Cities and Towns in Keith County, Nebraska
Founded in 1873, Keith County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Keith County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Ogallala is the county seat. With FIPS code of 101, Keith County has a population of 8,279 and area of 1,061 square miles (2,748 km²).
List of all cities in Keith County, NE alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Brule, NE | 69127 | 308 |
| Bucktail, NE | 69155 | 308 |
| Keystone, NE | 69144 | 308 |
| Lemoyne, NE | 69146 | 308 |
| Ogallala, NE | 69153 | 308 |
| Paxton, NE | 69155 | 308 |
| Roscoe, NE | 69153 | 308 |
| Sarben, NE | 69155 | 308 |
| Thune, NE | 69155 | 308 |
Major Cities and Towns in Keith County, Nebraska
Ogallala, Nebraska
Location and History
Ogallala is the county seat of Keith County and is located in the southwestern part of Nebraska, near the Nebraska-Kansas border. The town was founded in 1854 and named after the Ogallala Sioux Tribe, who were native to the region. Ogallala’s strategic location along the historic Pony Express route and later the Union Pacific Railroad helped it grow into a key stop on the transcontinental railroad. During the late 19th century, Ogallala became a major cattle-driving town, serving as a critical hub for the famous cattle drives along the Chisholm Trail. The town boomed during the cattle-ranching era, with saloons, hotels, and other businesses springing up to cater to cowboys, traders, and travelers. Over time, Ogallala transitioned from a frontier town into a modern community with an economy centered on agriculture, tourism, and industry. Today, Ogallala remains a vital service hub for western Nebraska, with its historical roots evident in the local architecture and landmarks.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ogallala is served by the Ogallala Public Schools district, which includes Ogallala High School. The school district offers a range of academic programs, athletics, and extracurricular activities to students. One of the major landmarks in Ogallala is the Front Street, a reconstructed Old West street featuring historic buildings, shops, and museums that evoke the town’s cattle-driving and railroad history. Ogallala is also home to Lake McConaughy, Nebraska’s largest reservoir, which offers numerous recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and camping. The lake and its surrounding state park draw visitors from across the region for outdoor activities. Ogallala also boasts the Ogallala Country Club, which features a scenic golf course. The town’s annual Ogallala Rodeo, a celebration of the area’s ranching heritage, draws both locals and visitors for competitive rodeo events, parades, and entertainment. Additionally, the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, located nearby, honors the life of William “Buffalo Bill” Cody, a key figure in the history of the American West.
- Area: 3.04 sq mi
- Population: 4,735 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 69153
- Latitude: 41.1242° N
- Longitude: 101.7119° W
Brule, Nebraska
Location and History
Brule is a small village located in the southwestern part of Keith County, Nebraska, along the South Platte River. The town was founded in the early 1870s and was originally known as a railroad stop along the Union Pacific Railroad. Brule’s name is derived from the French word for “burnt,” referring to the area’s history of wildfires and scorched earth. The town’s economy initially relied on agriculture, particularly irrigated farming along the South Platte River. Like many small towns in Nebraska, Brule developed as an agricultural and trade center for the surrounding rural communities. However, the town has experienced a slow decline in population over the years, and it remains a quiet village with a close-knit community. Despite its small size, Brule’s rural charm, combined with its location along the river, has made it a peaceful place to live and a quiet stop for those traveling through western Nebraska.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Brule is served by the Brule Public Schools district, which includes Brule High School. The school district offers a range of academic programs for a small student population, including athletics, arts, and community involvement. Brule is located near the South Platte River, which provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. While the town itself does not have major landmarks, it is located close to some of the region’s natural attractions. The nearby Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, one of the largest bodies of water in Nebraska, offers camping, hiking, and boating. The town’s rural atmosphere, combined with its proximity to larger towns like Ogallala, allows residents and visitors to enjoy a quiet, country lifestyle while still being close to more urban amenities.
- Area: 0.32 sq mi
- Population: 432 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 69127
- Latitude: 41.1985° N
- Longitude: 101.4206° W
Paxton, Nebraska
Location and History
Paxton is a small village located in the northeastern part of Keith County, Nebraska, along the Union Pacific Railroad. The town was founded in the late 1800s and named after Paxton, Illinois. Initially, Paxton served as a stop for travelers along the railroad, and its location near the North Platte River helped develop its agricultural economy. The town grew modestly in the early 20th century and became a key shipping point for cattle and crops from the surrounding ranches and farms. Agriculture remains an important part of Paxton’s economy, though the town has also become a service center for surrounding rural areas. Paxton’s history is closely tied to the rise and decline of the railroad, with several buildings still standing as reminders of its past as a railroad town.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Paxton is served by the Paxton Consolidated Schools district, which includes Paxton High School. The school offers a strong academic curriculum, with a variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics and student clubs. One of Paxton’s key landmarks is the Paxton Public Library, which serves as a community center and resource for residents. The town is also located near the North Platte River, offering recreational opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking. Paxton is a gateway to the larger Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, which is just a short drive away and offers a range of outdoor activities, including water sports, camping, and hiking. Although Paxton itself is small, it is known for its friendly, close-knit community and its agricultural heritage, which is celebrated during the annual Paxton Days, a local event that includes a parade, games, and community activities.
- Area: 0.56 sq mi
- Population: 617 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 69155
- Latitude: 41.0939° N
- Longitude: 101.4693° W
Dix, Nebraska
Location and History
Dix is a small village located in the western part of Keith County, Nebraska. The town was founded in the early 1900s, primarily as a stop on the Union Pacific Railroad. The name “Dix” was chosen by railroad officials in honor of a railroad executive. As with many small towns in the region, Dix grew around agriculture, especially cattle ranching, and its economy was initially tied to the transportation of livestock and grain. Over time, the town grew into a quiet rural community, and today, Dix serves as a residential area for those who commute to larger towns nearby. Despite its small population, Dix remains an important service hub for surrounding farms and ranches.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dix is part of the Kimball Public Schools district, with students typically attending schools in nearby Kimball. The town does not have major landmarks, but it is located near the scenic prairie landscapes that characterize western Nebraska. The surrounding region offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, and hiking, making it an attractive area for nature lovers. While Dix is known more for its quiet rural lifestyle than for tourism, its proximity to Lake McConaughy and the North Platte River allows residents to enjoy access to outdoor recreation. The town remains a quiet retreat for those seeking a slower pace of life.
- Area: 0.18 sq mi
- Population: 116 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 69133
- Latitude: 41.1856° N
- Longitude: 101.5464° W
