Cities and Towns in Cowley County, Kansas
Founded in 1867, Cowley County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Cowley County was formed from Butler County. The city of Winfield is the county seat. With FIPS code of 35, Cowley County has a population of 34,496 and area of 1,126 square miles (2,916 km²).
List of all cities in Cowley County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Arkansas City, KS | 67005 | 620 |
| Atlanta, KS | 67008 | 620 |
| Burden, KS | 67019 | 620 |
| Cambridge, KS | 67023 | 620 |
| Dexter, KS | 67038 | 620 |
| Maple City, KS | 67102 | 620 |
| New Salem, KS | 67156 | 620 |
| Parkerfield, KS | 67005 | 620 |
| Rock, KS | 67131 | 620 |
| Silverdale, KS | 67005 | 620 |
| Udall, KS | 67146 | 620 |
| Winfield, KS | 67156 | 620 |
Major Cities and Towns in Cowley County, Kansas
Winfield
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 12.93 square miles
- Population: 11,777 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67156
- Latitude: 37.2394° N
- Longitude: 96.9958° W
Location and History
Winfield, the county seat of Cowley County, is located in southern Kansas along the Walnut River, about 45 miles southeast of Wichita. Founded in 1870, the city was named after Winfield Scott, a prominent U.S. Army general. Winfield’s location along the river, combined with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century, helped it develop into a regional center for agriculture, commerce, and education. Winfield became known for wheat farming, cattle ranching, and manufacturing. The city also has a rich cultural heritage, particularly in music, and is home to the annual Walnut Valley Festival, one of the largest folk and bluegrass festivals in the country.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Winfield is served by the Winfield USD 465 school district, with Winfield High School, Winfield Middle School, and multiple elementary schools. Southwestern College, a private liberal arts institution, is also located in the city, contributing to its educational reputation. The city’s most famous landmark is the historic Island Park, which offers beautiful walking trails, playgrounds, and the annual Isle of Lights holiday display. The Cowley County Historical Museum preserves local history, while the Marquee Performing Arts Center hosts concerts and events. The nearby Winfield City Lake and Timber Creek offer recreational opportunities, making Winfield a key destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Arkansas City
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 9.31 square miles
- Population: 11,974 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67005
- Latitude: 37.0667° N
- Longitude: 97.0386° W
Location and History
Arkansas City, often referred to as “Ark City,” is located near the confluence of the Arkansas and Walnut Rivers in southern Cowley County, just north of the Oklahoma border. Established in 1870, the city became an important trading post and gateway for settlers heading westward. Its name comes from its location near the Arkansas River. The arrival of the railroad transformed the city into a regional hub for agriculture and commerce, and it quickly became a significant cattle-shipping point. Over the years, Arkansas City has maintained a strong agricultural base, while also developing industrial and manufacturing sectors.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Arkansas City is served by the Arkansas City USD 470 school district, with Arkansas City High School, Arkansas City Middle School, and several elementary schools. Cowley College, a community college, is located in the city and offers a variety of academic and vocational programs. The city’s major landmarks include the Cherokee Strip Land Rush Museum, which commemorates the 1893 land rush into what is now Oklahoma, and the historic Burford Theatre, which has been restored and serves as a performing arts venue. The Chaplin Nature Center, located nearby along the Arkansas River, offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing. Arkansas City also hosts an annual Arkalalah Festival, a community celebration featuring parades, food, and entertainment.
Burden
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.59 square miles
- Population: 533 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67019
- Latitude: 37.3144° N
- Longitude: 96.7556° W
Location and History
Burden is located in eastern Cowley County, along U.S. Route 160, about 20 miles east of Winfield. The town was founded in 1879 and named after Robert F. Burden, an early settler and Civil War veteran. Burden initially developed as a farming community, with wheat, corn, and cattle ranching playing central roles in its economy. The arrival of the railroad helped connect Burden to larger markets and brought additional growth. Over time, Burden has retained its small-town charm while serving as a local agricultural hub for the surrounding rural areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Burden is part of the Central USD 462 school district, with Central Junior/Senior High School and Central Elementary School serving the local population. The town’s key landmarks include the Burden City Park, which features playgrounds, picnic areas, and hosts community events. Another notable site is the historic downtown area, which has preserved several buildings from the town’s early days. Burden’s annual Burden Day celebration brings residents together for parades, games, and entertainment. The surrounding countryside offers scenic views of the Kansas plains, making Burden a peaceful place to live with easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
Udall
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.50 square miles
- Population: 746 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67146
- Latitude: 37.3878° N
- Longitude: 97.1161° W
Location and History
Udall is located in northern Cowley County, near the Sumner County border, along Kansas State Highway 15. The town was founded in 1879 and named after Cornelius Udall, a local pioneer. Udall is best known for the devastating tornado that struck in 1955, which remains the deadliest tornado in Kansas history, killing 77 people and leveling much of the town. Despite this tragedy, Udall rebuilt and remains a resilient community. The town’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with wheat and cattle farming playing significant roles.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Udall is part of the Udall USD 463 school district, which includes Udall High School and Udall Elementary School. Key landmarks in the town include the Udall Memorial Park, which commemorates the lives lost in the 1955 tornado, and features a memorial monument and gardens. The town also hosts an annual Udall Fall Festival, a community celebration with parades, food, and entertainment. The nearby Walnut River provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing and picnicking. Udall’s small-town atmosphere and strong community spirit have made it a welcoming place for families and those seeking a rural lifestyle.
Dexter
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.28 square miles
- Population: 231 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67038
- Latitude: 37.1769° N
- Longitude: 96.7056° W
Location and History
Dexter is located in eastern Cowley County, near the Arkansas River, along U.S. Route 166. Founded in 1870, the town was named after the famous racehorse, Dexter, reflecting the settlers’ interest in farming and livestock. Dexter became known for its agricultural production, particularly wheat and cattle farming, which has remained the cornerstone of its economy. The town is also known for its geological significance, as the discovery of helium occurred near Dexter in 1905, which marked the first time helium was found in a natural gas well.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dexter is part of the Central USD 462 school district, with Dexter Elementary and Central Junior/Senior High School providing education for the local children. Key landmarks in the town include the Helium Memorial Park, which commemorates the historic discovery of helium. The nearby Cowley State Fishing Lake offers fishing, boating, and camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Dexter also hosts the annual Dexter BBQ and Bean Feed, which draws visitors from across the region for food, music, and family-friendly activities. With its rich history and rural setting, Dexter offers a quiet, welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
Cambridge
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.16 square miles
- Population: 82 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 67023
- Latitude: 37.3178° N
- Longitude: 96.5892° W
Location and History
Cambridge is a small town located in eastern Cowley County, along U.S. Route 160. Established in 1879, Cambridge was named after Cambridge, England, by some of its early settlers. The town originally developed as a ranching and farming community, with agriculture as the backbone of its economy. Like many small Kansas towns, Cambridge grew with the arrival of the railroad, which provided a means for local farmers and ranchers to transport their goods to larger markets. Over time, the town has remained small, preserving its rural character and close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cambridge is part of the Central USD 462 school district, with students attending schools in nearby Burden. The town’s main landmark is the Cambridge Community Building, which serves as a venue for local events and gatherings. Another notable site is the surrounding Flint Hills region, known for its rolling hills and scenic beauty, which provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities. Cambridge’s annual Old Settlers’ Day is a celebration of the town’s pioneer heritage, featuring parades, games, and family-friendly entertainment. The nearby Grouse Creek also offers fishing and picnicking, making Cambridge a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kansas’s countryside.
