Cities and Towns in Gladwin County, Michigan
Founded in 1831, Gladwin County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Gladwin County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Gladwin is the county seat. With FIPS code of 51, Gladwin County has a population of 25,485 and area of 516 square miles (1,336 km²).
List of all cities in Gladwin County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Beaverton, MI | 48612 | 989 |
| Gladwin, MI | 48624 | 989 |
| Rhodes, MI | 48652 | 989 |
Major Cities and Towns in Gladwin County, Michigan
1. Gladwin
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.95 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,887 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48624
- Latitude: 43.9803° N
- Longitude: 84.4864° W
Location and History
Gladwin, the county seat of Gladwin County, is located in the heart of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, surrounded by the scenic beauty of rivers and forests. Founded in the 1870s, Gladwin grew as a lumber town, thanks to its proximity to the Cedar and Tittabawassee Rivers, which facilitated the transportation of timber. As the logging industry declined, Gladwin transitioned into a more agriculture-based economy while also attracting visitors for outdoor recreation, particularly hunting, fishing, and camping. The small-town charm and rich natural resources continue to shape the city’s identity today.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gladwin is served by the Gladwin Community Schools district, with Gladwin High School being the primary educational institution. Key landmarks include Gladwin City Park, which offers camping, sports facilities, and river access for fishing and kayaking. The Gladwin County Historical Society Museum preserves the area’s history with exhibits on logging, agriculture, and early settlers. The Gladwin Heights Golf Course is a local favorite for outdoor recreation. Ross Lake Park, located just outside of the city, provides opportunities for boating, swimming, and family picnics. The annual Gladwin County Fair, held in the summer, celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage with livestock shows, rides, and entertainment.
2. Beaverton
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.83 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,071 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48612
- Latitude: 43.8828° N
- Longitude: 84.4847° W
Location and History
Beaverton is located southwest of Gladwin, along the banks of the Tobacco River. The city was founded in 1896 as a logging town and was originally named Grand Forks before being renamed Beaverton due to the large number of beaver dams in the area. Like Gladwin, Beaverton’s economy was initially driven by the lumber industry. After the logging boom, the construction of the Beaverton Dam in 1925 created Ross Lake, transforming the town into a recreational destination. The town’s scenic lakeside setting continues to attract visitors, while the small community atmosphere makes it a peaceful place to live.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Beaverton is part of the Beaverton Rural Schools district, with Beaverton High School serving local students. Landmarks include Ross Lake Park, a popular destination for boating, swimming, and picnicking along the lake. The Beaverton Activity Center, housed in a former school building, serves as a hub for community events, fitness classes, and cultural activities. The Tobacco River Dam and Beaverton Dam are important historical features that shaped the development of the town. Each year, Beaverton hosts the Fourth of July Celebration, featuring fireworks, a parade, and family-friendly activities by the lake.
3. Billings Township
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 35.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,416 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48612
- Latitude: 43.8736° N
- Longitude: 84.3556° W
Location and History
Billings Township is a largely rural area located in the southern part of Gladwin County, near Wixom Lake. The township, like much of the region, was initially developed through the timber industry in the late 19th century. After the forests were cleared, agriculture became the dominant economic activity. The construction of the Edenville Dam on the Tittabawassee River in the early 20th century formed Wixom Lake, bringing recreational tourism to the area. Billings Township has since evolved into a mix of agricultural and residential areas, with many visitors and residents drawn to the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding forests.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Billings Township is part of the Beaverton Rural Schools district, with students attending Beaverton High School. Key landmarks include Wixom Lake, which offers boating, fishing, and camping, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Billings Township Park provides outdoor recreation with playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas. The Edenville Dam, despite its failure in 2020, remains a notable part of the township’s history and reshaped the area’s landscape. The Billings Township Hall is the center of community events and local governance, while the annual Township Picnic fosters a strong sense of community.
4. Secord Township
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 30.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,156 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48624
- Latitude: 44.0842° N
- Longitude: 84.3069° W
Location and History
Secord Township is located northeast of Gladwin, along the Secord Dam and the Tittabawassee River. The township was named after John Secord, an early settler who helped develop the area in the late 19th century. Secord Township originally thrived on logging and agriculture but later became a popular destination for outdoor recreation after the construction of the Secord Dam in 1925, which created Secord Lake. The lake attracted vacationers and residents alike, transforming the township into a serene retreat for fishing, boating, and nature activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Secord Township is served by the Gladwin Community Schools, with students attending schools in nearby Gladwin. Landmarks include Secord Lake, which offers excellent fishing, boating, and waterfront cottages. The Secord Township Park provides picnic areas, a boat launch, and scenic views of the lake. The Secord Dam has played a significant role in the community’s development, and although it experienced damage in recent years, it remains an important feature of the area. The township hosts the annual Secord Lake Cleanup, promoting environmental stewardship, and the Secord Township Fish Fry is a popular community event celebrating the area’s strong fishing culture.
5. Clement Township
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 35.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 861 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48624
- Latitude: 43.9131° N
- Longitude: 84.2900° W
Location and History
Clement Township is a rural area located southeast of Gladwin, with a history rooted in logging and farming. The township was established in the late 1800s during Michigan’s lumber boom, and like many communities in Gladwin County, its economy shifted to agriculture after the forests were cleared. Over time, Clement Township developed into a quiet residential and farming area, with its natural surroundings and proximity to Wixom Lake drawing visitors and seasonal residents who enjoy outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and camping.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clement Township is part of the Gladwin Community Schools district, with local students attending schools in nearby Gladwin. Wixom Lake, which lies partially within Clement Township, is the area’s primary recreational attraction, offering boating, fishing, and scenic views. Clement Township Park is a small but popular location for family gatherings, offering a playground and picnic facilities. The township also has several public hunting lands, attracting outdoorsmen from across the region. The Clement Township Fire Department plays a vital role in the community, and the annual Firemen’s Ball is a well-loved event that brings residents together to support local services and celebrate the township’s close-knit community atmosphere.
