Cities and Towns in Rock County, Minnesota
Founded in 1857, Rock County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Rock County was formed from Brown County. The city of Luverne is the county seat. With FIPS code of 133, Rock County has a population of 9,680 and area of 482.61 square miles (1,250 km²).
List of all cities in Rock County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Beaver Creek, MN | 56116 | 507 |
| Hardwick, MN | 56134 | 507 |
| Hills, MN | 56138 | 507 |
| Jasper, MN | 56144 | 507 |
| Kenneth, MN | 56147 | 507 |
| Luverne, MN | 56156 | 507 |
| Magnolia, MN | 56158 | 507 |
| Steen, MN | 56173 | 507 |
| Trosky, MN | 56144 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Rock County, Minnesota
Rock County is located in the southwestern corner of Minnesota, bordered by the state of Iowa to the south and South Dakota to the west. Known for its rural landscape and agricultural economy, the county is home to a small population spread across a handful of cities and towns. Rock County’s history is rooted in farming, and the area has seen growth from both European settlement and its connections to the railroads. Today, the county offers scenic farmland, a quiet lifestyle, and a variety of community events that celebrate its agricultural traditions.
1. Luverne
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 4.1 square miles
- Population: 4,700 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56156
- Latitude: 43.6504° N
- Longitude: 96.2052° W
Location and History:
Luverne is the county seat of Rock County, located near the southeastern corner of the state, close to the Iowa border. The city was founded in 1871 and named after the French word for “green,” symbolizing the lush prairies and fertile land of the area. Early settlers, primarily from German and Scandinavian backgrounds, established farming communities in the region, making agriculture the cornerstone of the city’s economy.
Luverne prospered with the arrival of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad in the late 1800s, which helped transport agricultural products to larger markets. Over the years, the city has grown to become a center for commerce, healthcare, and tourism in Rock County. Today, it is a charming small town with a variety of parks, shops, and local businesses that draw both residents and tourists alike. The city continues to celebrate its history with a strong sense of community and an active arts and cultural scene.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Luverne is served by the Luverne Public School District, which includes Luverne High School, Luverne Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its commitment to providing quality education with an emphasis on sports and extracurricular activities.
Notable landmarks in Luverne include the Blue Mounds State Park, which is famous for its scenic views, hiking trails, and bison herd. The Rock County Historical Society offers exhibits about the area’s history, including the early settlement and agricultural development. The Luverne Aquatic Center is another key attraction for families during the summer months. Additionally, the Grand Prairie Events Center hosts a variety of community events and gatherings, showcasing local arts and crafts. The Luverne Theatre is a historic venue that continues to offer movies, concerts, and performances to the community.
2. Magnolia
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: 120 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56158
- Latitude: 43.8106° N
- Longitude: 96.1420° W
Location and History:
Magnolia is a small town located about 10 miles southwest of Luverne, in the western part of Rock County. It was established in the late 1800s and developed as an agricultural community. The town was originally named after the Magnolia trees that were abundant in the area, and it grew as a service hub for nearby farmers. Over the years, Magnolia has maintained its rural, agricultural character, with the majority of its population engaged in farming and related industries.
The town’s history is tied to early immigrant communities, including German and Norwegian settlers who established farms in the region. While the population of Magnolia has remained small, the town has been an important part of the agricultural backbone of Rock County. Today, it remains a peaceful, tight-knit community with a focus on family and rural living.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Magnolia is part of the Luverne Public School District, so its students typically attend schools in Luverne. The town does not have its own school but shares educational resources with the larger surrounding area.
Landmarks in Magnolia include the Magnolia Park, a small community park with recreational facilities for local residents. The surrounding area is rich in agricultural history, and several farms around Magnolia offer tours or host events during harvest season. The Rock River, which flows near the town, offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Magnolia is a quiet town, but it plays a vital role in the agricultural community of Rock County, providing essential services to neighboring farms.
3. Beaver Creek
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: 300 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56116
- Latitude: 43.7041° N
- Longitude: 96.1453° W
Location and History:
Beaver Creek is a small town located in the northern part of Rock County, about 15 miles northeast of Luverne. The town was first settled in the 1870s and grew up around a creek of the same name. Its early development was tied to agriculture, with settlers primarily engaged in farming the fertile land around the creek. The town also benefited from its position along early trade routes that connected the area to larger regional markets.
The town’s economy has been rooted in farming and livestock, and it continues to serve as a small rural hub for local agricultural activity. While the population of Beaver Creek has remained small, the town maintains its historic charm and a strong sense of community. Its agricultural past is still evident in the well-maintained farms and barns in the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Beaver Creek is also served by the Luverne Public School District, with students attending schools in the nearby city of Luverne.
Key landmarks in Beaver Creek include the Beaver Creek Park, a local green space for picnicking and outdoor activities. The Rock River flows near the town, offering scenic views and outdoor recreation such as fishing and wildlife watching. While Beaver Creek is a small town, it plays an essential role in the county’s agricultural infrastructure. The town also celebrates its history during local events such as the annual Beaver Creek Fall Festival, which brings together residents and visitors for food, music, and community activities.
4. Kennard
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.1 square miles
- Population: 30 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56156
- Latitude: 43.7891° N
- Longitude: 96.0991° W
Location and History:
Kennard is a very small town located to the north of Luverne, near the intersection of County Road 11 and State Highway 23. The settlement was likely established in the late 19th century as a farming community. Kennard has maintained a rural, peaceful atmosphere with few changes in its small size over the years.
The town does not have significant commercial or industrial activity, but its agricultural roots remain strong. Kennard is primarily residential, with a handful of local farms scattered throughout the surrounding countryside. The town’s history is tied to the larger community of Rock County, but it has remained isolated from the population centers in Luverne and other towns.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Kennard is part of the Luverne Public School District, so students attend schools in Luverne.
Because of its size, Kennard does not have many public landmarks. However, the surrounding countryside offers beautiful agricultural views, and nearby parks like Blue Mounds State Park provide additional recreational opportunities. The town is also close to the Rock River, which is used by locals for fishing and outdoor recreation.