Cities and Towns in Lewis County, Idaho
Founded in 1911, Lewis County is one of 44 counties in the state of Idaho. Historically, Lewis County was formed from Nez Perce County. The city of Nezperce is the county seat. With FIPS code of 61, Lewis County has a population of 3,715 and area of 479 square miles (1,241 km²).
List of all cities in Lewis County, ID alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Craigmont, ID | 83523 | 208 |
| Culdesac, ID | 83548 | 208 |
| Kamiah, ID | 83536 | 208 |
| Nezperce, ID | 83543 | 208 |
| Reubens, ID | 83548 | 208 |
| Winchester, ID | 83555 | 208 |
Major Cities and Towns in Lewis County, Idaho
Kamiah
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.12 square miles
- Population: 1,295 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83536
- Latitude: 46.2271° N
- Longitude: 116.0265° W
City Location and History
Kamiah is located in the northern part of Lewis County, along the banks of the Clearwater River. The city has a rich history that dates back to the time of the Nez Perce Tribe, who consider Kamiah a sacred place and used it as a wintering ground for their horses. The name “Kamiah” is derived from the Nez Perce word meaning “place of many rope litters.” The area was also significant during the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which camped near Kamiah in 1806. The town itself was established in the late 19th century as a trading post and quickly grew as a center for logging, agriculture, and trade. Kamiah’s history is deeply intertwined with both the Nez Perce culture and the early settlement of the Clearwater Valley.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kamiah is served by the Kamiah Joint School District, which includes Kamiah High School, Kamiah Middle School, and Kamiah Elementary School. Significant landmarks in Kamiah include the Heart of the Monster, a sacred Nez Perce site located just outside the city, which plays a crucial role in the tribe’s origin story. The Clearwater River is a key natural landmark, offering excellent fishing, rafting, and scenic beauty. Kamiah is also home to several historic buildings, such as the Lewis and Clark Long Camp, which commemorates the explorers’ time in the area. The city celebrates its heritage with events like the annual Kamiah BBQ Days, which brings together the community for parades, food, and entertainment.
Craigmont
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.55 square miles
- Population: 495 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83523
- Latitude: 46.2383° N
- Longitude: 116.4715° W
City Location and History
Craigmont is located in the southern part of Lewis County, on the Camas Prairie. The town was established in 1920 through the merger of two neighboring towns, Ilo and Vollmer, which were initially settled in the late 19th century. The name “Craigmont” was chosen to honor Craig Mountain, which lies to the southeast of the town. The town developed as an agricultural center, with the fertile prairie land surrounding it being ideal for wheat and grain farming. The arrival of the railroad further boosted Craigmont’s growth, making it a key transportation hub for agricultural products. Although the population has remained small, Craigmont has maintained its agricultural roots and continues to be a vital part of the region’s farming community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Craigmont is served by the Highland School District, with Highland High School and Highland Elementary School providing education to local students. Landmarks in Craigmont include the historic Ilo-Vollmer Community Center, which serves as a gathering place for events and meetings, reflecting the town’s strong sense of community. The surrounding Camas Prairie offers a picturesque landscape of rolling hills and farmland, ideal for outdoor activities such as hunting, bird watching, and exploring. The town also hosts the annual Craigmont Prairie Days, a celebration of the town’s agricultural heritage that features parades, games, and local food. The event is a highlight of the year, showcasing the close-knit community and rural charm of Craigmont.
Nezperce
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.61 square miles
- Population: 466 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83543
- Latitude: 46.2316° N
- Longitude: 116.2407° W
City Location and History
Nezperce is the county seat of Lewis County, located in the heart of the Camas Prairie. The town was established in the late 19th century and named after the Nez Perce Tribe, which has deep historical ties to the region. Nezperce was originally a farming community, with its economy centered on wheat, barley, and legume crops that thrive in the fertile prairie soil. The town grew steadily with the expansion of agriculture and the arrival of the railroad, which facilitated the transport of crops to larger markets. Nezperce has retained much of its small-town charm, with a strong emphasis on community and a connection to the land.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Nezperce is served by the Nezperce School District, with Nezperce School providing education from kindergarten through high school. Key landmarks in Nezperce include the Lewis County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the center of county government. The town is also home to several historic buildings that reflect its early 20th-century architecture, adding to its quaint, rural atmosphere. The surrounding Camas Prairie provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hunting, fishing, and hiking. Nezperce celebrates its agricultural heritage with the annual Nezperce Prairie Day, which includes parades, rodeos, and other community activities that bring together residents and visitors to celebrate the town’s history and culture.
Winchester
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.55 square miles
- Population: 308 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83555
- Latitude: 46.2388° N
- Longitude: 116.6218° W
City Location and History
Winchester is a small town located in the northern part of Lewis County, near Winchester Lake. The town was established in 1900 by the Craig Mountain Lumber Company, which built a sawmill to process the abundant timber in the area. Winchester quickly grew as a logging town, with its economy heavily dependent on the timber industry. The town was named after the Winchester rifle, reflecting the frontier spirit of the time. Although the logging industry has declined, Winchester has transformed into a quiet, rural community known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly around Winchester Lake.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Winchester is part of the Highland School District, and students typically attend schools in nearby Craigmont, such as Highland High School. Winchester Lake State Park is the town’s most prominent landmark, offering a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. The park is a popular destination for both residents and visitors, providing a peaceful retreat in a picturesque setting. The Winchester Museum, located in the town, showcases the history of the area, including its logging heritage and the development of the community. Winchester also hosts the annual Winchester Days, a celebration that features a parade, games, and community gatherings, reflecting the town’s small-town charm and strong sense of community.