Cities and Towns in Billings County, North Dakota
Founded in 1879, Billings County is one of 53 counties in the state of North Dakota. The city of Medora is the county seat. With FIPS code of 7, Billings County has a population of 955 and area of 1,152 square miles (2,984 km²).
List of all cities in Billings County, ND alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Fairfield, ND | 58627 | 701 |
| Gorham, ND | 58627 | 701 |
| Medora, ND | 58645 | 701 |
Major Cities and Towns in Billings County, North Dakota
Medora
Overview
Medora, the county seat of Billings County, is situated in the southwestern part of North Dakota, nestled within the North Dakota Badlands. Founded in 1883 by French nobleman Marquis de Mores, the city was named after his wife, Medora von Hoffman. The Marquis established a meat-packing plant and other enterprises, aiming to revolutionize the meat industry by shipping refrigerated meat to the East. Although his ventures were short-lived, they left a lasting legacy in the region. Medora has evolved into a prominent tourist destination, serving as the gateway to the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
- Area: 0.41 square miles
- Population: Approximately 121 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 58645
- Latitude: 46.9133° N
- Longitude: 103.5249° W
Education and Landmarks
Medora is served by the Billings County School District, which operates the DeMores Elementary School, providing education from kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students attend nearby institutions in surrounding areas. The city is renowned for its historical and cultural landmarks, including the Chateau de Mores, the former residence of the Marquis, now a museum offering insights into the area’s history. The Medora Musical, a summer musical revue, attracts visitors with performances celebrating the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt and the Old West. Additionally, the Bully Pulpit Golf Course offers a unique golfing experience amidst the picturesque Badlands terrain.
Fryburg
Overview
Fryburg is an unincorporated community located approximately 12 miles east of Medora, along Interstate 94. Established in the early 20th century, Fryburg served as a small hub for local ranchers and farmers. The community’s development was closely tied to the expansion of the railroad and agriculture in the region. Over time, Fryburg has remained a quiet, rural area with a sparse population, reflecting the broader trends of rural depopulation in the Great Plains.
- Area: Not officially defined
- Population: Data not separately recorded
- ZIP Code: 58622
- Latitude: 46.8747° N
- Longitude: 103.2985° W
Education and Landmarks
As an unincorporated community, Fryburg does not have its own school system. Students from the area attend schools within the Billings County School District, primarily in Medora. While Fryburg lacks major landmarks, its proximity to the Little Missouri National Grassland offers residents and visitors access to vast natural landscapes, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife observation, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Badlands.
Fairfield
Overview
Fairfield is an unincorporated community located in the northeastern part of Billings County. The community developed as a small agricultural settlement, with farming and ranching as the primary economic activities. Fairfield’s history is emblematic of many rural communities in North Dakota, characterized by a strong connection to the land and a close-knit community spirit.
- Area: Not officially defined
- Population: Data not separately recorded
- ZIP Code: 58627
- Latitude: 47.2400° N
- Longitude: 103.1835° W
Education and Landmarks
Residents of Fairfield are served by the Billings County School District, with students attending schools in nearby communities, such as Medora or neighboring counties, depending on proximity. While Fairfield does not have prominent landmarks, its rural setting provides a tranquil environment, with expansive prairies and rolling hills that are characteristic of the region. The community’s agricultural heritage is evident in the surrounding farmlands and ranches, reflecting the enduring importance of agriculture to the local economy and way of life.
Gorham
Overview
Gorham is an unincorporated community situated in the southeastern part of Billings County. Like many small settlements in the area, Gorham’s origins are rooted in agriculture and the expansion of the railroad in the early 20th century. Over the years, the community has remained small, with a focus on farming and ranching.
- Area: Not officially defined
- Population: Data not separately recorded
- ZIP Code: 58622
- Latitude: 46.8333° N
- Longitude: 103.2000° W
Education and Landmarks
Educational services for Gorham residents are provided by the Billings County School District, with students attending schools in nearby communities. While Gorham does not feature major landmarks, its location within the Badlands offers access to unique geological formations and natural beauty. The community’s rural landscape is dotted with farms and ranches, highlighting the area’s agricultural roots and the significance of farming to the local economy.
Sentinel Butte
Overview
Sentinel Butte is a small city located just west of Billings County, in Golden Valley County. However, its proximity to Billings County and shared regional history make it relevant in discussions about the area. Established in the late 19th century, the city was named after the nearby Sentinel Butte, a prominent geological feature that served as a landmark for early settlers and travelers. The city developed as a service center for the surrounding agricultural community.
- Area: 0.26 square miles
- Population: Approximately 56 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 58654
- Latitude: 46.9167° N
- Longitude: 103.8417° W