Cities and Towns in Otsego County, Michigan
Founded in 1840, Otsego County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Otsego County was formed from part of Mackinac County which was named Okkudo County until 1843. The city of Gaylord is the county seat. With FIPS code of 137, Otsego County has a population of 25,289 and area of 526 square miles (1,362 km²).
List of all cities in Otsego County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Elmira, MI | 49730 | 231 |
| Gaylord, MI | 49734 | 989 |
| 49735 | 989 | |
| Johannesburg, MI | 49751 | 989 |
| Treetops, MI | 49735 | 989 |
| Treetops Village, MI | 49735 | 989 |
| Vanderbilt, MI | 49795 | 989 |
| Waters, MI | 49797 | 989 |
Major Cities and Towns in Otsego County, Michigan
Gaylord
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 5.12 square miles
- Population: 4,286 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49735
- Latitude: 45.0275° N
- Longitude: 84.6747° W
City Location and History
Gaylord is located in the heart of Otsego County and serves as the county seat. Situated at the intersection of I-75 and M-32, Gaylord is centrally positioned in Northern Michigan, often referred to as the “Alpine Village” due to its Swiss-inspired architecture and year-round outdoor activities. The city was established in 1872, originally named after Augustine Smith Gaylord, an attorney for the Michigan Central Railroad. Gaylord quickly grew as a logging and railroad town, benefiting from its proximity to vast forests and rail connections. Over the years, Gaylord has transitioned into a major tourism hub, particularly known for its skiing, golfing, and proximity to scenic lakes and parks. The town is also recognized for its alpine-themed downtown, which adds to its unique charm.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gaylord Community Schools serve the city, with Gaylord High School being the primary educational institution. Major landmarks include the Otsego Club & Resort, one of Michigan’s premier ski and golf destinations. Gaylord City Elk Park, home to a managed elk herd, is a popular attraction for visitors and residents alike. The city also hosts the annual Alpenfest, a weeklong festival celebrating Gaylord’s Alpine heritage with parades, traditional food, and music. In addition, the nearby Pigeon River Country State Forest offers abundant opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation, making Gaylord a key destination for nature lovers.
Vanderbilt
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.01 square miles
- Population: 562 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49795
- Latitude: 45.1428° N
- Longitude: 84.6619° W
City Location and History
Vanderbilt is a small village located about 10 miles north of Gaylord along I-75. Founded in the late 19th century, the village was named after the Vanderbilt family, prominent railroad magnates of the time. Vanderbilt was originally a logging town, and its growth was closely tied to the lumber industry and the Michigan Central Railroad, which passed through the village. As the logging industry declined, Vanderbilt evolved into a quiet rural community. Today, Vanderbilt is known for its proximity to the Pigeon River Country State Forest, a large wildlife area that offers outdoor recreational opportunities like hunting, fishing, and camping.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Vanderbilt Area School serves the village, providing education for local students from kindergarten through high school. The village’s main landmarks include the nearby Pigeon River Country State Forest, known for its expansive wilderness and the reintroduction of elk to Michigan in the 1980s. This forest is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts, offering miles of hiking trails and camping sites. The Sturgeon River, which runs near Vanderbilt, is popular for canoeing and kayaking. The village also hosts an annual community festival, celebrating its small-town heritage and close connection to the natural beauty of the region.
Johannesburg
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 500 (including surrounding area)
- Zip Codes: 49751
- Latitude: 44.9731° N
- Longitude: 84.4528° W
City Location and History
Johannesburg is an unincorporated community located about 15 miles east of Gaylord, in Charlton Township. The community was founded in the early 1900s by lumber baron Louis G. Johnson, and its name is derived from his wife’s first name, Johanna. Johannesburg grew as a logging settlement, with sawmills and the timber industry driving its early development. Over time, as the logging industry waned, Johannesburg remained a small, close-knit community, with residents primarily involved in agriculture and outdoor recreation. The town serves as a gateway to the scenic beauty of Northern Michigan, with easy access to lakes, forests, and trails.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Johannesburg-Lewiston Area Schools serve the community, with Johannesburg-Lewiston High School being the primary educational institution. The community is closely connected to Lewiston, a nearby village, with shared school districts and events. Johannesburg is located near Big Bear Lake, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping. The area is also well-known for its snowmobiling and ORV trails, attracting outdoor enthusiasts year-round. The Charlton Township Hall and the Charlton Historical Museum offer a glimpse into the town’s past, preserving artifacts and stories from its early days as a logging hub.
Lewiston
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 1,392 (including surrounding area)
- Zip Codes: 49756
- Latitude: 44.8836° N
- Longitude: 84.3056° W
City Location and History
Lewiston is located in Montmorency County, but its close proximity to Otsego County and its shared services with Johannesburg make it an integral part of the Otsego County region. Founded in the late 19th century, Lewiston was originally a lumber town named after Lewis E. Ernst, a prominent figure in the Michigan lumber industry. The community prospered during the logging boom, but as the forests were cleared, the town transitioned into a recreational and resort destination. Today, Lewiston is known for its picturesque lakes, including East Twin and West Twin Lakes, and its abundance of vacation homes and cottages.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lewiston shares the Johannesburg-Lewiston Area Schools district with Johannesburg, with Johannesburg-Lewiston High School serving students from both communities. Landmarks in Lewiston include the Garland Lodge & Golf Resort, a premier golfing destination with four championship golf courses set amidst scenic forests and lakes. The area around East Twin and West Twin Lakes is popular for boating, fishing, and swimming, drawing both residents and visitors throughout the summer months. Lewiston’s annual Timberfest celebrates the town’s logging heritage with parades, contests, and family-friendly activities. The nearby Au Sable River offers canoeing and fly-fishing opportunities, contributing to Lewiston’s reputation as a hub for outdoor recreation.
Waters
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 500 (including surrounding area)
- Zip Codes: 49797
- Latitude: 44.8619° N
- Longitude: 84.7039° W
City Location and History
Waters is a small unincorporated community located just south of Gaylord along Old U.S. 27 and close to I-75. The community developed in the late 19th century as a stop for the Michigan Central Railroad, serving both the timber and agricultural industries. Its name comes from the numerous lakes and streams in the area, which have long attracted residents and tourists for fishing and other recreational activities. Over time, Waters has remained a quiet, rural community, known for its proximity to Otsego Lake and the many outdoor activities available nearby.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Waters is served by Gaylord Community Schools, with students attending Gaylord High School. The main landmarks in Waters include Otsego Lake State Park, a popular destination for camping, swimming, and fishing, located just a few miles from the community. The park’s sandy beach and recreational facilities draw visitors from across the region during the summer months. The community is also known for its proximity to several golf courses and snowmobile trails, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Waters hosts a small annual festival that celebrates its community spirit and close connection to the natural beauty of Northern Michigan.
