Cities and Towns in Oneida County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1885, Oneida County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Oneida County was formed from Lincoln County. The city of Rhinelander is the county seat. With FIPS code of 85, Oneida County has a population of 38,259 and area of 1,112.97 square miles (2,883 km²).
List of all cities in Oneida County, WI alphabetically
- Harshaw, WI
- Hazelhurst, WI
- Lake Tomahawk, WI
- Mc Naughton, WI
- Minocqua, WI
- Pelican Lake, WI
- Rhinelander, WI
- Three Lakes, WI
- Tripoli, WI
- Woodruff, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Oneida County, Wisconsin
Rhinelander
- Area: 8.61 square miles
- Population: 7,442 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54501
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.6367° N, 89.4123° W
Location and History
Rhinelander is the county seat and largest city in Oneida County, located in the northern part of Wisconsin. The city was founded in 1880 and was named after Frederic W. Rhinelander, the president of the Milwaukee, Lake Shore and Western Railroad, which played a crucial role in the city’s development. Rhinelander quickly became a center for the logging industry, with its location along the Wisconsin River providing an ideal setting for transporting timber. As the logging industry declined, Rhinelander diversified its economy, focusing on tourism, manufacturing, and paper production. The city is also famous for being the home of the Hodag, a mythical creature that has become a symbol of Rhinelander’s unique local culture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rhinelander is served by the School District of Rhinelander, with Rhinelander High School being the primary educational institution. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Rhinelander Logging Museum, which showcases the history of the logging industry in the region. The Oneida County Courthouse, with its distinctive clock tower, is another significant landmark that reflects the city’s historical importance. Rhinelander is also known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, with numerous lakes, trails, and parks such as Hodag Park, which offers boating, fishing, and picnicking facilities. The annual Hodag Country Festival is a major event that draws thousands of visitors to Rhinelander each year.
Minocqua
- Area: 168.10 square miles
- Population: 4,556 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54548
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.8692° N, 89.7026° W
Location and History
Minocqua is a popular resort town located in the northern part of Oneida County, situated on a peninsula surrounded by numerous lakes, including Lake Minocqua. The town was established in the late 19th century as a logging community, but it soon became known as a premier destination for tourism and outdoor recreation. The name “Minocqua” is believed to be derived from an Ojibwe word meaning “noon-day rest,” reflecting the area’s Native American heritage. Over the years, Minocqua has grown into a bustling town, particularly during the summer months, when visitors flock to enjoy its natural beauty, water activities, and vibrant downtown.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Minocqua is served by the Lakeland Union High School District, with Lakeland Union High School located in nearby Arbor Vitae. The town is known for its scenic downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. The Minocqua Winter Park is a key landmark, offering extensive trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, as well as hiking and biking in the summer. Another major attraction is the Wildwood Wildlife Park & Nature Center, which is one of the largest zoos in Wisconsin. Minocqua also hosts the annual Beef-A-Rama festival, a popular event celebrating the town’s community spirit with a parade, food, and family-friendly activities.
Three Lakes
- Area: 99.8 square miles
- Population: 2,110 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54562
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.7983° N, 89.1706° W
Location and History
Three Lakes is a small town located in the northeastern part of Oneida County, nestled among a chain of 28 interconnected lakes, which is one of the largest inland chain of lakes in the world. The town was established in the late 19th century, primarily as a logging community, but its natural beauty quickly made it a popular destination for tourism. The name “Three Lakes” comes from the three main lakes that were originally settled around—Maple Lake, Townline Lake, and Range Line Lake. Today, Three Lakes is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, particularly boating, fishing, and snowmobiling.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Three Lakes is served by the Three Lakes School District, with Three Lakes High School providing education for local students. The town’s key landmarks include the Three Lakes Historical Society Museum, which preserves the history of the area’s early settlers and the logging industry. The Cy Williams Park, located along the shores of Maple Lake, is a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, and community events. Three Lakes also has a strong cultural scene, with the Three Lakes Center for the Arts hosting performances, art exhibits, and film screenings. The town’s annual events, such as the Nicolet Wheel-A-Way bike tour and the Three Lakes Pumpkin Fest, celebrate the community’s close-knit spirit and connection to the natural environment.
Lake Tomahawk
- Area: 35.58 square miles
- Population: 1,048 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54539
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.8117° N, 89.5826° W
Location and History
Lake Tomahawk is a small town located in the northwestern part of Oneida County, surrounded by numerous lakes and forests. The town was originally established as a logging community in the late 19th century, but its picturesque setting soon attracted tourists and summer residents. The town is named after Lake Tomahawk, one of the many lakes in the area, and reflects the region’s Native American heritage. Lake Tomahawk has remained a quiet, rural community with a strong focus on outdoor recreation, particularly fishing, boating, and camping.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lake Tomahawk is part of the Lakeland Union High School District, with students attending Lakeland Union High School in nearby Arbor Vitae. The town is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, with Lake Tomahawk itself being a major landmark. The town also features several parks, including the Lake Tomahawk Baseball Park, which is home to the Snowhawks, a local amateur baseball team. The Lake Tomahawk Lions Club hosts various community events throughout the year, including the annual Snowshoe Baseball games, a unique tradition that draws both locals and visitors. The town’s location in the heart of the Northwoods makes it a popular destination for those looking to experience the tranquility and beauty of Wisconsin’s lake country.
Woodruff
- Area: 1.48 square miles
- Population: 1,976 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54568
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.8928° N, 89.6895° W
Location and History
Woodruff is a small town located in the northern part of Oneida County, near the popular tourist destinations of Minocqua and Lake Tomahawk. The town was established in the late 19th century and was named after George Woodruff, an early settler and landowner. Woodruff developed as a logging community but soon became known for its proximity to the numerous lakes and forests that make the area a popular destination for outdoor recreation. The town has a rich history connected to the development of the Northwoods region and continues to serve as a gateway to the natural beauty of northern Wisconsin.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Woodruff is served by the Lakeland Union High School District, with students attending Lakeland Union High School in nearby Arbor Vitae. The town is home to several key landmarks, including the Dr. Kate Museum, which honors Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb, known as the “Angel on Snowshoes” for her work as a physician in the Northwoods. The museum also tells the story of the world’s largest penny, a fundraising effort led by Dr. Kate to build a hospital in the area. Woodruff’s location near major lakes and the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest makes it a popular spot for boating, fishing, hiking, and snowmobiling. The town also hosts the annual Beef-A-Rama festival in nearby Minocqua, which is a major event in the region.
