Cities and Towns in Ripley County, Missouri
Founded in 1831, Ripley County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Ripley County was formed from Wayne County. The city of Doniphan is the county seat. With FIPS code of 181, Ripley County has a population of 10,617 and area of 630 square miles (1,632 km²).
List of all cities in Ripley County, MO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bennett, MO | 63931 | 573 |
| Briar, MO | 63931 | 573 |
| Doniphan, MO | 63935 | 573 |
| Fairdealing, MO | 63939 | 573 |
| Gatewood, MO | 63942 | 573 |
| Naylor, MO | 63953 | 573 |
| Oxly, MO | 63955 | 573 |
| Poynor, MO | 63935 | 573 |
Major Cities and Towns in Ripley County, Missouri
Poplar Bluff
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 11.51 sq mi
- Population: 17,023 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 63901, 63902
- Latitude: 36.7485° N
- Longitude: 90.4248° W
Location and History
Poplar Bluff, the largest city in Ripley County, is situated in the southeastern part of Missouri, near the borders of Arkansas and Tennessee. The city was founded in 1851 and named for the poplar trees that line the Black River, which flows nearby. Initially a trading post and river town, Poplar Bluff was well-positioned as a transportation hub due to its location on the Southern Railway. The town grew quickly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily due to its role in timber production, agriculture, and as a riverport. The city also served as a center for trade and commerce in the region, helping to establish Poplar Bluff as the economic nucleus of southeast Missouri. In the 20th century, Poplar Bluff saw further industrial growth, with the development of industries like manufacturing and retail. The city has evolved into a regional hub for healthcare, education, and services, with a strong infrastructure that supports its growing population. Poplar Bluff is often called the “Gateway to the Ozarks” due to its location near the Ozark Mountains, which offer outdoor recreation and scenic beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Poplar Bluff is served by the Poplar Bluff R-I School District, which includes several elementary schools, middle schools, and Poplar Bluff High School, known for its academic excellence and strong extracurricular programs. The city also has several private schools and vocational training centers. Poplar Bluff is home to Three Rivers College, a community college offering a wide range of academic and career programs. Landmarks in the city include the historic Poplar Bluff Depot, which serves as a reminder of the city’s early days as a railroad town, and the Black River Coliseum, an event venue that hosts concerts, conventions, and community events. The Poplar Bluff City Park and the nearby Mingo National Wildlife Refuge offer recreational opportunities such as hiking, bird watching, and fishing. The Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center is also a prominent landmark, providing healthcare services to the area. In addition, the town celebrates its history with the annual Poplar Bluff Fall Festival, which brings the community together with a parade, music, and local food.
Doniphan
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.72 sq mi
- Population: 1,963 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 63935
- Latitude: 36.6245° N
- Longitude: 90.7716° W
Location and History
Doniphan, the second-largest city in Ripley County, is located along the Current River, one of Missouri’s most scenic rivers, offering a picturesque setting and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city was founded in the 1830s and named after a prominent American general, Alexander Doniphan, who served in the Mexican-American War. Doniphan grew as a small community focused on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of crops such as cotton and corn, as well as timber production. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further spurred the town’s growth, bringing new economic opportunities and settlers to the area. Doniphan’s location near the Ozarks also made it an ideal base for mining operations, which flourished in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, Doniphan is a quiet, rural community with a strong connection to its natural surroundings. It serves as the county seat of Ripley County and remains a small town with a slower pace of life, attracting residents who enjoy outdoor recreation and the charm of a tight-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The Doniphan R-I School District serves the local community, offering educational opportunities from elementary through high school. The district is known for its strong academic performance and its focus on developing well-rounded students. For higher education, the nearest community college is Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff. Doniphan is surrounded by natural landmarks, including the Current River State Park and the nearby Mark Twain National Forest, which are popular destinations for canoeing, fishing, and hiking. The Ripley County Courthouse, located in the heart of the city, is a historic landmark that dates back to the early 20th century and serves as a reminder of Doniphan’s civic importance. Additionally, the Doniphan City Park provides outdoor activities for families, including picnic areas, a walking trail, and a playground. One of the city’s cultural landmarks is the Doniphan Historic District, which preserves a collection of early 20th-century buildings, reflecting the city’s growth during that time. The Current River, with its clear waters and scenic beauty, remains a key feature of Doniphan, drawing visitors year-round for recreational activities.
Naylor
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.89 sq mi
- Population: 592 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 63953
- Latitude: 36.5577° N
- Longitude: 90.4510° W
Location and History
Naylor is a small city located in the southeastern part of Ripley County, just north of the Arkansas-Missouri border. The city’s origins trace back to the late 19th century when it began as a rural farming settlement. It was named after an early settler, William Naylor, who played a key role in the town’s development. Like many small towns in southeastern Missouri, Naylor was founded around agricultural practices, particularly the cultivation of crops and livestock. The city’s population grew modestly in the early 20th century, although it has remained a relatively small community compared to neighboring towns like Poplar Bluff. Today, Naylor maintains a rural atmosphere, with a focus on agriculture and a strong sense of community. The town is also known for its proximity to the Ozarks and various natural resources, which provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and tourism, making it a quaint, quiet location to live and visit.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Naylor is served by the Naylor R-II School District, which provides elementary through high school education to local children. While the school district is small, it is committed to providing quality education in a personalized setting. Naylor’s location near the Ozarks and the Current River makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. The area is home to a number of natural landmarks, including nearby Mark Twain National Forest, which provides hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic views. The city’s local parks, including a small community park, offer recreational opportunities for residents. While Naylor does not have major commercial landmarks, it remains a peaceful, rural community with strong ties to the surrounding countryside. Residents of Naylor enjoy a quieter pace of life, often centered around farming, outdoor activities, and small-town traditions. The city is also a short drive away from the larger town of Poplar Bluff, where additional amenities and services can be found.
