Cities and Towns in Oconto County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1851, Oconto County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Oconto County was formed from Brown County. The city of Oconto is the county seat. With FIPS code of 83, Oconto County has a population of 39,356 and area of 997.99 square miles (2,585 km²).
List of all cities in Oconto County, WI alphabetically
- Abrams, WI
- Gillett, WI
- Lakewood, WI
- Lena, WI
- Little Suamico, WI
- Mountain, WI
- Oconto, WI
- Oconto Falls, WI
- Sobieski, WI
- Suring, WI
- Townsend, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Oconto County, Wisconsin
Oconto
- Area: 7.46 square miles
- Population: 4,513 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54153
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.8872° N, 87.8640° W
Location and History
Oconto, the county seat of Oconto County, is located on the western shore of Green Bay, where the Oconto River meets the bay. The city was first settled in the early 19th century and was officially incorporated in 1869. Oconto’s history is closely tied to the logging and lumber industries, with its location along the river and bay providing a strategic advantage for transporting timber. The city was also home to one of the first paper mills in the region, contributing to its economic growth. Over time, Oconto evolved into a diverse community with a mix of industry, agriculture, and tourism, thanks to its beautiful waterfront and historic downtown.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oconto is served by the Oconto Unified School District, with Oconto High School being the primary educational institution. The city is known for its rich history and has several landmarks that reflect its heritage. The Beyer Home Museum, a restored Victorian mansion, offers a glimpse into the life of a prominent local family in the late 19th century. Another significant site is Copper Culture State Park, which is home to one of the oldest prehistoric burial sites in North America, dating back over 5,000 years. The Oconto River and the nearby Green Bay shoreline provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation, making the city a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
Oconto Falls
- Area: 2.93 square miles
- Population: 2,946 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54154
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.8714° N, 88.1423° W
Location and History
Oconto Falls is located in the central part of Oconto County, along the Oconto River. The city was established in the mid-19th century as a logging community, with the river’s waterfalls providing power for sawmills and other industries. Oconto Falls grew steadily as an industrial center, with paper production becoming a key part of its economy in the early 20th century. The city was named for the falls on the Oconto River, which remain a central feature of the community. Over the years, Oconto Falls has maintained its small-town charm while supporting a diverse mix of manufacturing, agriculture, and retail businesses.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oconto Falls is served by the Oconto Falls School District, with Oconto Falls High School being the main educational institution. The city’s key landmarks include the Oconto Falls Hydro Dam, which continues to generate hydroelectric power for the region, and the historic Washington Street School, now a community center. East Side Beach on the Oconto River is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The city also hosts the annual Memorial Day Parade and a popular summer concert series in the park, bringing the community together to celebrate its heritage and enjoy local entertainment.
Gillett
- Area: 2.58 square miles
- Population: 1,386 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54124
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.8914° N, 88.3081° W
Location and History
Gillett is a small city located in the eastern part of Oconto County. The city was founded in the late 19th century and was named after Rodney Gillett, an early settler who played a significant role in the area’s development. Gillett’s economy was historically based on agriculture and logging, with the surrounding forests providing ample resources for the lumber industry. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s helped the city grow as a regional center for trade and transportation. Today, Gillett remains a quiet, rural community with a focus on farming and small businesses.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gillett is served by the Gillett School District, with Gillett High School being the primary educational institution. The city is known for its strong community spirit and hosts several events throughout the year, including the Gillett Fourth of July Celebration and the Annual Winter Fest. A key landmark in Gillett is Zippel Park, which offers facilities for sports, picnicking, and community events. The Gillett Historical Society Museum preserves the history of the city and the surrounding area, featuring exhibits on the early settlers, the logging industry, and the development of the railroad. The Nicolet State Trail, which passes through Gillett, provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Suring
- Area: 1.22 square miles
- Population: 514 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54174
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.0006° N, 88.3731° W
Location and History
Suring is a small village located in the northern part of Oconto County, along the banks of the South Branch of the Oconto River. The village was established in the late 19th century and was named after Jules Suring, an early landowner and businessman who helped develop the area. Suring grew as a logging and agricultural community, with the surrounding forests and farmland providing the basis for its economy. The village has maintained its rural character over the years, with a focus on farming and outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Suring is served by the Suring Public School District, with Suring High School being the main educational institution. The village is known for its scenic location and outdoor recreational opportunities, particularly along the Oconto River, which offers fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. A key landmark in Suring is Veteran’s Memorial Park, which honors local veterans and serves as a gathering place for community events. The village also hosts the annual Suring Labor Day Celebration, which includes a parade, carnival rides, and various family-friendly activities. The Nicolet State Trail, which runs through Suring, is another important feature, providing access to hiking, biking, and snowmobiling trails that showcase the natural beauty of the area.
Lena
- Area: 1.34 square miles
- Population: 535 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54139
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.9508° N, 88.0465° W
Location and History
Lena is a small village located in the southeastern part of Oconto County. The village was founded in the late 19th century as a stop on the railroad, which played a key role in its early development. Lena’s economy was initially based on agriculture and logging, with the surrounding forests providing resources for the lumber industry. The village was named after a local resident, Lena Woldt, reflecting the close-knit nature of the community. Today, Lena remains a quiet, rural village with a strong agricultural base and a focus on community life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lena is served by the Lena Public School District, with Lena High School being the primary educational institution. The village is known for its peaceful, rural setting and its active community involvement. Key landmarks in Lena include St. Anne’s Catholic Church, a historic building that has served as a spiritual center for the community for over a century. Another significant site is the Lena Centennial Park, which offers facilities for sports, picnicking, and community events. The village also hosts the annual Lena Dairyfest, celebrating the area’s agricultural heritage with parades, dairy-related activities, and family entertainment. The surrounding countryside, with its rolling fields and forests, provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking.
