Cities and Towns in Mahnomen County, Minnesota
Founded in 1906, Mahnomen County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Mahnomen County was formed from Norman County. The city of Mahnomen is the county seat. With FIPS code of 87, Mahnomen County has a population of 5,414 and area of 556.14 square miles (1,440 km²).
List of all cities in Mahnomen County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Beaulieu, MN | 56557 | 218 |
| Bejou, MN | 56516 | 218 |
| Lengby, MN | 56651 | 218 |
| Mahnomen, MN | 56557 | 218 |
| Naytahwaush, MN | 56566 | 218 |
Major Cities and Towns in Mahnomen County, Minnesota
1. Mahnomen, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 1.16 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56557
- Latitude: 47.3169° N
- Longitude: 95.9661° W
City Location and History
Mahnomen is the county seat of Mahnomen County, located in the northwestern part of Minnesota. The city is situated along the Wild Rice River, which is a significant waterway in the region. Mahnomen’s history is closely tied to the White Earth Indian Reservation, one of the largest Native American reservations in Minnesota. The town was originally established in the late 19th century as a trading post and grew quickly due to its location along major transportation routes, including railroads and river systems. The name “Mahnomen” comes from the Ojibwe word for “wild rice,” which is a staple food for the local Native American tribes. Historically, Mahnomen was a center for logging, trapping, and trading with Native American communities, and the surrounding forests and wetlands provided rich resources for settlers. The economy later shifted to agriculture, especially the cultivation of grains and other crops, as farming became more established in the area. Over time, Mahnomen has developed into a small but thriving community, balancing its Native American heritage with modern amenities and services.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mahnomen is served by the Mahnomen School District, with Mahnomen High School offering a well-rounded education that includes both academic programs and extracurricular activities. The school district is known for its athletic teams, particularly in basketball and track. Mahnomen’s landmarks include the White Earth Tribal and Community College, which serves both Native American and non-Native students, offering degree programs and vocational training. The Mahnomen County Museum is another important cultural landmark, showcasing the area’s rich history, including Native American culture and the region’s role in the fur trade and agriculture. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Sand Hill Lake Wildlife Management Area, a large protected area for birdwatching, hiking, and fishing. Mahnomen is also home to the Seven Clans Casino, one of the region’s top entertainment venues, offering gaming, dining, and lodging. The Mahnomen River offers opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, providing a scenic escape for residents and visitors. The town also hosts events such as the Mahnomen County Fair, which celebrates local agriculture and community spirit.
2. Waubun, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 1.02 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56589
- Latitude: 47.3292° N
- Longitude: 95.9142° W
City Location and History
Waubun is located in the central part of Mahnomen County, approximately 10 miles southeast of the county seat, Mahnomen. The town was founded in the late 19th century and was named after the Ojibwe word “Waubun,” which means “dawn” or “sunrise.” This name reflects the area’s position in the eastern part of the county and its ties to the Native American tribes that have long inhabited the region. Waubun’s economy, like much of the surrounding area, has traditionally been based on agriculture, particularly corn, soybeans, and other crops. The town has always been closely connected to the White Earth Indian Reservation, with many Native American families residing in and around the area. In the early 20th century, the construction of railroads through the region helped Waubun grow, making it an important agricultural hub for the surrounding farming communities. Despite its small size, Waubun has remained a vital part of Mahnomen County, known for its friendly community, quiet rural setting, and historical ties to Native American culture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Waubun is served by the Waubun Area School District, with Waubun High School providing local education to students. The school is known for offering a strong academic curriculum, as well as competitive sports teams in basketball, football, and track. One of Waubun’s notable landmarks is the Waubun Community Park, which offers a playground, picnic areas, and sports fields for residents to enjoy. The White Earth Reservation lies just to the north of Waubun, providing a rich cultural and historical landscape. The White Earth Tribal Government Center is also located nearby, offering insight into the history and sovereignty of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities at White Earth Lake, which provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Waubun is also close to the Sandy Lake Recreation Area, a popular spot for camping and hiking. The town has a strong sense of community and hosts annual events such as the Waubun Lions Club’s Annual Harvest Festival, which celebrates local agriculture and the area’s heritage with a parade, games, and community gatherings.
3. Beaulieu, Minnesota (Unincorporated Community)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 0.15 square miles
- Population: Approximately 50 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56576
- Latitude: 47.4283° N
- Longitude: 95.7917° W
City Location and History
Beaulieu is a small, unincorporated community located in the eastern part of Mahnomen County, close to the western edge of the White Earth Indian Reservation. Beaulieu was established in the late 19th century as a settlement primarily made up of Native American families, many of whom were from the White Earth Band of Ojibwe. The community’s name comes from the French word “beau lieu,” meaning “beautiful place,” which is fitting given its scenic location near the forested areas and lakes of northwestern Minnesota. Beaulieu has a rich history tied to the cultural and economic life of the White Earth Reservation, including traditional farming, hunting, and gathering practices. The community remains small but has a deep cultural connection to the land and the Ojibwe people, with many residents still engaged in traditional practices and crafts. Over time, the area has remained rural and relatively unchanged, with the community focusing on preserving its history and cultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Being an unincorporated community, Beaulieu does not have its own school system, but students typically attend the Mahnomen School District and Waubun School District, depending on their location. Mahnomen High School and Waubun High School serve as the primary institutions for the area’s youth. The most prominent landmark near Beaulieu is the White Earth Reservation, which is home to many Native American cultural sites and traditions. The White Earth Tribal Museum and Cultural Center are important landmarks that showcase the history and heritage of the Ojibwe people. Nearby, the Beaulieu Lake provides a beautiful and peaceful natural setting for fishing and wildlife watching. The small community of Beaulieu hosts gatherings and celebrations that honor Native American traditions, particularly those associated with the White Earth Tribe. One notable event in the region is the White Earth Tribal Powwow, which celebrates Ojibwe culture with dancing, drumming, and feasts. Beaulieu’s quiet, rural location and strong ties to Native American culture make it a unique part of Mahnomen County.
4. Twin Valley, Minnesota (Partially in Mahnomen County)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 0.93 square miles
- Population: Approximately 700 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56584
- Latitude: 47.3167° N
- Longitude: 95.8031° W
City Location and History
Twin Valley is a small city located in the southeastern corner of Mahnomen County, near the border of Norman County. It is named after two valleys formed by the Wild Rice River, which runs through the area. The town was founded in the late 1800s and was originally a stop along the railroad that served to connect the agricultural communities in the region to larger trade centers. Twin Valley quickly grew as a center for agriculture, particularly dairy farming, and the town became known for its prosperous farming community. Over time, the area became more diversified, with new industries such as retail and services contributing to its economy. The town also has a strong Scandinavian heritage, with many early settlers coming from Norway and Sweden. Today, Twin Valley remains a rural hub with a small, close-knit community that values its agricultural roots and quiet lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Twin Valley is part of the Norman County East School District, with Norman County East High School located in the neighboring town of Ada. The school offers a variety of academic and extracurricular programs, including sports teams and arts activities. One of Twin Valley’s main landmarks is Twin Valley Park, which includes sports fields, a playground, and a community gathering space. The Wild Rice River is another important feature of the town, offering opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and hiking. The Wild Rice River Trails provide scenic views and outdoor recreation, making the area a popular spot for nature enthusiasts. Twin Valley hosts the Twin Valley Fun Days, an annual celebration with a parade, live music, and food vendors, bringing together the local community. The town’s location near the Wild Rice River and its agricultural legacy make it an attractive place for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle.
