Cities and Towns in Mille Lacs County, Minnesota
Founded in 1857, Mille Lacs County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Mille Lacs County was formed from Ramsey County. The city of Milaca is the county seat. With FIPS code of 95, Mille Lacs County has a population of 26,867 and area of 574.47 square miles (1,488 km²).
List of all cities in Mille Lacs County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bock, MN | 56313 | 320 |
| Foreston, MN | 56330 | 320 |
| Isle, MN | 56342 | 320 |
| Milaca, MN | 56353 | 320 |
| Onamia, MN | 56359 | 320 |
| Pease, MN | 56363 | 320 |
| Princeton, MN | 55371 | 763 |
| Wahkon, MN | 56386 | 320 |
Major Cities and Towns in Mille Lacs County, Minnesota
1. Princeton, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 5.55 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,500 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 55371
- Latitude: 45.5856° N
- Longitude: 93.5872° W
City Location and History
Princeton is the largest city in Mille Lacs County, located in the central part of Minnesota, along the banks of the Rum River. The city was first settled in 1855 and was named after Princeton, New Jersey, due to the influence of early settlers from the East Coast. Originally a farming and logging community, Princeton’s economy grew with the arrival of the railroad in the 1880s, which spurred the growth of agriculture and trade in the area. The city served as an important center for the surrounding agricultural region, particularly for the wheat and dairy farming industries. In the 20th century, Princeton’s economy diversified, with the establishment of small manufacturing businesses and retail outlets. Today, Princeton is a vibrant community that offers a mix of suburban and rural living. It is an attractive location for families due to its schools, parks, and proximity to outdoor recreational activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Princeton is served by the Princeton School District, with Princeton High School offering a wide range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and athletics. The city is also home to Pine Technical and Community College, providing higher education opportunities. One of Princeton’s most prominent landmarks is Princeton’s Rum River Park, which offers walking trails, picnic areas, and access to the river for boating and fishing. Princeton’s Historical Museum showcases the area’s agricultural roots, Native American history, and railroad heritage. The Mille Lacs County Fairgrounds hosts the Mille Lacs County Fair each summer, an event that includes rides, exhibits, and live entertainment. The Princeton Golf Course offers a scenic and challenging layout for golf enthusiasts, and Lake Francis is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. The city also hosts various annual events, such as Princeton’s Winterfest, which celebrates the region’s winter activities and community spirit.
2. Onamia, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 1.73 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56359
- Latitude: 45.9430° N
- Longitude: 93.6179° W
City Location and History
Onamia is a small city located in the central part of Mille Lacs County, situated on the edge of Lake Onamia and near Mille Lacs Lake, one of Minnesota’s largest and most popular fishing lakes. The city was settled in the 1850s, primarily by settlers involved in agriculture and the fur trade. Onamia was named after the Ojibwe (Chippewa) word “Onaamie,” which means “good fishing,” a nod to the area’s abundant fish and wildlife. Onamia grew during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, benefiting from its proximity to Mille Lacs Lake and its role as a hub for logging and local trade. The city’s economy remained focused on agriculture, particularly dairy and grain farming, but has also embraced tourism, thanks to its lakes and recreational opportunities. Onamia retains much of its small-town charm and is often described as a gateway to outdoor adventures, particularly in the nearby Mille Lacs Indian Reservation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Onamia is served by the Onamia School District, with Onamia High School offering a well-rounded education with programs in arts, athletics, and academics. The city also benefits from Northland Community Schools, which serves the surrounding rural areas. A major landmark in Onamia is Mille Lacs Lake, which attracts visitors for its world-class fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Father Hennepin State Park, located on the southern shore of Mille Lacs Lake, offers camping, hiking, and water activities. The Onamia Historical Museum highlights the city’s Native American and early settler history, as well as its ties to the fur trade. Onamia also hosts The Mille Lacs County Historical Society, which provides educational exhibits and information on the area’s history. The Annual Onamia Lions Community Days celebration includes a parade, carnival, and fireworks, drawing both residents and tourists. The city’s rural location and natural beauty make it a peaceful destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a slower pace of life.
3. Isle, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 2.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56342
- Latitude: 45.4935° N
- Longitude: 93.4440° W
City Location and History
Isle is a small city located on the western shore of Mille Lacs Lake, one of Minnesota’s most famous lakes for fishing and recreation. Isle was incorporated in 1913 and has long been a popular location for visitors seeking outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and camping. The city was named for its proximity to Spirit Island, a small island on Mille Lacs Lake that is a well-known landmark. Originally, Isle was established as a center for logging and fishing, with many residents involved in the commercial fishing industry, which thrived due to the abundant fish populations in the lake. Over time, Isle transitioned into a tourist destination, attracting anglers, nature lovers, and vacationers seeking to experience the beauty of Mille Lacs Lake. Today, Isle maintains its reputation as a premier destination for outdoor recreation, and its economy is largely based on tourism, including resorts, shops, and restaurants catering to visitors.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Isle is served by the Isle Public School District, with Isle High School offering a comprehensive education and a variety of extracurricular programs. The city is also home to a number of local businesses and attractions related to tourism, including several Mille Lacs Lake resorts that offer fishing and boating experiences. The Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post is a key cultural landmark, showcasing the history and traditions of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. Isle’s Spirit Island is also a popular site for boaters, kayakers, and photographers, offering a peaceful natural retreat. The Father Hennepin State Park, located just outside the city, offers hiking trails, campgrounds, and access to the lake for water sports. Isle is known for its Mille Lacs Lake Ice Fishing Extravaganza and its Isle Days Festival, a local celebration featuring a parade, music, and fishing competitions. The city’s location on the lake and its natural beauty make it an ideal destination for fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those looking to enjoy a relaxing lakeside retreat.
4. Garrison, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 1.43 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56450
- Latitude: 45.5663° N
- Longitude: 93.7861° W
City Location and History
Garrison is a small community located on the western shore of Mille Lacs Lake, just south of the city of Isle. Established in the early 1900s, Garrison was originally a fishing village that served as a central hub for the local commercial fishing industry. The name “Garrison” is thought to have been derived from Garrison, New York, reflecting the influence of early settlers from the East Coast. Over the years, Garrison transitioned from a working fishing town to a popular tourist destination, particularly as the region’s outdoor recreation scene gained prominence. Today, the town is known for its beautiful lakeside views and recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. Its proximity to Father Hennepin State Park and other attractions along Mille Lacs Lake makes it a popular base for visitors looking to explore the region’s natural beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Garrison is served by the Isle School District, with students attending Isle High School or the nearby schools in the surrounding area. One of the town’s main landmarks is Father Hennepin State Park, which provides access to Mille Lacs Lake, as well as trails for hiking, wildlife watching, and camping. Garrison is also home to the Garrison Sportsman’s Club, a local organization dedicated to promoting outdoor recreation, including fishing tournaments and events. Another key landmark is the Garrison Grill, a well-known local eatery with views of the lake, serving as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Garrison also celebrates its lakeside heritage with the Annual Garrison Community Days, which includes a parade, fireworks, and fishing contests. The town’s peaceful environment and access to outdoor activities make it a popular destination for people looking to relax by the lake or explore Minnesota’s natural beauty.
