Cities and Towns in Harding County, South Dakota

Founded in 1909, Harding County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, Harding County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Buffalo is the county seat. With FIPS code of 63, Harding County has a population of 1,327 and area of 2,671 square miles (6,918 km²).

List of all cities in Harding County, SD alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Buffalo, SD	57720	605
Camp Crook, SD	57724	605
Gustave, SD	57724	605
Ludlow, SD	57755	605
Olson, SD	57755	605
Ralph, SD	57650	605
Redig, SD	57776	605
Reva, SD	57651	605
Sky Ranch, SD	57724	605
Wilson Corner, SD	57755	605

Major Cities and Towns in Harding County, South Dakota

Buffalo

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: Approximately 0.4 square miles
• Population: Around 330 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Code: 57720
• Latitude: 45.5867° N
• Longitude: 103.5486° W

Location and History

Buffalo, the county seat of Harding County, is located in the northwestern corner of South Dakota. Established in the early 20th century, the town was named for the bison that once roamed the Great Plains. Buffalo grew as a center for ranching and trade, reflecting the region’s rich grasslands and open ranges. Its role as the county’s administrative hub solidified its importance to the local community, providing essential services and governance.

Major Schools and Landmarks

The Harding County School District serves Buffalo, offering K-12 education with a focus on rural values and academic excellence. Key landmarks include the Harding County Courthouse, a historic building in the center of town, and Buffalo City Park, which hosts community events and outdoor activities. The surrounding grasslands and proximity to the Slim Buttes offer opportunities for hunting, hiking, and birdwatching, making Buffalo a gateway to the natural beauty of Harding County.

Camp Crook

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: Approximately 0.2 square miles
• Population: Around 60 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Code: 57724
• Latitude: 45.5500° N
• Longitude: 104.0092° W

Location and History

Camp Crook, located near the Montana border in Harding County, was established in the late 19th century as a military camp to protect settlers during conflicts with Native American tribes. Named after General George Crook, a prominent figure in the Indian Wars, the town later transitioned into a ranching and trading community. Its location near the Little Missouri River made it a vital point for cattle operations and transportation.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Camp Crook students typically attend schools in Buffalo. Landmarks include the Camp Crook Community Hall, which hosts local gatherings and events, and the nearby Little Missouri River, which offers fishing and recreational opportunities. The surrounding open plains and scenic buttes provide a backdrop for outdoor activities such as hunting and horseback riding, preserving the area’s Wild West charm.

Ludlow

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: Rural community (no incorporated area)
• Population: Around 50 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Code: 57755
• Latitude: 45.9097° N
• Longitude: 103.6311° W

Location and History

Ludlow, a small unincorporated community in northern Harding County, was founded in the early 20th century as a ranching and farming settlement. Named after a prominent local figure, Ludlow developed as a stop for travelers and cattle operations in the region. Although its population remains small, Ludlow continues to embody the rugged, independent spirit of the prairie.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Students from Ludlow typically attend schools in Buffalo or nearby towns. Landmarks include the Ludlow Community Hall, a gathering place for local events, and the surrounding prairies and ranchlands, which highlight the area’s agricultural significance. The nearby Cave Hills provide opportunities for hiking, fossil hunting, and exploring geological formations, making Ludlow a unique and scenic part of Harding County.