Cities and Towns in Box Butte County, Nebraska
Founded in 1887, Box Butte County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Box Butte County was formed from Dawes County. The city of Alliance is the county seat. With FIPS code of 13, Box Butte County has a population of 10,604 and area of 1,075 square miles (2,784 km²).
List of all cities in Box Butte County, NE alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alliance, NE | 69301 | 308 |
| Berea, NE | 69301 | 308 |
| Dunlap, NE | 69348 | 308 |
| Hemingford, NE | 69348 | 308 |
Major Cities and Towns in Box Butte County, Nebraska
Alliance
Location and History
- Area: 2.92 square miles
- Population: 8,000 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 69301
- Latitude: 42.1061° N
- Longitude: 102.8766° W
Alliance is the county seat of Box Butte County, located in the western part of Nebraska. Founded in 1888, the town grew rapidly with the arrival of the railroad, which helped link the area to larger markets. It was named after the alliance formed between the Union Pacific Railroad and the Burlington Northern Railway. Alliance quickly became an important trade center for the surrounding agricultural community, especially for cattle ranching and crop production. In the early 20th century, the town experienced a boom due to the growth of its coal mining industry, as well as its prominence as a regional transportation hub. Over time, Alliance’s economy diversified, but agriculture and energy production remain central to its identity. The town also served as a commercial and social hub for the surrounding area, making it an important city in the western Nebraska region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Alliance is served by the Alliance Public Schools, which includes Alliance High School, Alliance Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for strong academic and athletic programs, as well as extracurricular activities. Key landmarks in Alliance include the Carhenge, an iconic and quirky replica of England’s Stonehenge, made entirely from vintage cars. The Knight Museum and Sandhills Center showcases the region’s history, from Native American culture to the early days of settlement. The Dobby’s Frontier Town is another popular attraction that recreates the old western frontier, complete with historic buildings and exhibits. Sculpture Garden and West Nebraska Arts Center highlight local art and culture. The Box Butte County Fairgrounds hosts annual events, including the Box Butte County Fair, a key community event.
Hemingford
Location and History
- Area: 1.02 square miles
- Population: 900 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 69348
- Latitude: 42.2497° N
- Longitude: 102.3244° W
Hemingford is a small town located in the southern part of Box Butte County. Originally established in the early 1880s as a railroad stop, it was named after the village of Hemingford Grey in England, which was the hometown of one of the early settlers. Like many small towns in the region, Hemingford’s early economy was centered around agriculture, particularly grain farming and cattle ranching. The arrival of the railroad played a key role in its growth, allowing the town to become a transportation and shipping hub for surrounding farms. Today, Hemingford remains a quiet, rural community with strong agricultural roots, and it continues to serve as a service center for nearby ranchers and farmers. Over the years, the town has maintained its small-town charm while providing a variety of services to the local population.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hemingford is served by the Hemingford Public Schools, which includes Hemingford High School and Hemingford Elementary School. The district is known for its close-knit environment and commitment to academic excellence. Major landmarks in Hemingford include the Hemingford Community Park, which offers a variety of recreational amenities such as sports fields, a walking trail, and a picnic area. The Hemingford Museum is another important landmark that provides insight into the town’s history, especially its agricultural past and early railroad connections. The Cemetery Hill is a historic site that offers a panoramic view of the town and surrounding landscape. Additionally, the Hemingford Livestock Market plays a significant role in the local economy, serving as a hub for cattle auctions and agricultural business. The town also hosts local events such as the Hemingford Summer Festival, featuring games, music, and food.
Lake Alice
Location and History
- Area: 0.72 square miles
- Population: 30 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 69348
- Latitude: 42.3278° N
- Longitude: 102.5339° W
Lake Alice is an unincorporated community located near the southeastern edge of Box Butte County. The area was originally developed as a recreational spot, with the construction of Lake Alice in the mid-20th century. The lake was created as a reservoir for local water supply but soon became a popular site for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. The surrounding land is sparsely populated, with most residents living in nearby towns such as Hemingford or Alliance. Today, Lake Alice serves as a quiet retreat for those seeking outdoor recreation and is particularly popular with residents and visitors looking for a peaceful environment in western Nebraska’s rural landscape. Although small, the community is valued for its access to natural resources and its proximity to major highways.
Major Schools and Landmarks
As an unincorporated community, Lake Alice is served by the schools in nearby towns, particularly the Hemingford Public Schools district. The district offers educational opportunities for students in the area, including sports teams and other extracurricular activities. Lake Alice’s main landmark is the Lake Alice Recreation Area, which offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking. The lake itself is the main draw, and it is frequented by local families and visitors from nearby towns looking for a quiet retreat. The Lake Alice Wildlife Area provides opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation, with the area serving as a sanctuary for many species of birds and small mammals. The small community is also home to a few residences and summer cabins, making it a peaceful location for those who enjoy nature and solitude.
Camelot
Location and History
- Area: 0.45 square miles
- Population: 20 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 69301
- Latitude: 42.1372° N
- Longitude: 102.9681° W
Camelot is another small, unincorporated community in Box Butte County, located just west of Alliance. The community was developed in the mid-20th century as a planned residential area, with its name evoking the legendary Camelot of King Arthur. The area’s development was tied to the growing demand for homes and recreational areas near Alliance, as people sought a rural lifestyle while remaining close to the amenities and services of the larger town. However, Camelot never grew beyond a small collection of homes and residences, and today, it is a quiet, sparsely populated area. Its primary draw is its proximity to Alliance and its appeal as a peaceful residential location in western Nebraska’s vast, open plains.
Major Schools and Landmarks
As a small residential community, Camelot does not have its own school, and children attend schools in Alliance. The Alliance Public Schools district offers K-12 education and a variety of extracurricular activities. Camelot’s most significant landmarks are the nearby natural areas, including the Niobrara River and the Box Butte Reservoir, both of which offer excellent opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. Camelot is primarily a quiet residential area, with little in the way of commercial or cultural landmarks. However, its proximity to Alliance and the surrounding natural beauty makes it a desirable place for those seeking solitude and a slower pace of life.
