Cities and Towns in Cass County, Minnesota
Founded in 1851, Cass County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Cass County was formed from Dakota County, Pembina County, Mankahto County and Wahnata County. The city of Walker is the county seat. With FIPS code of 21, Cass County has a population of 30,639 and area of 2,017.60 square miles (5,226 km²).
List of all cities in Cass County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ah Gwah Ching, MN | 56430 | 218 |
| Backus, MN | 56435 | 218 |
| Barclay, MN | 56474 | 218 |
| Bena, MN | 56626 | 218 |
| Beulah, MN | 56662 | 218 |
| Blind Lake, MN | 56474 | 218 |
| Boy Lake, MN | 56655 | 218 |
| Boy River, MN | 56672 | 218 |
| Brevik, MN | 56655 | 218 |
| Cass Lake, MN | 56633 | 218 |
| Chickamaw Beach, MN | 56474 | 218 |
| Crooked Lake, MN | 56662 | 218 |
| Farden, MN | 56633 | 218 |
| Farris, MN | 56633 | 218 |
| Federal Dam, MN | 56641 | 218 |
| Hackensack, MN | 56452 | 218 |
| Inguadona, MN | 56655 | 218 |
| Kego, MN | 56655 | 218 |
| Leech Lake, MN | 56484 | 218 |
| Lima, MN | 56672 | 218 |
| Longville, MN | 56655 | 218 |
| Macville, MN | 55785 | 218 |
| Onigum, MN | 56484 | 218 |
| Outing, MN | 56662 | 218 |
| Pike Bay, MN | 56633 | 218 |
| Pillager, MN | 56473 | 218 |
| Pine River, MN | 56474 | 218 |
| Ponto Lake, MN | 56474 | 218 |
| Remer, MN | 56672 | 218 |
| Rheiderland, MN | 56662 | 218 |
| Schley, MN | 56633 | 218 |
| Shingobee, MN | 56484 | 218 |
| Shovel Lake, MN | 55785 | 218 |
| Slater, MN | 56672 | 218 |
| Smoky Hollow, MN | 56672 | 218 |
| Swanburg, MN | 56474 | 218 |
| Swatara, MN | 55785 | 218 |
| Sylvan, MN | 56473 | 218 |
| Thunder Lake, MN | 56672 | 218 |
| Trelipe, MN | 56662 | 218 |
| Turtle Lake, MN | 56484 | 218 |
| Wabedo, MN | 56655 | 218 |
| Walden, MN | 56474 | 218 |
| Walker, MN | 56484 | 218 |
| Whipholt, MN | 56484 | 218 |
| Wilkinson, MN | 56633 | 218 |
| Wilson, MN | 56474 | 218 |
| Woodrow, MN | 56474 | 218 |
Major Cities and Towns in Cass County, Minnesota
1. Walker
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 4.28 square miles
- Population: 1,300 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56484
- Latitude: 47.1181° N
- Longitude: 94.5600° W
City Location and History
Walker, located in the northern part of Cass County, is situated on the shores of Leech Lake, one of Minnesota’s largest lakes. The city was established in the late 1800s and became a popular destination for logging and fur trading. It was originally known as the “Leech Lake” settlement, named after the lake, which was a central point for trade routes. As the region developed, the discovery of abundant timber in the surrounding forests spurred economic growth in the 19th century, and Walker became a hub for logging and related industries.
The town was officially incorporated in 1901, and its location along the lake made it an attractive spot for tourism and recreation. Over time, Walker transitioned into a resort town, offering seasonal opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The area around Leech Lake is also known for its pristine forests, making Walker a popular destination for those seeking outdoor activities, such as hiking and camping. The presence of the Chippewa National Forest, which surrounds the town, enhances its appeal to nature lovers and vacationers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Walker is served by the Walker-Hackensack-Akeley School District, which includes Walker High School, Akeley Elementary School, and other local educational institutions. The district offers strong academic programs, as well as extracurricular activities such as sports and arts. Walker is home to several notable landmarks, including the Leech Lake Visitor Center, which provides information about the local environment and the history of the area. The Chippewa National Forest is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and birdwatching. The Walker Bay Wilderness Area and Leech Lake itself are key attractions, with their scenic beauty and abundant wildlife. The city also hosts the annual Leech Lake Fishing Tournament, which draws anglers from across the region for a competitive fishing event. Additionally, the Northern Lights Casino offers entertainment and gaming, contributing to Walker’s tourism-driven economy. The Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway, which runs through the area, provides stunning views of lakes, forests, and the natural landscape.
2. Cass Lake
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.84 square miles
- Population: 700 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56633
- Latitude: 47.3619° N
- Longitude: 94.6175° W
City Location and History
Cass Lake, located in the central part of Cass County, is named after Lake Cass, which is one of the largest bodies of water in the region. The area has been historically significant to the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, whose ancestral lands surround the lake. The area was originally settled in the mid-1800s as part of the Minnesota Territory, and its proximity to important waterways made it a key location for fur trading and logging.
