Cities and Towns in Crow Wing County, Minnesota

Founded in 1857, Crow Wing County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Crow Wing County was formed from Ramsey County. The city of Brainerd is the county seat. With FIPS code of 35, Crow Wing County has a population of 67,270 and area of 996.57 square miles (2,581 km²).

List of all cities in Crow Wing County, MN alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Baxter, MN	56401	218
	56425	218
Brainerd, MN	56401	218
	56425	218
Breezy Point, MN	56472	218
Crosby, MN	56441	218
Cross Lake, MN	56442	218
Cuyuna, MN	56444	218
Deerwood, MN	56444	218
East Gull Lake, MN	56401	218
Emily, MN	56447	218
Fifty Lakes, MN	56448	218
Fort Ripley, MN	56449	218
Garrison, MN	56450	320
Ironton, MN	56455	218
Jenkins, MN	56456	218
	56472	218
Lake Edwards, MN	56468	218
Lake Hubert, MN	56459	218
	56468	218
Lake Shore, MN	56468	218
Manhattan Bch, MN	56442	218
Manhattan Beach, MN	56442	218
Merrifield, MN	56465	218
Nisswa, MN	56468	218
Pequot Lakes, MN	56472	218
Pine River, MN	56456	218
Riverton, MN	56455	218
Trommald, MN	56441	218

Major Cities and Towns in Crow Wing County, Minnesota

1. Brainerd

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 14.84 square miles
• Population: 14,000 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Code: 56401
• Latitude: 46.3541° N
• Longitude: 94.2020° W

City Location and History

Brainerd is the county seat of Crow Wing County, located in central Minnesota at the confluence of the Mississippi River and the Crow Wing River. The town was founded in 1871, and it owes much of its early development to the arrival of the railroad, which helped establish Brainerd as an important transportation hub for the region. The town’s strategic location along the river and the railroad spurred growth in lumber and railroad industries, leading to the establishment of a thriving community.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Brainerd became known for its timber and railroad-related industries, which attracted workers and settlers from across the country. As the logging industry declined, the town’s economy diversified, with tourism, retail, and services becoming more prominent. Today, Brainerd is a vibrant small city with a rich history tied to its rivers and railroads. The town is known for its recreational opportunities, historic sites, and proximity to Brainerd Lakes Area, which attracts tourists year-round for fishing, boating, and outdoor activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Brainerd is served by the Brainerd Public Schools District, which includes Brainerd High School, Brainerd Middle School, and Turtle Elementary School. The district offers a range of academic programs, as well as extracurricular activities in athletics, music, and the arts. Major landmarks in Brainerd include the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport, which connects the town to regional destinations. Paul Bunyan Park and the Paul Bunyan Trail are popular spots for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing, and they commemorate the legendary lumberjack, Paul Bunyan. The Brainerd Depot, a historical railroad station, serves as a reminder of the town’s railroad roots and houses the Crow Wing County Historical Society. Another significant landmark is Lake Mille Lacs, just to the north, which is known for its fishing and boating opportunities. Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, located south of the city, offers hiking, biking, and water activities in a former mining area, now transformed into a beautiful park. Brainerd is also home to the Annual Water Carnival, a long-standing summer tradition featuring parades, live entertainment, and family-friendly events.

2. Nisswa

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.9 square miles
• Population: 2,000 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Code: 56468
• Latitude: 46.4773° N
• Longitude: 94.3621° W

City Location and History

Nisswa is a charming town located in Crow Wing County, approximately 10 miles north of Brainerd and nestled in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area. Originally settled in the late 19th century, Nisswa was incorporated in 1904. The town’s name is believed to come from the Ojibwe word “Nisawa”, meaning “four,” likely referring to the four nearby lakes in the area. Nisswa’s early economy was based on agriculture, but it quickly transitioned to tourism with the development of lakeside resorts and recreational opportunities, due to its proximity to numerous lakes and forests.

