Cities and Towns in Brookings County, South Dakota
Founded in 1862, Brookings County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, Brookings County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Brookings is the county seat. With FIPS code of 11, Brookings County has a population of 34,639 and area of 794 square miles (2,056 km²).
List of all cities in Brookings County, SD alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Aurora, SD | 57002 | 605 |
| Brookings, SD | 57006 | 605 |
| 57007 | 605 | |
| Bruce, SD | 57220 | 605 |
| Bushnell, SD | 57276 | 605 |
| Elkton, SD | 57026 | 605 |
| Lake Campbell, SD | 57006 | 605 |
| Lake Sinai, SD | 57061 | 605 |
| Oakwood Lake, SD | 57220 | 605 |
| Roland Colony, SD | 57276 | 605 |
| Sd State University, SD | 57007 | 605 |
| Sinai, SD | 57061 | 605 |
| Volga, SD | 57071 | 605 |
| Ward, SD | 57026 | 605 |
| White, SD | 57276 | 605 |
Major Cities and Towns in Brookings County, South Dakota
Brookings
General Information
- Area: 13.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 24,500 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 57006, 57007
- Latitude: 44.3114° N
- Longitude: 96.7984° W
Location and History
Brookings, the county seat of Brookings County, is located in eastern South Dakota, near the Minnesota border. Founded in 1879, the city was named after Wilmot Brookings, a pioneer advocate for South Dakota’s development. Brookings’ growth was spurred by the expansion of the railroad and its designation as a center for education and commerce. Today, Brookings is a vibrant city known for its cultural attractions and its role as the home of South Dakota State University (SDSU), the largest university in the state.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Brookings’ educational institutions are led by South Dakota State University, which offers diverse programs and contributes significantly to the city’s economy and culture. Landmarks include the McCrory Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden and arboretum, and the South Dakota Art Museum, showcasing regional art. The Children’s Museum of South Dakota and the Brookings Commercial Historic District are also key attractions, offering cultural and educational experiences. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Dakota Nature Park and Larson Ice Center for recreational activities.
Volga
General Information
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,200 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 57071
- Latitude: 44.3194° N
- Longitude: 96.9248° W
Location and History
Volga, located west of Brookings, was established in the 1870s by Scandinavian settlers. Named after the Volga River in Russia, the town grew as an agricultural center due to its fertile land and access to railroads. Volga has retained its small-town charm while developing into a close-knit community with strong ties to agriculture and industry.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Volga is served by the Sioux Valley School District, which includes Sioux Valley High School and Middle School. Key landmarks include the Sioux Valley Performing Arts Center, which hosts cultural events, and the Volga City Park, a popular spot for family gatherings and outdoor activities. The annual Old Timers Day celebration highlights Volga’s community spirit and historical heritage.
Elkton
General Information
- Area: 0.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 750 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 57026
- Latitude: 44.2356° N
- Longitude: 96.4798° W
Location and History
Elkton, located in the southeastern part of Brookings County, was founded in the late 19th century as a farming community. The town’s name reflects the abundance of elk in the area during its early settlement. Elkton grew with the arrival of the railroad, serving as a shipping point for agricultural products. Today, the town is known for its friendly atmosphere and rural charm.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elkton’s schools include Elkton High School and Elkton Middle School, part of the Elkton School District. Landmarks include the Elkton Community Center, a venue for local events, and the historic downtown area, which features unique shops and eateries. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby trails and parks that offer opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.
White
General Information
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 57276
- Latitude: 44.4322° N
- Longitude: 96.6445° W
Location and History
White is a small town located northeast of Brookings. Established in the late 19th century, White grew as a result of the railroad’s expansion and the surrounding agricultural development. The town’s name reflects the region’s open prairies and its early settlers’ vision of simplicity and opportunity.
Major Schools and Landmarks
White’s educational institutions are part of the Deubrook Area School District, with Deubrook High School serving local students. Landmarks include the historic White Community Hall, a hub for gatherings and events, and the city’s well-maintained parks, which provide spaces for recreation and relaxation. The town also hosts seasonal events that bring together residents and visitors, showcasing its tight-knit community spirit.
