Cities and Towns in Perkins County, South Dakota
Founded in 1909, Perkins County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, Perkins County was formed from Butte and Harding Counties. The city of Bison is the county seat. With FIPS code of 105, Perkins County has a population of 2,819 and area of 2,872 square miles (7,438 km²).
List of all cities in Perkins County, SD alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ada, SD | 57620 | 605 |
| Anderson, SD | 57644 | 605 |
| Athboy, SD | 57644 | 605 |
| Bison, SD | 57620 | 605 |
| Bixby, SD | 57620 | 605 |
| Cash, SD | 57620 | 605 |
| Chance, SD | 57620 | 605 |
| Coal Springs, SD | 57644 | 605 |
| Date, SD | 57649 | 605 |
| Glad Valley, SD | 57644 | 605 |
| Glendo, SD | 57649 | 605 |
| Govert, SD | 57620 | 605 |
| Imogene, SD | 57649 | 605 |
| Lemmon, SD | 57638 | 605 |
| Lodgepole, SD | 57640 | 605 |
| Meadow, SD | 57644 | 605 |
| Prairie City, SD | 57649 | 605 |
| Shadehill, SD | 57638 | 605 |
| Strool, SD | 57649 | 605 |
| Thunder Hawk, SD | 57638 | 605 |
| White Butte, SD | 57638 | 605 |
Major Cities and Towns in Perkins County, South Dakota
Bison, South Dakota
Location and History
Bison is located in the northern part of Perkins County, South Dakota, approximately 40 miles south of the North Dakota border and 40 miles northeast of the city of Sturgis. The town was founded in the early 1900s and was named after the American bison, which once roamed the area in large herds. Bison was established as a farming and ranching community, with agriculture being the primary industry in the area. The town grew steadily during its early years, benefiting from its location along major transportation routes, including the Chicago and North Western Railway. The local economy centered around cattle ranching, crop farming, and the processing of agricultural goods. Like many small towns in the region, Bison saw its population peak in the early 20th century and later experience a decline as agricultural practices evolved. Despite this, Bison has maintained its rural charm and remains an agricultural hub for the surrounding area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bison is served by the Perkins County School District, which includes Bison High School and an elementary school. The district provides a range of academic and extracurricular activities, including sports and 4-H programs. Key landmarks in Bison include the Perkins County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the administrative heart of the county. The Bison City Park offers outdoor spaces for recreation, including picnic areas and playgrounds. Nearby, the Cheyenne River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The surrounding landscape, characterized by rolling hills and prairies, is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching. Bison also hosts the annual Perkins County Fair, celebrating the town’s agricultural roots with events like rodeos, livestock exhibitions, and a carnival. Though small, Bison remains an important part of the local agricultural economy and is a gateway to outdoor exploration in the region.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: 300 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57620
- Latitude: 45.8340° N
- Longitude: 101.6571° W
Lodgepole, South Dakota
Location and History
Lodgepole is a small town located in the southern part of Perkins County, South Dakota, roughly 25 miles southeast of Bison and about 50 miles southwest of Rapid City. The town was established in the early 1900s and was named after the Lodgepole Pine trees that grow in the region. The settlement grew rapidly during the early years due to the fertile land and the development of the railroads, which facilitated transportation and trade. Much like many other rural towns in South Dakota, Lodgepole’s economy was initially driven by farming and ranching, with an emphasis on cattle and grain production. Over time, the town experienced a decline in population as larger, mechanized farming operations led to fewer rural residents. Despite these challenges, Lodgepole remains a quiet, rural community with a close-knit population that continues to rely on agriculture as the mainstay of its economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lodgepole is part of the Perkins County School District, where students attend the nearby schools in Bison. The district offers a range of educational opportunities, including sports teams and agricultural education programs. Major landmarks in Lodgepole include the Lodgepole City Park, which provides a small space for outdoor activities like picnicking, sports, and family gatherings. The park features scenic views of the surrounding plains and hills, perfect for nature lovers. The surrounding area is known for its picturesque landscapes, with opportunities for hunting, fishing, and hiking. Lodgepole is also close to the Black Hills, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and historical sites. Though small, the town remains an important part of Perkins County’s rural charm and agricultural legacy.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: 100 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57640
- Latitude: 44.3286° N
- Longitude: 101.6844° W
Hetland, South Dakota
Location and History
Hetland is located in the southwestern corner of Perkins County, South Dakota, approximately 30 miles west of Bison and about 60 miles northeast of Rapid City. The town was established in the early 1900s, primarily as a result of the Homestead Act, which encouraged settlement in the area. Hetland’s name was taken from the Hetland family, early settlers who contributed to the development of the town. Originally, Hetland served as a center for farming and ranching, with local industries focusing on grain production and livestock. The town was known for its strong Scandinavian heritage, with many of its early settlers coming from Denmark and Norway. Over the years, Hetland saw a steady population decline, as mechanized farming and urbanization reduced the need for small rural towns. Nevertheless, Hetland remains a quiet, rural community with a rich agricultural history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hetland is served by the Perkins County School District, with most local students attending schools in Bison. The district provides a solid educational experience for rural students, offering various extracurricular activities, including athletics and 4-H programs. One notable landmark in Hetland is the Hetland Lutheran Church, which serves as a focal point for the local religious community and offers a glimpse into the town’s Scandinavian heritage. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking and wildlife viewing, and Hetland is also within driving distance of the Badlands National Park, providing additional recreational options. The town’s rural charm and agricultural legacy continue to make it a peaceful place for those who live there, with a strong sense of community and tradition.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.2 square miles
- Population: 50 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57620
- Latitude: 44.2907° N
- Longitude: 101.5637° W
