Cities and Towns in Judith Basin County, Montana
Founded in December 10, 1920, Judith Basin County is one of 56 counties in the state of Montana. Historically, Judith Basin County was formed from Cascade County and Fergus County. The city of Stanford is the county seat. With FIPS code of 45, Judith Basin County has a population of 2,044 and area of 1,870 square miles (4,843 km²).
List of all cities in Judith Basin County, MT alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Benchland, MT | 59462 | 406 |
| Geyser, MT | 59447 | 406 |
| Hobson, MT | 59452 | 406 |
| Moccasin, MT | 59462 | 406 |
| Raynesford, MT | 59469 | 406 |
| Stanford, MT | 59479 | 406 |
| Windham, MT | 59479 | 406 |
Major Cities and Towns in Judith Basin County, Montana
Stanford
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.72 sq mi
- Population: 500 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59479
- Latitude and Longitude: 47.1707° N, 110.2263° W
Location and History
Stanford, the county seat of Judith Basin County, is located in the heart of central Montana, nestled between the Little Belt and Snowy Mountains. The town was established as a railroad stop in the early 1900s when the Great Northern Railway extended its lines through the region. Stanford’s location at the junction of the Judith River and numerous agricultural lands made it an ideal center for farming and ranching activities, which still dominate the local economy. Like many towns in Montana, Stanford grew as a service hub for the surrounding homesteads and ranches, offering supplies, services, and a social gathering point for farmers. The town played an important role in the development of Montana’s agricultural sector, especially as wheat and barley became dominant crops in the region. Today, Stanford is a small, quiet town that retains much of its historical character, with a downtown area that includes several preserved buildings from its early 20th-century past.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stanford is served by the Stanford School District, which includes a high school, middle school, and elementary school. The schools are known for their strong community involvement and extracurricular programs, particularly in sports and the arts. The town’s major landmarks include the Judith Basin Historical Museum, which offers exhibits on local history, including the settlement of the region and its agricultural heritage. Stanford is also home to several churches, parks, and the Judith Basin County Fairgrounds, which hosts events like rodeos and agricultural fairs. The nearby Judith River provides opportunities for fishing and boating, while the surrounding mountains are popular for hiking, wildlife viewing, and hunting. Stanford’s location on the edge of the Little Belt Mountains offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and prairies, making it an appealing destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hobson
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.27 sq mi
- Population: 150 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59452
- Latitude and Longitude: 47.1559° N, 110.2593° W
Location and History
Hobson, a small town in Judith Basin County, is situated on the banks of the Judith River in central Montana. The town was founded as a railroad settlement in the early 1900s, primarily serving the needs of the surrounding farming and ranching communities. It was named after the Hobson family, prominent early settlers in the area. Originally, Hobson was a vital service center for local farmers and ranchers, offering a post office, general store, and other necessary services. The town grew modestly in the early 20th century but has remained small as its population gradually declined over the decades. Despite this, Hobson retains its small-town charm and continues to be an important hub for the surrounding agricultural activities. Today, Hobson is a peaceful, rural town with deep ties to Montana’s farming history and a close-knit community that is highly involved in local traditions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hobson is served by the Hobson School District, which includes a K-12 school. The school is known for its small class sizes and personalized attention, with a strong emphasis on academics and community activities. Key landmarks in Hobson include the local post office, historic downtown buildings, and several old barns and farmhouses that date back to the town’s early settlement days. The Judith River is a popular spot for fishing, and nearby, the Judith Mountains provide ample hiking, camping, and wildlife watching opportunities. The town is also home to a local community center that hosts events such as the annual Hobson Rodeo and various social gatherings. Although Hobson is small, its rich agricultural history and stunning natural surroundings make it an appealing place for visitors interested in rural Montana life.
Grass Range
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.34 sq mi
- Population: 140 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59032
- Latitude and Longitude: 47.0546° N, 109.7845° W
Location and History
Grass Range is a small, rural community located in the eastern part of Judith Basin County, Montana, near the edge of the Great Plains. Originally settled by homesteaders in the late 19th century, Grass Range was a product of the expansion of the railroad and the subsequent agricultural development of the region. The town’s name comes from the area’s natural grasslands, which provided excellent grazing for livestock and attracted ranchers and farmers alike. Grass Range was once a bustling hub for farmers, but as agricultural trends shifted and the population moved to larger towns, it became a quiet, peaceful settlement. The town remains an important part of the surrounding farming community, serving as a point of access for surrounding ranches. Today, Grass Range is known for its scenic rural landscapes and its connection to the region’s agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Grass Range is served by the Grass Range School District, which includes a small elementary and high school. The school is a central feature of the town, offering a tight-knit educational environment for local children. Major landmarks in Grass Range include the historic Grass Range Community Hall, which hosts a variety of local events and functions, as well as the local post office. The surrounding area offers numerous outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, and birdwatching, especially in the nearby Big Snowy Mountains. The town is also close to the famous Lewistown area, known for its historical significance in the region’s settlement. Grass Range is part of the larger Judith Basin agricultural landscape, which is known for its rich soils and productive farms, making it a great location for those interested in rural life and farming heritage.
