Cities and Towns in Russell County, Kansas
Founded in 1867, Russell County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Russell County was formed from unorganized area. The city of Russell is the county seat. With FIPS code of 167, Russell County has a population of 6,703 and area of 885 square miles (2,292 km²).
List of all cities in Russell County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bunker Hill, KS | 67626 | 785 |
| Dorrance, KS | 67634 | 785 |
| Gorham, KS | 67640 | 785 |
| Lucas, KS | 67648 | 785 |
| Luray, KS | 67649 | 785 |
| Paradise, KS | 67658 | 785 |
| Russell, KS | 67665 | 785 |
| Waldo, KS | 67673 | 785 |
Major Cities and Towns in Russell County, Kansas
Russell
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 4.89 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,400 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 67665
- Latitude: 38.8856° N
- Longitude: 98.8592° W
Location and History
Russell, the county seat of Russell County, is located in north-central Kansas, approximately 30 miles west of Hays along Interstate 70. Established in 1871, Russell was named after Russell County itself, which was in turn named for Captain Avra P. Russell, a Union Army officer during the Civil War. The town initially grew as a railroad hub and agricultural center, with wheat farming and cattle ranching playing a significant role in the local economy. Over the years, Russell became widely known as the hometown of prominent political figures, including U.S. Senator Bob Dole. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century led to further growth, making oil production a key component of Russell’s economy alongside agriculture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Russell is served by USD 407, which includes Russell High School, Ruppenthal Middle School, and Bickerdyke Elementary School. Notable landmarks include the Deines Cultural Center, which showcases local and regional art, and Fossil Station Museum, which preserves the history of Russell and its surrounding areas. Another key landmark is Bob Dole’s childhood home, a testament to the town’s political heritage. Russell also hosts the annual Prairiesta celebration, a community event that commemorates the city’s history with parades, dances, and exhibitions. The nearby Wilson Lake offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, and camping.
Lucas
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.38 square miles
- Population: Approximately 350 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 67648
- Latitude: 39.0586° N
- Longitude: 98.5379° W
Location and History
Lucas is a small town located in the northern part of Russell County, known for its unique artistic culture and quirky attractions. Founded in 1877, Lucas was originally an agricultural town, with settlers drawn to the fertile land of north-central Kansas. While farming, particularly wheat and corn, played a central role in its early economy, the town gradually gained national attention for its vibrant art scene. Lucas is home to the famous Garden of Eden, a folk art installation created by local sculptor Samuel P. Dinsmoor in the early 20th century, which features concrete sculptures and biblical scenes. Over time, Lucas has embraced its reputation as the “Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas,” attracting artists and tourists from across the country.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lucas is served by the Sylvan-Lucas USD 299 district, with students attending Lucas-Sylvan Unified High School in nearby Sylvan Grove. The town’s most famous landmark is the Garden of Eden, which has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a popular tourist attraction. Another notable site is the Grassroots Art Center, which showcases the work of self-taught artists and folk art from across the country. Wilson Lake, located just south of Lucas, provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. Each year, the town hosts the Lucas Adam’s Apple Festival, celebrating its artistic roots with parades, art exhibits, and live performances.
Luray
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.26 square miles
- Population: Approximately 175 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 67649
- Latitude: 39.2361° N
- Longitude: 98.6912° W
Location and History
Luray is a small agricultural town located in the northeastern part of Russell County. Founded in 1871, the town was named after Luray, Virginia, and grew as a farming community in the fertile plains of Kansas. The arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad helped boost the town’s economy by connecting local farmers to broader markets. Wheat, corn, and cattle have been the backbone of Luray’s economy since its inception. Although the town has seen a decline in population over the decades, it remains a tight-knit community with a deep connection to its agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Luray is part of the USD 299 Sylvan-Lucas Unified school district, with students attending schools in nearby Sylvan Grove. Key landmarks in the town include the Luray Community Center, which hosts local events and gatherings. The Luray United Methodist Church, a historic institution, continues to serve the spiritual needs of the community. The town’s proximity to Wilson Lake provides residents and visitors with opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and camping. Each summer, Luray holds its annual Fourth of July celebration, complete with fireworks, a parade, and a community barbecue, bringing together residents and visitors in celebration of small-town life.
Dorrance
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.30 square miles
- Population: Approximately 175 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 67634
- Latitude: 38.8419° N
- Longitude: 98.5873° W
Location and History
Dorrance is a small town located in southeastern Russell County, near Interstate 70. Founded in 1880, Dorrance was established as a railroad town along the Kansas Pacific Railroad, which provided vital transportation links for local farmers and ranchers. The town was named after Oliver Dorrance, a railroad official, and its early economy was built around agriculture, with wheat, corn, and livestock being the primary products. Over the years, Dorrance has maintained its agricultural roots while serving as a small but active community. Although the population has decreased, the town remains a symbol of rural life in Kansas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dorrance is part of USD 328, with students attending schools in nearby Wilson. The town’s key landmark is the Dorrance Historical Society Museum, which preserves local history and exhibits artifacts from the town’s past. The museum is housed in one of Dorrance’s original buildings and offers a glimpse into the early days of the town’s development. Dorrance is also close to Wilson Lake, which attracts visitors for outdoor recreation. Each year, the town hosts the Dorrance Days celebration, featuring a parade, games, and a community picnic, bringing together residents and visitors to celebrate the town’s heritage.
Bunker Hill
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.22 square miles
- Population: Approximately 90 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 67626
- Latitude: 38.8700° N
- Longitude: 98.7029° W
Location and History
Bunker Hill is one of the smallest towns in Russell County, located just off Interstate 70, about 10 miles east of Russell. Founded in 1871, Bunker Hill was named after the famous Battle of Bunker Hill during the American Revolution. The town was initially settled by Civil War veterans and grew as a small farming community. Like many towns in Kansas, Bunker Hill’s early economy was based on wheat and livestock farming. While its population has steadily declined over the years, Bunker Hill has retained its historical charm and remains an important part of Russell County’s rural landscape.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bunker Hill is part of USD 407, with students typically attending schools in Russell. One of the town’s key landmarks is the Bunker Hill United Methodist Church, a historic building that continues to serve the community. The town is also home to several historic homes and buildings that reflect its 19th-century roots. Bunker Hill’s close proximity to Wilson Lake offers recreational opportunities, making it a convenient spot for fishing, hiking, and camping. Despite its small size, the town participates in local events and county fairs, maintaining a strong sense of community and rural tradition.
Paradise
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.20 square miles
- Population: Approximately 50 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 67658
- Latitude: 39.1156° N
- Longitude: 98.9151° W
Location and History
Paradise is a small town located in the northern part of Russell County. Founded in 1889, the town was named by early settlers who considered the lush, green valley in which it sits a “paradise” compared to the surrounding plains. Like other towns in the region, Paradise developed as a farming community, with wheat and cattle being the primary sources of income for local residents. The arrival of the railroad helped the town grow, although it has remained small throughout its history. Today, Paradise offers a quiet, rural lifestyle with deep ties to its agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Paradise is part of the USD 399 school district, and students typically attend schools in nearby Natoma. The Paradise United Methodist Church is a central landmark in the town, serving the spiritual needs of its residents for over a century. The town’s location near the Saline River provides opportunities for outdoor activities, including fishing and picnicking. Each year, the town holds a small community gathering to celebrate its founding, offering residents a chance to come together and celebrate their shared history and rural way of life. Although small, Paradise embodies the strong sense of community that defines many small Kansas towns.
