Cities and Towns in Meade County, South Dakota

Founded in 1889, Meade County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, Meade County was formed from Lawrence County. The city of Sturgis is the county seat. With FIPS code of 93, Meade County has a population of 30,173 and area of 3,471 square miles (8,990 km²).

List of all cities in Meade County, SD alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Auance, SD	57626	605
Bear Butte, SD	57785	605
Bethlehem, SD	57769	605
Black Hawk, SD	57718	605
Bridger, SD	57748	605
Chalk Butte, SD	57787	605
Clough, SD	57785	605
Cooper, SD	57626	605
Edson, SD	57626	605
Ellsworth AFB, SD	57706	605
Enning, SD	57737	605
Fairpoint, SD	57785	605
Faith, SD	57626	605
Fort Meade, SD	57741	605
Grashul, SD	57769	605
Hereford, SD	57785	605
Howes, SD	57748	605
Inland, SD	57758	605
Marcus, SD	57785	605
Maurine, SD	57626	605
Moreau, SD	57626	605
Mud Butte, SD	57758	605
Opal, SD	57758	605
Piedmont, SD	57769	605
Plainview, SD	57748	605
Red Owl, SD	57787	605
Red Scaffold, SD	57748	605
Stoneville, SD	57787	605
Sturgis, SD	57785	605
Summerset, SD	57718	605
	57769	605
Tilford, SD	57769	605
Union Center, SD	57787	605
Usta, SD	57626	605
Volunteer, SD	57785	605
White Owl, SD	57792	605
Zeona, SD	57758	605

Major Cities and Towns in Meade County, South Dakota

Sturgis, South Dakota

Location and History

Sturgis, located in Meade County, South Dakota, is one of the most well-known cities in the state, primarily due to its association with the famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The city lies approximately 30 miles east of Rapid City and is situated near the Black Hills of South Dakota, offering a picturesque setting surrounded by forests and hills. Sturgis was founded in 1878 as a military fort, Fort Meade, during the Indian Wars. The fort was established to help maintain peace between Native American tribes and white settlers, and its presence played a significant role in the city’s early development. Sturgis grew as a trade and supply center during this period, and after the fort’s closure in 1947, the town continued to expand with a focus on tourism and local commerce. Today, Sturgis is world-famous for its annual motorcycle rally, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The town’s economy relies heavily on tourism, with attractions centered around outdoor activities, motorcycling, and the historic significance of the area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sturgis is served by the Sturgis Brown High School, which offers a variety of academic and extracurricular programs. The district also includes a middle school and several elementary schools. The city places a strong emphasis on education and community involvement, with the local school district being a focal point for residents. Sturgis also features several notable landmarks, including the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which draws visitors from around the world to celebrate motorcycle culture. The rally, which began in 1938, is the largest of its kind in the world. Another major landmark is the historic Fort Meade, which served as a base for the U.S. Army and is now a museum that tells the story of the American West. The Sturgis Historical Museum offers exhibits related to the city’s early history, while nearby, the Black Hills National Forest provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and outdoor activities. Sturgis also boasts a number of local shops, restaurants, and bars that cater to both residents and visitors, particularly during the annual rally.

Key Statistics

• Area: 2.6 square miles
• Population: 7,000 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 57785
• Latitude: 44.4095° N
• Longitude: 103.5090° W

Piedmont, South Dakota

Location and History

Piedmont is a small town located in the western part of Meade County, South Dakota, about 14 miles east of Sturgis and 20 miles from Rapid City. The town is nestled in the foothills of the Black Hills, providing stunning views and access to a variety of outdoor activities. Piedmont was established in the late 19th century and developed primarily as a railroad town. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s made the area more accessible and led to the growth of local businesses and residential settlements. The name “Piedmont” comes from the Italian word for “foot of the mountain,” which is an appropriate description of the town’s location at the base of the Black Hills. While Piedmont has a smaller population compared to other towns in Meade County, it has experienced growth in recent years as people have moved to the area seeking a more rural lifestyle with close proximity to the amenities of Rapid City. Today, Piedmont is a quiet, family-oriented community that serves as a gateway to the Black Hills and is ideal for those seeking outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and fishing.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Piedmont is part of the Rapid City Area School District, which provides educational opportunities through nearby schools. While Piedmont itself does not have a dedicated public school, students typically attend schools in the Rapid City district, including Rapid City High School. The town has a community center that serves as a gathering place for events and activities, fostering a strong sense of community among residents. Piedmont is known for its natural beauty, with landmarks including the nearby Black Hills National Forest, which provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. The Piedmont Valley, located just outside the town, is another natural feature that attracts visitors for hiking and exploration. The town is also home to the historic Piedmont Cemetery, which is a reminder of the area’s early pioneers. With its proximity to Rapid City, Piedmont offers easy access to additional landmarks such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Custer State Park, while maintaining a peaceful and rural atmosphere.

Key Statistics

• Area: 0.6 square miles
• Population: 1,200 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 57769
• Latitude: 44.0727° N
• Longitude: 103.3199° W

Summerset, South Dakota

Location and History

Summerset is a small town located just north of Rapid City in the southeastern part of Meade County. Situated on the western edge of the Black Hills, Summerset offers its residents the unique advantage of being close to both the urban amenities of Rapid City and the natural beauty of the hills. The town was established in the 1970s as a residential development and has steadily grown over the years. Summerset serves as a quiet, suburban community for people who work in Rapid City but prefer to live in a smaller, rural setting. The town’s development has been primarily residential, with several modern homes and developments springing up as people have sought to move out of the city and into the surrounding countryside. While it remains a small town in terms of population, Summerset’s location has made it an attractive choice for families and retirees who enjoy the peace and tranquility of rural life while being close to the economic and social opportunities available in Rapid City.

Major Schools and Landmarks

As part of the Rapid City Area School District, students in Summerset typically attend schools in Rapid City, including Rapid City High School and the nearby middle and elementary schools. The town is home to several community parks, where residents gather for picnics, sporting events, and other recreational activities. Summerset has become known for its proximity to the popular outdoor attractions in the Black Hills, such as the Badlands National Park and the nearby Black Hills National Forest. The town itself does not have significant historical landmarks, but it benefits from its location near important sites like the famous Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Crazy Horse Memorial, both of which are just a short drive away. Summerset’s blend of natural beauty, suburban comfort, and rural atmosphere make it a desirable place for families looking for a quieter lifestyle close to Rapid City.

Key Statistics

• Area: 0.9 square miles
• Population: 900 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 57718
• Latitude: 44.0843° N
• Longitude: 103.2234° W