Cities and Towns in Jackson County, South Dakota
Founded in 1914, Jackson County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, Jackson County was formed from Stanley County. The city of Kadoka is the county seat. With FIPS code of 71, Jackson County has a population of 2,878 and area of 1,869 square miles (4,841 km²).
List of all cities in Jackson County, SD alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Belvidere, SD | 57521 | 605 |
| Headlee Ranch, SD | 57750 | 605 |
| Hiles, SD | 57577 | 605 |
| Hisle, SD | 57577 | 605 |
| Interior, SD | 57750 | 605 |
| Kadoka, SD | 57543 | 605 |
| Long Valley, SD | 57547 | 605 |
| Potato Creek, SD | 57750 | 605 |
| Wanblee, SD | 57577 | 605 |
Major Cities and Towns in Jackson County, South Dakota
Kadoka, South Dakota
Location and History
Kadoka, the largest town in Jackson County, South Dakota, is situated near the intersection of U.S. Highway 73 and Interstate 90. Located approximately 60 miles east of the Black Hills, Kadoka is a small community that serves as a gateway to the Badlands National Park, one of South Dakota’s most iconic landscapes. Kadoka was founded in the late 19th century, around 1886, when the Chicago & North Western Railway established a depot in the area. The name “Kadoka” is derived from a Lakota Sioux word meaning “a place to rest.” The town quickly grew as a railroad stop and trading post for settlers in the region. Agriculture has always been a significant part of the local economy, with cattle ranching, farming, and tourism contributing to Kadoka’s economy. Over the years, the town’s population has fluctuated, with the majority of its residents working in agriculture or in service-related industries that support the surrounding rural area. Despite its small size, Kadoka has played an important role in connecting people traveling through South Dakota, especially along the I-90 corridor.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kadoka is served by the Kadoka Area School District, which operates both elementary and high schools, offering a range of academic and extracurricular programs. The schools emphasize both academic rigor and hands-on learning, preparing students for college or careers. In addition to education, Kadoka is home to several landmarks that highlight its cultural and natural significance. The Kadoka Museum is a local highlight, featuring exhibits about the town’s history, Native American heritage, and the early pioneers who settled in the area. Kadoka also serves as a key stop for travelers heading to the Badlands, with its proximity to the park attracting visitors interested in hiking, photography, and sightseeing. Other notable landmarks include the famous “Kadoka Corn Palace,” a unique roadside attraction celebrating local culture, and the local heritage sites related to the town’s history as a railroad stop. Kadoka is also close to the Badlands, which is a major draw for tourists, providing a spectacular backdrop for outdoor recreation and a reminder of the area’s rich natural history.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.68 square miles
- Population: 700 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57543
- Latitude: 43.7476° N
- Longitude: 101.5005° W
Interior, South Dakota
Location and History
Interior is a small town located in Jackson County, South Dakota, situated on U.S. Highway 44, approximately 10 miles south of Kadoka. The town, which sits at the edge of the Badlands National Park, has a long history tied to the railroad, agriculture, and tourism. Founded in the early 20th century, Interior was initially established as a railroad stop, serving as a supply point for travelers and settlers heading west. The town’s name is derived from its central location relative to the surrounding landscapes of the region, serving as a “gateway” to the interior parts of the state. Though small, Interior benefited from its position near major transportation routes, allowing for trade and commerce to thrive for several decades. However, as the railroad industry waned and agricultural practices shifted, Interior saw a decline in population, as many rural communities across South Dakota did. Despite this, the town remains a vital part of the region’s history and continues to support a small, but dedicated community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Interior is part of the Kadoka Area School District, with students typically attending Kadoka’s schools. The town does not have its own school facilities, but its students benefit from the district’s strong educational system. As a tourist town, Interior’s landmarks are primarily tied to its proximity to the Badlands National Park, which is just a short drive away. The town’s central location makes it a popular stop for visitors heading to the park, and several local businesses cater to tourists, offering souvenirs, snacks, and lodging. One of the most notable features of Interior is the Badlands Overlook, which offers panoramic views of the rugged, unique landscapes of the Badlands. The town also celebrates its rural heritage with several historic buildings, including old homesteads and agricultural structures that reflect the region’s pioneer past. The town’s charm lies in its simplicity and its connection to the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it. With its quiet atmosphere, Interior offers a glimpse into South Dakota’s rural character and serves as a peaceful escape for those looking to explore the Badlands.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.2 square miles
- Population: 100 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57750
- Latitude: 43.7364° N
- Longitude: 101.6000° W
Wanblee, South Dakota
Location and History
Wanblee is a small community in the eastern part of Jackson County, located along U.S. Highway 73. The town is situated on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, which is home to the Oglala Lakota people, and it has a rich history tied to Native American culture and the history of the Lakota Nation. Founded in the early 20th century, Wanblee developed as a small trading post and agricultural hub, although its growth was slower than neighboring towns due to its more remote location. The name “Wanblee” is derived from the Lakota word for “eagle,” a symbol of strength and resilience. The town served as a vital stop for local farmers, ranchers, and the Lakota people, who have lived in the region for centuries. Agriculture, along with the proximity to Native American culture and resources, has shaped the economy of Wanblee, although the area continues to face economic challenges due to its location within the Pine Ridge Reservation. The town remains a small, tight-knit community that plays a role in preserving the history and culture of the Lakota people.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Wanblee is served by the Wanblee School District, which operates the Wanblee School, providing education to students from kindergarten through high school. The school is an essential part of the community, offering a range of educational programs, sports, and cultural activities that celebrate the heritage of the Lakota people. The town is home to several significant landmarks related to Native American culture, including the nearby Wounded Knee site, where the Wounded Knee Massacre took place in 1890. This tragic event remains a crucial part of the Lakota people’s history, and the Wounded Knee Memorial, located nearby, serves as a place for reflection and remembrance. Wanblee also has a number of historical structures, such as old trading posts and cabins, which reflect the town’s early settlement days and agricultural history. Despite its small size, Wanblee’s connection to Native American culture and the historic events of the Lakota people make it an important site in South Dakota’s history.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: 150 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57577
- Latitude: 43.3667° N
- Longitude: 101.5572° W
