Cities and Towns in Carter County, Missouri

Founded in 1859, Carter County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Carter County was formed from Oregon, Reynolds, Ripley and Shannon counties. The city of Van Buren is the county seat. With FIPS code of 35, Carter County has a population of 5,320 and area of 508 square miles (1,316 km²).

List of all cities in Carter County, MO alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Chicopee, MO	63965	573
Eastwood, MO	63965	573
Ellsinore, MO	63937	573
Fremont, MO	63941	573
Garwood, MO	63965	573
Grandin, MO	63943	573
House Creek, MO	63965	573
South Van Buren, MO	63965	573
Van Buren, MO	63965	573

Major Cities and Towns in Carter County, Missouri

Van Buren

Overview

• Area: Approximately 2.97 square miles
• Population: About 800 (latest estimate)
• Zip Codes: 63965
• Latitude: 36.9931° N
• Longitude: -91.0154° W

Location and History

Van Buren, the county seat of Carter County, is located along the banks of the Current River in southeastern Missouri. Established in 1833 and named after Martin Van Buren, who would later become President of the United States, the town developed as a trading and transportation hub due to its river access. The Current River was historically used for transporting goods, and Van Buren became a popular stop for settlers and traders. The construction of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in the 1960s transformed the area, attracting tourists drawn to the river’s clear waters and natural beauty. Today, Van Buren is known for its outdoor recreation, drawing visitors for activities like canoeing, fishing, and hiking.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Van Buren is served by the Van Buren R-I School District, which includes Van Buren High School, known for its strong academic programs and community involvement. Key landmarks in Van Buren include Big Spring, one of the largest springs in the United States, located within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Current River State Park and Blue Spring are popular attractions for hiking, camping, and swimming. The annual Riverways Festival celebrates local culture and brings the community together for music, food, and crafts, making Van Buren a vibrant center for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Grandin

Overview

• Area: Approximately 0.20 square miles
• Population: Around 240 (latest estimate)
• Zip Codes: 63943
• Latitude: 36.9420° N
• Longitude: -90.8226° W

Location and History

Grandin is a small town in northeastern Carter County with a rich history tied to the timber industry. Founded in the late 19th century by the Missouri Lumber and Mining Company, Grandin grew as a logging town, with vast quantities of timber harvested from the surrounding forests. At its peak, the town was home to one of the largest sawmills in the country, drawing workers and families to the area. However, as the timber resources were exhausted, Grandin’s population declined, and it transformed into a quiet rural community. Despite its size, Grandin remains historically significant as a former center of the lumber industry in Missouri.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Grandin is served by the nearby Van Buren R-I School District. The Missouri Lumber Museum in Grandin commemorates the town’s timber heritage, showcasing artifacts, photos, and exhibits related to the logging era. The Mark Twain National Forest surrounds the town, offering opportunities for hiking, hunting, and exploring the Ozark landscape. The Grandin Sawmill historic site provides a glimpse into the past, with interpretive signs and remnants of the old mill. Grandin’s annual Heritage Day celebrates the town’s logging history with local crafts, storytelling, and tours, keeping its rich heritage alive for both residents and visitors.

Hunter

Overview

• Area: Approximately 0.13 square miles
• Population: Around 120 (latest estimate)
• Zip Codes: 63943
• Latitude: 36.9498° N
• Longitude: -90.8142° W

Location and History

Hunter is a small unincorporated community located in Carter County, near the northern edge of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Founded in the early 20th century, Hunter developed as a small agricultural and logging community, supporting the local timber industry that was thriving in the region. Although logging activity has since declined, Hunter has retained its rural character and close connection to nature. Today, Hunter is a quiet, close-knit community, surrounded by forested hills and close to some of Missouri’s most beautiful natural landscapes, including rivers and scenic areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hunter is served by the Van Buren R-I School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns. The surrounding Mark Twain National Forest provides ample outdoor recreational opportunities for residents, including hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. Big Spring and the Current River are nearby attractions that draw visitors for kayaking, fishing, and exploring the pristine natural environment. Hunter’s proximity to these landmarks offers residents easy access to the Ozarks’ scenic beauty, making it a peaceful location for those who enjoy a rural lifestyle close to nature.