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Cities and Towns in McLean County, North Dakota

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Founded in 1883, McLean County is one of 53 counties in the state of North Dakota. The city of Washburn is the county seat. With FIPS code of 55, McLean County has a population of 9,796 and area of 2,110 square miles (5,465 km²).

List of all cities in McLean County, ND alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Benedict, ND 58716 701
Butte, ND 58723 701
Coleharbor, ND 58531 701
Emmet, ND 58540 701
Falkirk, ND 58577 701
Garrison, ND 58540 701
Kief, ND 58723 701
Max, ND 58759 701
Mercer, ND 58559 701
Prairieview, ND 58759 701
Riverdale, ND 58565 701
Roseglen, ND 58775 701
Ruso, ND 58778 701
Turtle Lake, ND 58575 701
Underwood, ND 58576 701
Washburn, ND 58577 701
White Shield, ND 58540 701
Wilton, ND 58579 701

Major Cities and Towns in McLean County, North Dakota

McLean County, located in central North Dakota, offers a mix of agricultural heritage, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. The county is home to a number of small towns and communities, each with its own unique characteristics and contributions to the region’s development. Below is an overview of some of the major cities and towns in McLean County.

1. Garrison

Location and History

  • Area: 3.0 square miles
  • Population: 1,500 (approx.)
  • Zip Code: 58540
  • Latitude: 47.6504° N
  • Longitude: 101.4167° W

Garrison, located in the central part of McLean County, has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. The town was founded in 1885 as a service hub for the railroads and quickly became a key point for agriculture in the area. It was named after Lieutenant Colonel Richard B. Garrison, a prominent military figure during the westward expansion. The community grew rapidly during the early 20th century, driven by agriculture and the railroad, and became an essential trading center for the surrounding farming communities. Garrison is located near Lake Sakakawea, which has significantly contributed to the town’s growth in recent decades by boosting tourism and outdoor recreation. The town remains a critical center for local commerce and services in McLean County, with the area’s economy relying heavily on agriculture, including grain farming and livestock.

Schools and Landmarks

  • Major Schools: Garrison High School, Garrison Public School District
  • Landmarks: Lake Sakakawea, Garrison Dam, McLean County Museum

Garrison is home to Garrison High School, which serves as the main secondary school for the town and surrounding areas. The town’s educational system is part of the Garrison Public School District, offering a range of educational programs from kindergarten through high school. Garrison’s most notable landmarks include Lake Sakakawea, a massive reservoir that provides recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. The Garrison Dam, which is one of the largest earth-filled dams in the world, is a key feature of the region and plays an important role in flood control and water storage. The McLean County Museum in Garrison provides insights into the area’s history, featuring exhibits on the local Native American tribes, early settlers, and the development of the community. The town’s blend of outdoor recreation, rich history, and educational opportunities makes it an important part of McLean County.

2. Washburn

Location and History

  • Area: 1.2 square miles
  • Population: 1,100 (approx.)
  • Zip Code: 58577
  • Latitude: 47.3247° N
  • Longitude: 101.4192° W

Washburn, located in the southern part of McLean County along the Missouri River, was founded in 1883 and named after Charles Washburn, a railroad executive. The town developed as a vital trading post and a key transportation point due to its strategic location on the river and the railroad. Washburn was initially a small agricultural community but began to grow rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as the railroad brought in new settlers and boosted commerce. The town played an important role in the region’s development, particularly during the days of the steamboat trade on the Missouri River. Today, Washburn is known for its agricultural base, with farming and ranching still being significant industries, and it is also an attractive destination for tourists who come to experience the scenic beauty of the Missouri River and nearby historic sites.

Schools and Landmarks

  • Major Schools: Washburn High School, Washburn Public School District
  • Landmarks: Fort Mandan, Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site, Washburn City Park

Washburn High School is the primary secondary school in the town, serving local students and those from nearby rural areas. The town is served by the Washburn Public School District, which provides education from elementary through high school. The Fort Mandan historic site, located just outside of town, is a popular attraction and was the winter encampment for the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1804-1805. Another key landmark in Washburn is the Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site, which preserves the ancient villages of the Hidatsa, Mandan, and Arikara tribes. The site offers archaeological sites and educational programs about Native American history. Washburn City Park provides outdoor activities such as picnicking, sports, and access to the Missouri River, offering a relaxing environment for locals and visitors alike. The town’s blend of historical landmarks and recreational opportunities makes it a fascinating place to visit and live.

