victorian mansion, is a must-visit for those interested in Wisconsin’s early history. The Fort Crawford Museum provides exhibits on the city’s military past and its role in westward expansion. Fishing, boating, and bird watching are popular activities along the Mississippi River, with many visitors exploring the backwaters by kayak or canoe. The city hosts the annual Rendezvous Days, a festival celebrating the area’s fur trading history with reenactments and traditional crafts. Visitors can also enjoy hiking in nearby Wyalusing State Park, which offers stunning views of the river confluence.
2. Soldiers Grove
- Year Founded: 1856
- Population: Approximately 550
- Population Density: 300 people per square mile
- Area Code: 608
- Elevation: 725 feet
Overview
Soldiers Grove is a small, picturesque town located in the Kickapoo River Valley. Known as the “Solar Village,” it gained national recognition in the 1970s for its innovative efforts to relocate its downtown area to avoid flooding and to focus on sustainable, solar-powered development. The town is surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, providing a scenic backdrop for its historic homes and modern energy-efficient buildings. Soldiers Grove is accessible via Wisconsin State Highway 131, which runs through the heart of the town, connecting it to other communities in the region. The town’s economy is based on tourism, small businesses, and agriculture, with a strong focus on sustainable practices.
Things to Do
Visitors to Soldiers Grove can enjoy a variety of outdoor and cultural activities. The Kickapoo River offers excellent opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The Driftless Area, with its unique geological features, is a popular destination for hiking and bird watching. Soldiers Grove hosts the annual Driftless Music Festival, showcasing local musicians and artists. The town’s Solar Village is an interesting example of sustainable development, featuring solar-powered buildings and green spaces. Local shops and farmers markets offer handmade crafts, local produce, and artisanal foods. The nearby Kickapoo Valley Reserve provides additional trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
List of Communities in Crawford County, Wisconsin
1. Gays Mills
- Year Founded: 1865
- Population: Approximately 500
- Population Density: Sparse
- Area Code: 608
- Elevation: 689 feet
Gays Mills is a village known for its apple orchards and annual Apple Festival. The village is located along the Kickapoo River and offers a charming rural setting. It is popular for apple picking, cider tasting, and exploring local orchards.
2. Ferryville
- Year Founded: 1850s
- Population: Approximately 180
- Population Density: Sparse
- Area Code: 608
- Elevation: 660 feet
Ferryville is a small village located along the Mississippi River, known for its scenic views and bird watching opportunities. The village features several public parks and access points for fishing and boating, making it a great stop for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Wauzeka
- Year Founded: 1851
- Population: Approximately 650
- Population Density: Sparse
- Area Code: 608
- Elevation: 676 feet
Wauzeka is a quiet, rural village situated near the Wisconsin River. It is known for its proximity to the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway, offering access to kayaking, canoeing, and camping. The village has a strong agricultural community and a relaxed, small-town vibe.
4. Bell Center
- Year Founded: 1900s
- Population: Approximately 120
- Population Density: Very sparse
- Area Code: 608
- Elevation: 700 feet
Bell Center is a tiny village surrounded by farmland and rolling hills. It is a peaceful, rural community known for its agricultural heritage and scenic landscapes, popular among visitors seeking a quiet retreat.
5. Steuben
- Year Founded: 1865
- Population: Approximately 130
- Population Density: Sparse
- Area Code: 608
- Elevation: 690 feet
Steuben is a small village located near the confluence of the Kickapoo and Wisconsin Rivers. The village is known for its outdoor recreation, including fishing, hunting, and river-based activities, attracting visitors year-round.
6. Lynxville
- Year Founded: 1850s
- Population: Approximately 150
- Population Density: Sparse
- Area Code: 608
- Elevation: 675 feet
Lynxville is a village nestled along the Mississippi River, popular for its excellent fishing spots. The village provides boat launches and access to the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge, making it a hotspot for anglers and nature enthusiasts.