Cass Lake was incorporated in 1901, following the establishment of nearby towns and the growing importance of transportation routes that ran through the region. Logging and fishing became the primary industries in Cass Lake during its early years, with the abundant timber and fertile fishing grounds offering economic opportunities. Over time, Cass Lake transitioned into a tourist destination, with visitors drawn to the area for its natural beauty, including the crystal-clear waters of Cass Lake and its surrounding forests. The nearby Chippewa National Forest provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including camping, hiking, and wildlife watching.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cass Lake is served by the Cass Lake-Bena School District, which includes Cass Lake-Bena High School and Cass Lake-Bena Middle School. The district is known for its strong academic programs and focus on Indigenous culture and education. Key landmarks in Cass Lake include Cass Lake Park, which offers picnic areas, beaches, and access to the lake for boating and fishing. The Leech Lake Ojibwe Museum is another significant landmark, showcasing the history and culture of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe people. The Chippewa National Forest, which surrounds Cass Lake, is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and birdwatching, with numerous trails and campsites available. The Cass Lake Fishing Tournament is a local event that attracts both professional and amateur anglers, celebrating the area’s rich fishing heritage. The Northern Lights Casino, located just outside of Cass Lake, provides entertainment, dining, and gaming. The nearby Lake Itasca and Mississippi River Headwaters are also significant natural landmarks, contributing to the area’s tourism and recreational activities.
3. Pine River
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.23 square miles
- Population: 1,000 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56474
- Latitude: 46.7226° N
- Longitude: 94.3749° W
City Location and History
Pine River is a small city located in the southeastern part of Cass County, near the junction of Pine River and the Mississippi River. The area was originally settled in the 1870s by European immigrants, particularly from Scandinavian backgrounds. The town developed as a logging and mill town due to its location along the Pine River, which provided an easy route for transporting logs to sawmills. The name “Pine River” was chosen because of the abundant pine trees that once dominated the area.
Pine River was officially incorporated in 1900, and during the early years, the city thrived on the timber industry. As the timber supply diminished in the early 20th century, the economy diversified, and agriculture became more prominent. Over the years, Pine River has transformed into a more residential and recreational community, with many visitors drawn to the area for its lakes, forests, and outdoor activities. The town’s location at the confluence of the Pine River and Mississippi River has made it an important stop for travelers and recreational boaters.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pine River is served by the Pine River-Backus School District, which includes Pine River-Backus High School and Pine River-Backus Elementary School. The district offers a strong focus on academics and community involvement. The city’s notable landmarks include the Pine River Dam, which is a popular fishing and boating location, providing access to both the Pine and Mississippi Rivers. The Pine River City Park offers a public beach, sports fields, and picnic areas for residents and visitors. Additionally, The Pine River Historical Society Museum showcases the history of the area, particularly its logging and agricultural heritage. The town is also known for its Annual Pine River Heritage Days, a local event celebrating the community’s history with parades, music, and food. The Pine River Area Library provides educational resources for residents, while nearby Bowstring Lake and North Long Lake offer additional recreational opportunities such as fishing, swimming, and boating. The city is surrounded by forests, making it a great destination for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying nature.
4. Backus
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.03 square miles
- Population: 400 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56435
- Latitude: 46.7822° N
- Longitude: 94.3070° W
City Location and History
Backus is a small city located in the central part of Cass County, about 20 miles west of Pine River. The city was established in the late 1800s and is named after Lorenzo Backus, an early settler and lumberman in the area. The region was originally populated by Indigenous people, particularly the Ojibwe, and European settlers began arriving in the 19th century to take advantage of the abundant timber resources.
In the late 1800s, Backus became an important center for the timber industry, and it grew into a small village. The town’s economy revolved around logging, and the nearby Crow Wing River provided an easy route for transporting logs to mills and markets. However, as the timber supply diminished, Backus shifted toward agriculture and small-scale industry. Today, Backus remains a quiet rural town, with a small population and a focus on agriculture, recreation, and tourism. Its location near several lakes and forests makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Backus is served by the Pine River-Backus School District, which provides educational opportunities for local students at Backus Elementary School and Pine River-Backus High School. The district offers a variety of academic and extracurricular programs. Key landmarks in Backus include the Backus City Park, which features picnic areas, sports fields, and a small community center. The town is also home to the Backus Historical Society, which preserves the town’s history, particularly its logging and early settler heritage. Lake Shamineau, just to the north of the city, is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and camping. Additionally, the Crow Wing River provides opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, as well as fishing. The Backus Community Center hosts local events, such as fundraisers, meetings, and community celebrations. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and outdoor recreation.
