Cities and Towns in Minidoka County, Idaho
Founded in 1913, Minidoka County is one of 44 counties in the state of Idaho. Historically, Minidoka County was formed from Lincoln County. The city of Rupert is the county seat. With FIPS code of 67, Minidoka County has a population of 21,955 and area of 760 square miles (1,968 km²).
List of all cities in Minidoka County, ID alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Acequia, ID | 83350 | 208 |
Heyburn, ID | 83336 | 208 |
Jackson, ID | 83350 | 208 |
Minidoka, ID | 83343 | 208 |
Paul, ID | 83347 | 208 |
Rupert, ID | 83343 | 208 |
83350 | 208 |
Major Cities and Towns in Minidoka County, Idaho
Rupert
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.01 square miles
- Population: 5,796 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83350
- Latitude: 42.6199° N
- Longitude: 113.6733° W
City Location and History
Rupert is the county seat of Minidoka County, located in the south-central part of Idaho. The city was established in 1906 as a result of the Minidoka Reclamation Project, which transformed the surrounding desert into fertile farmland through irrigation. Rupert was one of the first towns in the United States to be entirely planned and built by the federal government. The city was named after the local railroad station, which in turn was named after a railroad official. Rupert grew rapidly as an agricultural center, with its economy centered on farming, particularly the cultivation of sugar beets, potatoes, and grains. The city’s historic downtown area, with its well-preserved early 20th-century architecture, reflects its rich history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rupert is served by the Minidoka County School District, with Minico High School, East Minico Middle School, and Rupert Elementary School being the main educational institutions. Key landmarks in Rupert include the Minidoka County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the center of local government. The city’s downtown square is a notable feature, surrounded by historic buildings and hosting various community events throughout the year, including the annual Rupert 4th of July Celebration, which is one of the largest in the region. The nearby Lake Walcott State Park, located just northeast of the city, offers opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Paul
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.01 square miles
- Population: 1,169 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83347
- Latitude: 42.6121° N
- Longitude: 113.7848° W
City Location and History
Paul is a small city located in the southern part of Minidoka County, approximately 5 miles west of Rupert. The city was established in the early 20th century as part of the agricultural expansion driven by the Minidoka Reclamation Project. Like Rupert, Paul’s growth was fueled by the development of irrigation infrastructure, which made farming possible in the arid region. The city was named after Charles H. Paul, an engineer who was instrumental in the construction of the Minidoka Dam. Over the years, Paul has maintained its agricultural roots, with farming and related industries continuing to be the backbone of the local economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Paul is served by the Minidoka County School District, with Paul Elementary School being the primary educational institution within the city. Older students typically attend nearby Minico High School. Landmarks in Paul include the historic Paul United Methodist Church, which reflects the city’s early 20th-century architecture and community spirit. The nearby Snake River and surrounding farmlands offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and bird watching. Paul is also known for its annual Harvest Festival, which celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage with parades, games, and local produce. The event draws residents from across the county and highlights the close-knit community atmosphere of this small town.
Heyburn
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.54 square miles
- Population: 3,307 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83336
- Latitude: 42.5594° N
- Longitude: 113.7630° W
City Location and History
Heyburn is located in southwestern Minidoka County, on the northern banks of the Snake River, directly across from the city of Burley in Cassia County. The city was founded in 1907 and named after U.S. Senator Weldon B. Heyburn, a prominent Idaho politician who supported the reclamation efforts in the region. Heyburn’s growth was closely tied to the agricultural development made possible by the Minidoka Dam and the associated irrigation projects. The city’s location along the Snake River has been a key factor in its development, providing both water resources for agriculture and opportunities for transportation and trade. Today, Heyburn is known for its strong agricultural community and its proximity to major transportation routes, including Interstate 84.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Heyburn is served by the Minidoka County School District, with Heyburn Elementary School being the main school within the city. Older students typically attend Minico High School in nearby Rupert. The Snake River, which runs along the southern edge of the city, is a major natural landmark and provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. Heyburn Riverside Park, located along the river, is a popular spot for picnicking, sports, and community events. The city’s annual Fourth of July Celebration is a highlight, featuring fireworks, parades, and various festivities that bring the community together. Heyburn’s location near the Snake River Canyon also offers stunning views and access to outdoor recreation in the surrounding areas.
Minidoka
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.29 square miles
- Population: 109 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83343
- Latitude: 42.7546° N
- Longitude: 113.4814° W
City Location and History
Minidoka is a small town located in northeastern Minidoka County, about 16 miles northeast of Rupert. The town was established in the early 20th century as part of the broader Minidoka Reclamation Project, which aimed to transform the region into productive farmland through the construction of dams and irrigation systems. The name “Minidoka” is derived from a Dakota Sioux word meaning “a fountain or spring of water.” Minidoka initially grew as a railroad town, serving as a key transportation hub for agricultural products. Although its population has remained small, Minidoka played a significant role in the early development of the region’s agricultural economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Minidoka is served by the Minidoka County School District, but due to its small size, there are no schools within the town itself; students typically attend schools in nearby communities such as Rupert. Landmarks in Minidoka include the historic Minidoka Train Depot, which reflects the town’s origins as a railroad hub. The nearby Minidoka National Historic Site, located a few miles to the east, commemorates the site of the Minidoka War Relocation Center, where thousands of Japanese Americans were interned during World War II. The site serves as a poignant reminder of this chapter in American history and is a place of reflection and education. The surrounding farmland and open spaces continue to define Minidoka’s rural character, offering a glimpse into the agricultural roots of the region.