Cities and Towns in Rock County, Nebraska
Founded in 1885, Rock County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Rock County was formed from Brown County. The city of Bassett is the county seat. With FIPS code of 149, Rock County has a population of 1,264 and area of 1,008 square miles (2,611 km²).
List of all cities in Rock County, NE alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bassett, NE | 68714 | 402 |
| Rose, NE | 68714 | 402 |
Major Cities and Towns in Rock County, Nebraska
Bassett
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.02 square miles
- Population: 400+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 68714
- Latitude: 42.4697° N
- Longitude: 99.6073° W
Location and History:
Bassett is the county seat of Rock County, located in the northern part of Nebraska, close to the South Dakota border. The town was established in 1882 and named after the nearby Bassett family, prominent local settlers. It developed as a rural trade and supply center for surrounding agricultural communities. Bassett grew steadily in the early 20th century as the county’s economic focus was on ranching and farming, with the region’s fertile soil making it ideal for raising cattle and crops like corn and wheat. The town was served by the Chicago and North Western Railway, which helped to establish Bassett as an important transportation and trade hub. Though small in population, Bassett has maintained a strong agricultural identity, with a community dedicated to preserving its rural heritage. The town’s development has been modest, but it remains a key location for the surrounding farming and ranching operations. Today, Bassett continues to be a quiet, friendly town, and its location in the scenic Nebraska Sandhills makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Bassett is served by Rock County Public Schools, which includes Rock County High School. The school district focuses on providing a well-rounded education and offers a variety of extracurricular activities for students, including athletics, music, and community service programs. Bassett’s historic downtown area is home to several early 20th-century buildings, including the Rock County Courthouse, which remains a central point of civic life. One of Bassett’s primary landmarks is the Rock County Historical Society Museum, which features exhibits on the area’s pioneer history, the development of ranching in the region, and the role of the railroad in Bassett’s growth. Outdoor recreation in the area is abundant, with the nearby Niobrara River providing opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and hiking. Bassett’s location in the Nebraska Sandhills also offers access to scenic views and wildlife viewing, making it an ideal location for those interested in nature. Local events, such as the annual Bassett Rodeo, are popular attractions that celebrate the town’s agricultural and ranching roots.
Newport
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.34 square miles
- Population: 200+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 68759
- Latitude: 42.6090° N
- Longitude: 99.5943° W
Location and History:
Newport is a small village located in the western part of Rock County, Nebraska, established in the 1880s along the Chicago and North Western Railway. The town was named after Newport, Rhode Island, by early settlers who were inspired by the East Coast city’s history and maritime heritage, despite the village being located in the heart of Nebraska’s Sandhills. Newport’s early growth was linked to the expansion of the railroad and the surrounding agricultural economy, particularly cattle ranching. The town served as a regional hub for local farmers and ranchers, offering services like grain milling and livestock auctions. Over the years, Newport’s population has remained small, and much of the community’s identity is tied to its rural lifestyle and agricultural activities. The village’s economy is still closely tied to farming, but like many small rural towns, Newport has seen a decline in population over the years as younger generations have moved to larger cities for educational and employment opportunities. Despite this, Newport remains an important part of the county’s agricultural base and is known for its quiet, peaceful atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Newport is served by the Rock County Public Schools district, although the nearest high school for students in the village is located in Bassett. The school district offers a small but close-knit educational experience, with students participating in community-focused programs and extracurricular activities. Key landmarks in Newport include its historic downtown area, which retains some original 19th-century buildings. The community is also known for the Newport Community Hall, a popular venue for local events, meetings, and social gatherings. The area surrounding Newport offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, birdwatching, and hunting in the nearby Sandhills region, which is home to diverse wildlife and scenic views. The nearby Niobrara River provides additional opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, including fishing and canoeing. Newport, like many small Nebraska towns, hosts local events and gatherings that bring the community together, including the annual Fourth of July celebration, which features a parade and fireworks.
Long Pine
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.36 square miles
- Population: 200+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 69217
- Latitude: 42.4393° N
- Longitude: 99.3475° W
Location and History:
Long Pine is located in the central part of Rock County, along the Long Pine Creek, from which the town gets its name. It was founded in the late 19th century as a stop on the railroad, which spurred its development into a small agricultural trade center. The town is situated in the heart of Nebraska’s Sandhills, an area known for its vast grasslands and rolling hills. Like many small towns in the region, Long Pine’s early economy was driven by farming and cattle ranching. The community also became known for its access to Long Pine Creek, a resource that provided water and irrigation for local farms. Over time, Long Pine attracted both ranchers and homesteaders looking to settle in the fertile land of the Sandhills. Despite its small size, Long Pine has remained an important local center, particularly for agricultural activity. The town’s development has been modest, and much of its economy continues to be based on agriculture and ranching.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Long Pine is served by the Long Pine School District, which provides education for students in the area. The district is small but offers a quality education in a close-knit community environment, with a focus on academic achievement and character development. Long Pine is home to the Long Pine Community Center, which serves as a hub for local events, including meetings, social gatherings, and cultural activities. The nearby Long Pine State Recreation Area, a popular park along Long Pine Creek, offers recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, making it a major landmark in the area. The town’s scenic setting in the Sandhills makes it a picturesque place for visitors to explore, with its rolling hills, unique sand dunes, and diverse wildlife. The Long Pine area is also popular with hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts, and it provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to experience rural Nebraska. Long Pine’s location, rich natural resources, and strong sense of community make it a charming and welcoming place to live.
