Cities and Towns in Josephine County, Oregon
Founded in 1856, Josephine County is one of 36 counties in the state of Oregon. Historically, Josephine County was formed from Western half of Jackson County. The city of Grants Pass is the county seat. With FIPS code of 33, Josephine County has a population of 88,346 and area of 1,640 square miles (4,248 km²).
List of all cities in Josephine County, OR alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Cave Junction, OR | 97523 | 541 |
| 97531 | 541 | |
| Galice, OR | 97532 | 541 |
| Grants Pass, OR | 97526 | 541 |
| 97527 | 541 | |
| 97528 | 541 | |
| 97543 | 541 | |
| Hugo, OR | 97526 | 541 |
| Kerby, OR | 97523 | 541 |
| 97531 | 541 | |
| Merlin, OR | 97532 | 541 |
| Murphy, OR | 97533 | 541 |
| O Brien, OR | 97534 | 541 |
| Selma, OR | 97538 | 541 |
| Sunnyvalley, OR | 97497 | 541 |
| Wilderville, OR | 97543 | 541 |
| Williams, OR | 97544 | 541 |
| Wolf Creek, OR | 97497 | 541 |
Major Cities and Towns in Josephine County, Oregon
Grants Pass
Overview
Grants Pass, the county seat of Josephine County, is situated along the Rogue River in southwestern Oregon. Established in the 1860s as a stagecoach stop, the city was named in honor of General Ulysses S. Grant’s victory at Vicksburg during the Civil War. The arrival of the Oregon-California Railroad in 1884 spurred growth, transforming Grants Pass into a commercial hub for the region. Over time, the city has evolved into a vibrant community known for its rich history, outdoor recreational opportunities, and cultural events.
- Area: Approximately 11.03 square miles
- Population: Around 37,000 residents
- ZIP Codes: 97526, 97527
- Latitude: 42.4390° N
- Longitude: 123.3284° W
Education and Landmarks
Grants Pass is served by the Grants Pass School District, which includes Grants Pass High School, known for its comprehensive academic and extracurricular programs. A notable landmark in the city is the historic Caveman Bridge, an iconic structure spanning the Rogue River. The downtown area features the G Street Historic District, showcasing preserved buildings that reflect the city’s architectural heritage. Additionally, the annual Boatnik festival, held since 1959, celebrates the community’s connection to the Rogue River with boat races, parades, and various family-friendly activities.
Cave Junction
Overview
Cave Junction is located in the Illinois Valley of southwestern Oregon, approximately 30 miles southwest of Grants Pass. Established in the early 20th century, the city was named for its proximity to the Oregon Caves National Monument and its location at the junction of Redwood Highway and Caves Highway. Historically, Cave Junction served as a hub for the timber industry and as a gateway for tourists visiting the nearby caves. Today, it continues to attract visitors interested in exploring natural attractions and experiencing the charm of a small-town community.
- Area: Approximately 1.82 square miles
- Population: Around 2,000 residents
- ZIP Code: 97523
- Latitude: 42.1665° N
- Longitude: 123.6484° W
Education and Landmarks
Cave Junction is part of the Three Rivers School District, with Illinois Valley High School serving the local student population. A significant landmark is the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve, featuring marble caves and a historic chateau, offering guided tours and hiking opportunities. The nearby Siskiyou Mountains provide a backdrop for various outdoor activities, including hiking and bird watching. The city also hosts the annual Cave Junction Jubilee, celebrating the community’s heritage with parades, music, and local crafts.
Merlin
Overview
Merlin is an unincorporated community located approximately 9 miles northwest of Grants Pass. Established in the late 19th century, it was named after a railroad worker’s hometown in Illinois. The community developed as a result of the railroad expansion and served as a shipping point for local timber and agricultural products. Over time, Merlin has become known as a gateway to the Rogue River, particularly for recreational activities such as fishing and white-water rafting.
- Area: Approximately 1.5 square miles
- Population: Around 2,000 residents
- ZIP Code: 97532
- Latitude: 42.5007° N
- Longitude: 123.4281° W
Education and Landmarks
Merlin is served by the Three Rivers School District, with Manzanita Elementary School located within the community. A notable landmark is the Hellgate Canyon, a scenic section of the Rogue River known for its dramatic cliffs and popular jet boat excursions. The area also features the Galice Resort, offering lodging and river access for various recreational activities. The nearby Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest provides ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
Selma
Overview
Selma is an unincorporated community situated in the Illinois Valley, approximately 20 miles southwest of Grants Pass. Established in the late 19th century, the community was named after Selma, Alabama. Historically, Selma served as a center for logging and agriculture, with its economy closely tied to the surrounding forests and farmlands. In recent years, Selma has become known for its proximity to natural attractions and as a quiet residential area.
- Area: Approximately 2.5 square miles
- Population: Around 1,500 residents
- ZIP Code: 97538
- Latitude: 42.2654° N
- Longitude: 123.6031° W
Education and Landmarks
Selma is part of the Three Rivers School District, with Evergreen Elementary School serving the local community. A significant landmark is the Deer Creek Center for Field Research and Education, operated by the Siskiyou Field Institute, offering educational programs and workshops focused on the natural sciences. The nearby Eight Dollar Mountain Botanical Area is renowned for its unique serpentine soils and diverse plant species, attracting botanists and nature enthusiasts. The Illinois River, flowing through the area, provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and picnicking.
Williams
Overview
Williams is an unincorporated community located in the Williams Valley, approximately 15 miles southwest of Grants Pass. Established in the mid-19th century, it was named after Captain Robert Williams, a pioneer settler. The community’s history is rooted in agriculture and mining, with early settlers engaged in farming and gold prospecting. Today, Williams is known for its rural lifestyle, organic farms, and as a haven for artists and alternative lifestyles.