Cities and Towns in Lyman County, South Dakota
Founded in 1873, Lyman County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, Lyman County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Kennebec is the county seat. With FIPS code of 85, Lyman County has a population of 3,764 and area of 1,640 square miles (4,248 km²).
List of all cities in Lyman County, SD alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Edna, SD | 57568 | 605 |
Grass Rope, SD | 57569 | 605 |
Hilmoe, SD | 57568 | 605 |
Houston, SD | 57544 | 605 |
Iron Mountain, SD | 57544 | 605 |
Kennebec, SD | 57544 | 605 |
Lower Brule, SD | 57548 | 605 |
Lyman, SD | 57569 | 605 |
McClure, SD | 57576 | 605 |
Oacoma, SD | 57365 | 605 |
Presho, SD | 57568 | 605 |
Reliance, SD | 57569 | 605 |
Sweeney, SD | 57568 | 605 |
Vivian, SD | 57576 | 605 |
Major Cities and Towns in Lyman County, South Dakota
Kennebec, South Dakota
Location and History
Kennebec is the county seat of Lyman County, located in the central part of South Dakota, approximately 100 miles southeast of Pierre. The town was founded in 1907 and named after the Kennebec River in Maine, as many early settlers in the area were from the northeastern United States. Kennebec was originally a stop along the railroad and became an important center for the surrounding agricultural community. The town’s economy was rooted in the production of crops such as wheat, corn, and oats, as well as livestock. Like many small towns in South Dakota, Kennebec experienced significant population changes in the 20th century as the railroad diminished in importance and mechanization in farming reduced the need for rural labor. Despite this, Kennebec remains a key service center for surrounding farming communities. The town’s location along the Missouri River, not far from Lake Oahe, also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kennebec is served by the Lyman School District, which includes Lyman High School, known for its strong athletic programs, especially in basketball and volleyball. The district also offers quality education with a focus on community involvement and academic achievement. Local landmarks in Kennebec include the Lyman County Courthouse, which serves as the focal point for county government, and the Kennebec Depot, a historic site that reflects the town’s origins as a railroad stop. The town is also home to several parks, including the Kennebec City Park, which offers a space for picnics, sports, and community events. The nearby Missouri River and Lake Oahe are major draws for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. Kennebec is known for its quiet, rural charm and its historic character, making it a popular spot for visitors looking to explore the Missouri River’s beauty and history.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.9 square miles
- Population: 420 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57544
- Latitude: 43.9887° N
- Longitude: 99.6052° W
Presho, South Dakota
Location and History
Presho is located in the southeastern part of Lyman County, approximately 45 miles west of Chamberlain, and sits near the banks of the Missouri River. Established in 1906, Presho was named after a local businessman, David Presho, who was instrumental in the founding of the town. The town developed quickly due to its location along the railroad, which made it an important transportation and trade hub for the surrounding rural communities. Presho has a rich agricultural history, with early settlers focusing on cattle ranching and crop production. Over the years, Presho has maintained its position as a key service center for local farmers, providing essential goods and services. While the town has faced the challenges of rural depopulation in recent decades, it has remained a resilient community with a strong agricultural foundation. Its proximity to the Missouri River provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and hiking, contributing to its appeal as a rural retreat.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Presho is served by the Lyman School District, which includes Presho High School, a well-regarded institution offering a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students. The school district is known for its strong sports teams and community involvement. Major landmarks in Presho include the Lyman County Historical Museum, which showcases the area’s agricultural and railroad history, and the Presho Community Center, a gathering place for social events, meetings, and activities. Presho is also home to the Missouri River, which is a central feature of the area’s economy and recreation, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and nature exploration. The Presho City Park offers a place for picnics, sports, and outdoor activities. The town’s small-town charm and the surrounding natural beauty make it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a slower pace of life. The annual Presho Days celebration brings the community together with parades, live music, and festivities that highlight the area’s rural roots.
Key Statistics
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: 550 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57568
- Latitude: 43.8574° N
- Longitude: 99.1132° W
Oacoma, South Dakota
Location and History
Oacoma is a small town located in the southern part of Lyman County, just east of the Missouri River, and directly across from Chamberlain, South Dakota. The town was established in the late 19th century and serves as a gateway to the scenic beauty of the Missouri River, which has made it an attractive location for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Oacoma’s economy has historically been tied to the river, with early industries focused on fishing, trade, and river transportation. As the area grew, agriculture became the dominant economic driver, with farming and ranching playing significant roles in the local economy. The town’s name, Oacoma, is derived from the Lakota Sioux language and means “white eagle,” a nod to the region’s Native American heritage. Today, Oacoma is known for its natural beauty, its proximity to the Missouri River, and its role as a popular stop for travelers heading to nearby attractions, including the Badlands and the historic Lewis and Clark Trail.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oacoma is part of the Chamberlain School District, which serves the nearby town of Chamberlain and the surrounding areas, including Oacoma. Chamberlain High School is known for its academic excellence and athletic programs, which include strong football, basketball, and volleyball teams. Oacoma’s major landmarks include the Missouri River, which is a major draw for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Oacoma Visitor Center is a popular stop for tourists, offering information about local attractions, including the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trail and the nearby Lake Sharpe. The town is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Oacoma City Park, which offers picnic areas and spaces for sports and gatherings. Oacoma’s proximity to Chamberlain provides easy access to more cultural and historical attractions, including the Akta Lakota Museum, which showcases Native American history and culture.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: 150 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57365
- Latitude: 43.7986° N
- Longitude: 99.3077° W