As the Brainerd Lakes Area became a popular destination for vacationers, Nisswa grew into a small, bustling tourist town. Today, Nisswa is known for its laid-back, lakeside atmosphere and its role as a vacation destination. The town has developed a strong retail sector, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and resorts catering to tourists. Its location at the intersection of major lakes also makes it a key hub for outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, and hiking. The town’s charming downtown area, with its quaint shops and eateries, further enhances its appeal as a destination for those seeking a quiet retreat in Minnesota’s beautiful north woods.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Nisswa is served by the Brainerd Public Schools District, with students attending Nisswa Elementary School and Brainerd High School. The schools offer strong academic programs, as well as sports teams and extracurricular activities. Notable landmarks in Nisswa include Nisswa Lake and the Nisswa Lake Park, which offer fishing, swimming, and picnic areas. The Paul Bunyan State Trail, which passes through Nisswa, is a favorite for walking, biking, and cross-country skiing, offering scenic views of the lakes and forests. The town is also known for The Nisswa Classic Car Show, an annual event that attracts car enthusiasts from all over the region. The Grand View Lodge, one of the oldest resorts in the area, is another key landmark, providing lakeside lodging and recreational activities such as golf and spa treatments. Nisswa also hosts the Nisswa-Stem Festival, a celebration of local history, culture, and community, which includes food, music, and activities for all ages. With its small-town charm, Nisswa continues to be a popular destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area.

3. Pequot Lakes

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.5 square miles
• Population: 2,200 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Code: 56472
• Latitude: 46.5323° N
• Longitude: 94.2981° W

City Location and History

Pequot Lakes is located in the Brainerd Lakes Area of central Minnesota, about 15 miles north of Brainerd. The town was established in the early 1900s, with the railroad being a key factor in its development. The name “Pequot” is derived from the Pequot tribe of Native Americans, and the town was originally a stop on the railroad that served surrounding farming communities. While farming and logging were the early industries in the area, Pequot Lakes has become increasingly known for its tourism and recreational activities.

Like many towns in the Brainerd Lakes Area, Pequot Lakes grew with the rise of vacation homes, resorts, and tourism in the mid-20th century. Today, the town’s economy is centered around the recreational industry, particularly boating, fishing, and outdoor sports. Pequot Lakes is known for its proximity to a variety of lakes and state parks, which draw visitors year-round. The town’s growth as a resort community has led to an increase in services, retail businesses, and recreational facilities, making it a key hub for both seasonal and year-round residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Pequot Lakes is served by the Pequot Lakes School District, with Pequot Lakes High School, Pequot Lakes Middle School, and Pequot Lakes Elementary School providing education for local students. The district emphasizes outdoor education, environmental stewardship, and community involvement. Key landmarks in Pequot Lakes include Fish Trap Lake, which is known for boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as Sibley State Park, a nearby natural area that offers hiking, wildlife watching, and cross-country skiing. The Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway passes through the town, providing travelers with views of the region’s lakes and forests. The Pequot Lakes Chamber of Commerce is a great resource for information on local businesses and events. Pequot Lakes is also known for its Fourth of July Celebration, which features a parade, fireworks, and a community picnic. The Pequot Lakes Community Center serves as a venue for local events, and the nearby Pine River offers opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. As with much of the Brainerd Lakes Area, Pequot Lakes offers residents and visitors abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation and a peaceful, small-town atmosphere.

4. Crosby

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.1 square miles
• Population: 2,500 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Code: 56441
• Latitude: 46.4489° N
• Longitude: 93.9991° W

City Location and History

Crosby is located in the northeastern part of Crow Wing County, about 10 miles north of Brainerd. The town was founded in 1893, and its economy was originally based on mining, with the discovery of iron ore deposits being a major catalyst for its growth. Crosby was once a thriving mining town, with multiple iron mines operating in the area during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As the mining industry waned in the mid-20th century, the town shifted its focus to tourism and outdoor recreation, capitalizing on the surrounding forests and lakes.

Today, Crosby is known for its proximity to the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, a popular destination for mountain biking, hiking, and fishing. The town’s downtown area retains much of its historic charm, with several preserved buildings from its mining past. Crosby has also become a popular base for those exploring the surrounding lakes and forests, with many visitors coming to enjoy the outdoor recreation opportunities year-round.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Crosby is served by the Crosby-Ironton School District, which includes Crosby-Ironton High School, Crosby-Ironton Middle School, and Crosby-Ironton Elementary School. The district provides strong academic programs and extracurricular activities, with a focus on community involvement. One of Crosby’s most notable landmarks is the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, a former iron mining area that has been transformed into a park offering trails, lakes for fishing, and mountain biking opportunities. The Crosby Mine Pit is another key site, which is now used for recreational activities, including diving and fishing. The Crosby Heritage Center offers exhibits on the town’s mining history, and Serpent Lake provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The Paul Bunyan Trail, a popular biking and hiking trail, passes through Crosby, offering scenic views of the area. The Crosby Arts Center hosts art exhibitions and community events, contributing to the town’s vibrant cultural scene.