3. McClusky

Location and History

  • Area: 1.0 square miles
  • Population: 400 (approx.)
  • Zip Code: 58463
  • Latitude: 47.6884° N
  • Longitude: 99.9674° W

McClusky is a small town located in the northeastern part of McLean County. Founded in 1902, McClusky was named after McClusky Creek, which runs nearby. The town was established as a railroad stop and developed primarily around the agricultural needs of the surrounding region. Like many small towns in the area, McClusky thrived in the early 20th century, with wheat farming and ranching forming the backbone of its economy. The town has remained small but maintains its rural charm. McClusky’s location in the heart of North Dakota’s farming belt makes it an important agricultural center, although it also benefits from a growing tourism industry thanks to nearby lakes and recreation areas. Despite its size, McClusky has remained a tight-knit community, with a strong focus on local businesses, schools, and family life.

Schools and Landmarks

  • Major Schools: McClusky High School, McClusky Public School District
  • Landmarks: McClusky City Park, Long Lake, McClusky Creek

McClusky High School provides education for local high school students and is part of the McClusky Public School District, which also operates elementary and middle schools. McClusky’s most notable landmarks include the McClusky City Park, a small green space with picnic areas and a playground for families. The nearby Long Lake offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and camping, and it is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. McClusky Creek, the waterway after which the town was named, flows through the area, providing scenic views and opportunities for wildlife watching and outdoor activities. The town’s small-town feel, combined with access to outdoor recreation and a strong community, makes McClusky an ideal place to live for those seeking a quieter, rural lifestyle.

4. Riverdale

Location and History

  • Area: 2.1 square miles
  • Population: 400 (approx.)
  • Zip Code: 58565
  • Latitude: 47.5372° N
  • Longitude: 101.6111° W

Riverdale is a small town located on the western shores of Lake Sakakawea in McLean County. It was established in 1914 and grew as a small community centered around fishing and agriculture. The town’s development was influenced by its location along the Missouri River, which provided a natural resource for transportation and trade. Riverdale became a more significant destination after the construction of the Garrison Dam in the 1950s, which created Lake Sakakawea. The creation of the lake brought tourism and recreation opportunities, with visitors flocking to the area for boating, fishing, and camping. Over time, Riverdale has shifted from an agricultural town to a recreational community, although agriculture remains a significant part of the region’s economy. Today, Riverdale is popular with tourists looking to experience the natural beauty of Lake Sakakawea and the surrounding areas.

Schools and Landmarks

  • Major Schools: Riverdale Public School, Garrison High School (for higher grades)
  • Landmarks: Lake Sakakawea, Riverdale Marina, Garrison Dam

Riverdale Public School serves the local K-8 population, with older students attending Garrison High School or schools in nearby communities. Riverdale’s most prominent landmarks are Lake Sakakawea, offering numerous recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and camping, and the Riverdale Marina, which is a popular spot for water activities. The Garrison Dam is another key feature of the town, providing flood control, water storage, and power generation, while also creating the scenic Lake Sakakawea. The town’s natural setting, combined with its recreational facilities and close-knit community, makes it an attractive place for residents and visitors alike.

5. Turtle Lake

Location and History

  • Area: 1.1 square miles
  • Population: 700 (approx.)
  • Zip Code: 58575
  • Latitude: 47.4753° N
  • Longitude: 99.8441° W

Turtle Lake is located in the southeastern part of McLean County, named after the nearby Turtle Lake, which is a key feature of the town. Founded in the early 1900s, the town developed as a farming and ranching community. The area’s economy has been closely tied to agriculture, especially wheat and grain farming. Turtle Lake also became a key railroad town, with the railroad line helping to bring goods and settlers into the region. Over time, Turtle Lake’s economy has diversified, and it remains an agricultural center while benefiting from its proximity to lakes and outdoor recreation areas.

Schools and Landmarks

  • Major Schools: Turtle Lake-Mercer School, Turtle Lake Public School District
  • Landmarks: Turtle Lake, Turtle Lake Park, Local Agricultural Fairs

Turtle Lake is served by the Turtle Lake-Mercer School, which provides education for local students from elementary through high school. The Turtle Lake Park is a popular recreational area, providing picnic areas, playgrounds, and scenic views of the lake. Turtle Lake itself is a key feature of the town, offering fishing, boating, and other water activities. The town also hosts local agricultural fairs and events that celebrate its farming heritage and bring the community together. Turtle Lake’s mix of outdoor recreation, educational opportunities, and agricultural traditions makes it a charming small town in McLean County.

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