Cities and Towns in Mercer County, North Dakota
Founded in 1875, Mercer County is one of 53 counties in the state of North Dakota. The city of Stanton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 57, Mercer County has a population of 8,323 and area of 1,045 square miles (2,707 km²).
List of all cities in Mercer County, ND alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Beulah, ND | 58523 | 701 |
Golden Valley, ND | 58541 | 701 |
Hazen, ND | 58545 | 701 |
Pick City, ND | 58545 | 701 |
Stanton, ND | 58571 | 701 |
Zap, ND | 58580 | 701 |
Major Cities and Towns in Mercer County, North Dakota
Mercer County, located in the central part of North Dakota, is home to a variety of small towns and communities that offer a mix of agricultural heritage and modern development. With its rich history tied to early settlement and its evolving economy influenced by energy and tourism, Mercer County is a unique region. Below is an exploration of the major cities and towns in Mercer County, each with its own local charm and historical significance.
1. Beulah
Location and History
- Area: 2.1 square miles
- Population: 3,000 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 58523
- Latitude: 47.2656° N
- Longitude: 101.7743° W
Beulah is located in the southwestern corner of Mercer County, situated near the shores of Lake Beulah. The town was founded in 1914 and quickly became a hub for agricultural activities in the region, with wheat farming being particularly prominent. As a small railroad town, Beulah benefited from its position along the railroad lines, which facilitated the transport of agricultural products. Over time, Beulah’s economy diversified as the oil industry began to grow in the region. The town’s proximity to the Missouri River and Lake Beulah makes it an attractive location for tourism and recreation, with boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities drawing visitors to the area. The town has grown steadily in recent years, largely due to its role as a service center for the surrounding agricultural and energy sectors.
Schools and Landmarks
- Major Schools: Beulah High School, Beulah Public School District
- Landmarks: Beulah City Park, Mercer County Courthouse, Lake Beulah
Beulah is home to Beulah High School, which serves as the main high school for the town and the surrounding rural area. The Beulah Public School District provides a full range of educational programs from elementary through secondary school. The town’s City Park is a key recreational space, offering facilities for picnics, sports, and outdoor activities, making it a popular gathering spot for families. Lake Beulah is another major landmark, offering boating, fishing, and camping opportunities in the scenic area surrounding the town. The Mercer County Courthouse in Beulah is an important local landmark and a center for county government. Beulah’s combination of historical sites, recreational opportunities, and modern amenities makes it a vital part of Mercer County.
2. Hazen
Location and History
- Area: 2.3 square miles
- Population: 2,500 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 58545
- Latitude: 47.2962° N
- Longitude: 101.6128° W
Hazen is situated in the central part of Mercer County and has a history deeply rooted in agriculture and railroad development. Founded in 1907, the town was named after the Hazen family, who were early settlers in the area. Hazen’s growth was initially fueled by the arrival of the railroad, which brought new settlers and opened up trade routes for the agricultural products of the region. The town has long been a center for grain farming and ranching. In recent decades, Hazen has seen growth thanks to its proximity to the oil-producing regions of North Dakota, with the Bakken oil boom bringing new industries and economic opportunities. Hazen’s location near the beautiful Lake Sakakawea makes it a popular destination for tourists and locals who enjoy boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation.
Schools and Landmarks
- Major Schools: Hazen High School, Hazen Public School District
- Landmarks: Lake Sakakawea, Hazen City Park, Hazen Rodeo Grounds
Hazen is served by the Hazen Public School District, with Hazen High School being the primary high school for the area. The school offers a range of academic programs as well as extracurricular activities, including sports and arts. Hazen is home to several notable landmarks, including Lake Sakakawea, a massive reservoir that offers a wide range of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping. Hazen City Park is a popular destination for outdoor activities, with picnic areas, walking paths, and sports fields. Another key landmark is the Hazen Rodeo Grounds, where the annual Hazen Rodeo takes place, celebrating the area’s agricultural heritage. These landmarks reflect Hazen’s strong connection to both its agricultural roots and its growing tourism industry.
3. Golden Valley
Location and History
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: 150 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 58541
- Latitude: 47.0539° N
- Longitude: 101.3516° W
Golden Valley is a small town located in the southern part of Mercer County, near the edge of the Badlands. It was established in the early 20th century, with settlers initially drawn to the area for its fertile land and proximity to the railroad. The town’s economy has traditionally been centered around agriculture, with farming and ranching being the primary sources of income. Over time, Golden Valley’s population has remained small, but it continues to be an important hub for the surrounding rural communities. The area is known for its natural beauty, including the nearby Little Missouri River and the rugged landscapes of the Badlands, which have become an attraction for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Schools and Landmarks
- Major Schools: Students attend schools in nearby towns
- Landmarks: Golden Valley Community Center, Golden Valley Park, Little Missouri River
Because of its small size, Golden Valley does not have its own school; local students attend schools in nearby towns, such as Beulah or Hazen. The town’s key landmarks include the Golden Valley Community Center, which serves as a venue for social gatherings, local events, and meetings. The Golden Valley Park provides a peaceful setting for outdoor recreation and community activities. The Little Missouri River runs near the town, offering picturesque views and opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and wildlife observation. Golden Valley’s natural surroundings and small-town charm make it a quiet retreat from the busier urban centers of Mercer County.
4. Stanton
Location and History
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: 300 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 58571
- Latitude: 47.2902° N
- Longitude: 101.4246° W
Stanton is located in the eastern part of Mercer County, near the Missouri River. The town was established in 1883 and served as a vital railroad hub for early settlers moving westward. Its early economy was largely based on agriculture, particularly wheat farming, as well as trade through its position along the river. Over the years, Stanton has remained a small agricultural town, although it has seen a gradual shift toward energy-related industries due to its proximity to the Bakken oil fields. Stanton offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle while being close enough to larger communities for residents to take advantage of urban amenities.
Schools and Landmarks
- Major Schools: Stanton Public School
- Landmarks: Stanton City Park, Missouri River, Local Historical Buildings
Stanton is served by the Stanton Public School, which provides education for students from kindergarten through high school. The school is an integral part of the town, with a strong focus on community involvement. Stanton’s landmarks include the Stanton City Park, which offers a variety of recreational facilities, including playgrounds, walking paths, and sports courts. The Missouri River runs alongside the town, offering beautiful views and opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating. Stanton is also home to several historical buildings that reflect its early railroad and agricultural history, making it an interesting place for history enthusiasts.
5. Rockford
Location and History
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: 50 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 58578
- Latitude: 47.3084° N
- Longitude: 101.6932° W
Rockford is a small town located in the western part of Mercer County. Founded in the late 19th century, it originally thrived as a farming and ranching community, with settlers attracted to the fertile land. The town was named after the rock formations found along the nearby river, which provided a natural barrier for early travelers. Over time, the population of Rockford has remained low, and the town continues to be primarily agricultural. Today, Rockford is a quiet rural community that offers a peaceful lifestyle with close ties to its agricultural heritage.
Schools and Landmarks
- Major Schools: Students attend schools in nearby towns
- Landmarks: Rockford Community Center, Local Farms, Riverbank Views
Due to its small size, Rockford does not have its own school, and local children attend schools in nearby towns, such as Beulah or Hazen. The town’s most notable landmark is the Rockford Community Center, which serves as the gathering place for social events and local meetings. The town is surrounded by vast local farms, which are an integral part of the area’s economy. The scenic riverbank views along the nearby river offer picturesque landscapes and provide opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Despite its small size, Rockford maintains a strong sense of community and continues to be a peaceful retreat in the heart of Mercer County.