Cities and Towns in Keya Paha County, Nebraska
Founded in 1884, Keya Paha County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Keya Paha County was formed from Brown County and unorganized Indian territory. The city of Springview is the county seat. With FIPS code of 103, Keya Paha County has a population of 787 and area of 773 square miles (2,002 km²).
List of all cities in Keya Paha County, NE alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Mills, NE | 68753 | 402 |
| Newport, NE | 68759 | 402 |
| Springview, NE | 68778 | 402 |
Major Cities and Towns in Keya Paha County, Nebraska
Springview, Nebraska
Location and History
Springview is the county seat of Keya Paha County and is located in the north-central part of Nebraska, near the border with South Dakota. The town was founded in the late 1800s, with its establishment tied to the development of the railroad and the expansion of homesteading in the region. The town’s name is believed to have come from the spring-fed creek that runs through the area, providing a reliable water source for early settlers. Originally, Springview was a small agricultural community, with settlers primarily engaged in farming and livestock raising. As a county seat, the town became an important administrative center for the surrounding area. Over the years, Springview has remained a small but essential hub for local government and services. The surrounding region is known for its scenic beauty, including the Niobrara River and the Sandhills, which have attracted residents looking for a peaceful, rural lifestyle. Despite its size, Springview continues to play a vital role in the local economy and community life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Springview is served by the Keya Paha County Schools district, which includes Springview High School. The school is known for its strong academic programs and small student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized instruction. One of Springview’s most prominent landmarks is the historic courthouse, which serves as a focal point for county government. The Niobrara River, which runs near the town, is another significant landmark, offering opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The town is also home to the Niobrara State Park, which is popular for hiking, camping, and picnicking, and attracts visitors from across the region. Springview is known for hosting local events, such as the annual Springview Rodeo, which draws both residents and tourists for a celebration of the region’s ranching culture. The town also has a number of local parks, including one located along the Niobrara River, providing additional recreational opportunities. The town’s small-town charm and rich history make it a welcoming community for those seeking a slower pace of life.
- Area: 0.34 sq mi
- Population: 197 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 68778
- Latitude: 42.7923° N
- Longitude: 99.4501° W
Norden, Nebraska
Location and History
Norden is a small, unincorporated community in the northeastern part of Keya Paha County, Nebraska. Founded in the early 1900s, Norden grew as a rural agricultural settlement, centered on the farming and ranching industries. The name “Norden” is Scandinavian in origin, reflecting the influence of Scandinavian immigrants who settled in the area. These immigrants brought their agricultural knowledge and traditions, which helped shape the community’s culture and economy. The town never grew large, with most of the residents relying on farming and livestock as their primary sources of income. Although the arrival of the railroad boosted the early economy, Norden never saw the level of growth experienced by other nearby towns. Today, Norden remains a small rural community, with a population that has steadily declined over the years. Many of the remaining buildings are agricultural outposts or seasonal homes for those seeking to escape urban areas and enjoy the tranquility of the Nebraska Sandhills.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Norden is not home to its own school district, so students typically attend schools in nearby communities such as Springview or Valentine. The region is known for its scenic beauty, with landmarks including the surrounding Sandhills, which offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hunting, hiking, and birdwatching. The nearby Niobrara River, which flows through Keya Paha County, is a significant natural landmark and a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping. Norden’s proximity to the Niobrara National Scenic River makes it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in exploring Nebraska’s wilderness. The small, tight-knit community is known for its rural charm and offers a quiet, peaceful setting for those who enjoy the serenity of life in the Sandhills. There are no large events or festivals in Norden, but the surrounding area hosts occasional outdoor activities and agricultural fairs that bring together the local community.
- Area: N/A
- Population: Estimated less than 50
- Zip Codes: 68778 (Springview)
- Latitude: 42.8776° N
- Longitude: 99.3956° W
Mills, Nebraska
Location and History
Mills is a tiny, unincorporated community located in the southern part of Keya Paha County. Originally founded in the late 1800s, Mills developed as a rural settlement with a focus on agriculture and small-scale industry. The community was named after the nearby mills that processed grain for local farmers. Like many rural towns in Nebraska, Mills grew slowly over the years, with most of its population engaged in farming, cattle ranching, and other agricultural pursuits. The arrival of the railroad helped expand the town’s economy, but the town never developed into a significant population center. Mills’ population began to decline as transportation and modern farming methods reduced the need for many of the services once offered by such small towns. Today, Mills is considered a “ghost town,” with only a few buildings remaining, but it is still an area where local farmers live and work. The small community remains a reminder of the agricultural heritage that shaped much of the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
As an unincorporated community, Mills does not have its own school system. Students from Mills typically attend schools in the neighboring town of Springview or other nearby districts. Since the town no longer has a formal infrastructure, it does not have specific landmarks or public buildings of note. However, Mills is located near the Niobrara River and is part of the broader region known for its agricultural history. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking. The nearby Niobrara State Park is a popular destination for nature lovers, with hiking trails, wildlife watching, and camping options. Despite being a small, largely forgotten community, Mills still holds a place in the hearts of locals who remember its early days as a vibrant agricultural settlement.
- Area: N/A
- Population: Estimated less than 25
- Zip Codes: 68778 (Springview)
- Latitude: 42.8111° N
- Longitude: 99.2645° W
Long Pine, Nebraska (partly in Keya Paha County)
Location and History
Long Pine is located in the southwestern part of Keya Paha County, Nebraska, although much of the town lies within neighboring Brown County. It was founded in the late 1800s, with its history deeply tied to the railroad and the timber industry. The town was named for Long Pine Creek, which runs through the area and was a key water source for early settlers. Long Pine developed as a small railroad and timber town, serving as a center for the surrounding agricultural region. The town grew steadily through the early 20th century, becoming an important stop for rail passengers and freight. Today, Long Pine is a small town with a rich history, and it remains known for its scenic beauty, including the nearby Long Pine Creek and the surrounding forests. The town is often a point of interest for those traveling through the region, as it sits at the intersection of key highways that connect Nebraska to neighboring states.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Long Pine is served by the Long Pine Public Schools district, which includes Long Pine High School. The school district is known for its small size, but it provides a quality education with a focus on personalized learning and athletics. One of the most notable landmarks in the area is the Long Pine State Recreation Area, a beautiful natural area offering camping, hiking, and fishing along Long Pine Creek. The creek itself is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking. Long Pine is also home to the Long Pine Creek Falls, a scenic waterfall that draws visitors from all over the region. The town is close to the Nebraska National Forest, which offers additional outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography. Long Pine celebrates its natural heritage through events such as the annual Long Pine Days, which bring together residents and visitors for a festival of local food, music, and recreation.
- Area: 0.52 sq mi
- Population: 100 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 68743
- Latitude: 42.5626° N
- Longitude: 99.4337° W
