Cities and Towns in Russell County, Kentucky
Founded in 1825, Russell County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Russell County was formed from Adair County, Wayne County and Cumberland County. The city of Jamestown is the county seat. With FIPS code of 207, Russell County has a population of 18,156 and area of 254 square miles (658 km²).
List of all cities in Russell County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bryan, KY | 42629 | 270 |
| Creelsboro, KY | 42629 | 270 |
| Jamestown, KY | 42629 | 270 |
| Rowena, KY | 42629 | 270 |
| Russell Springs, KY | 42642 | 270 |
| Sewellton, KY | 42629 | 270 |
| Webbs Cross Roads, KY | 42642 | 270 |
Major Cities and Towns in Russell County, Kentucky
Russell Springs
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 4.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,500 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 42642
- Latitude: 37.0542° N
- Longitude: 85.0782° W
Location and History
Russell Springs, located in the heart of Russell County, is one of the county’s main commercial and cultural hubs. Founded in the mid-19th century, the town was originally known as “Big Boiling Springs” due to the natural springs that were popular with early settlers. In 1850, it was renamed Russell Springs in honor of the prominent Russell family, who contributed to the development of the town and surrounding region. Over time, the city grew as a center for agriculture and trade, particularly with the rise of tobacco farming and other crops. Today, Russell Springs is known for its proximity to Lake Cumberland, one of the largest man-made lakes in the U.S., which attracts thousands of tourists each year for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Russell Springs is served by the Russell County School District, which includes Russell County High School and Russell Springs Elementary School. A key landmark is the historic Star Theater, which has been a part of the community since the 1940s and still offers entertainment today. The town’s proximity to Lake Cumberland makes it a gateway to numerous recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking in Lake Cumberland State Resort Park. Additionally, the city hosts the annual Lakefest, a summer event that features fireworks, live music, and a variety of family-friendly activities, drawing visitors from across the region.
Jamestown
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 2.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,800 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 42629
- Latitude: 36.9848° N
- Longitude: 85.0647° W
Location and History
Jamestown, the county seat of Russell County, is located just south of Russell Springs and is considered the historical heart of the county. Established in 1826 and named after James Wooldridge, one of the area’s early settlers, the town quickly became a center for local government and commerce. Jamestown developed alongside the Cumberland River, which played a significant role in its early economy. The construction of Wolf Creek Dam and the creation of Lake Cumberland in the mid-20th century transformed the area into a popular tourist destination. While the town retains its small-town charm, it has also become a gateway for visitors heading to the lake for recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Jamestown is part of the Russell County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Russell Springs, including Russell County High School. The Russell County Courthouse, built in the early 1900s, is a key landmark and remains an active hub of county government. Jamestown Marina, located on Lake Cumberland, is another major attraction, offering boat rentals, fishing, and access to the lake’s many coves and scenic spots. Wolf Creek Dam, which creates Lake Cumberland, is not only an engineering marvel but also a popular spot for visitors who come to enjoy the dam overlook and picnic areas. The town hosts several annual events, including the popular Lake Cumberland Poker Run.
Creelsboro
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 42629 (Shares with Jamestown)
- Latitude: 36.9039° N
- Longitude: 85.2533° W
Location and History
Creelsboro is an unincorporated community located along the Cumberland River in southern Russell County. In the 19th century, Creelsboro was a bustling river port town, serving as a key trading post for the region’s farmers and merchants. Named after Elijah Creel, one of the first settlers in the area, the town thrived on riverboat trade and became one of the largest towns in the county before the rise of railroads diminished its importance. Today, Creelsboro is known for its quiet, rural setting and proximity to the famed Creelsboro Natural Arch (commonly called “The Rockhouse”), a massive rock formation that draws visitors and hikers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
While Creelsboro does not have its own schools, students attend schools in nearby Jamestown and Russell Springs. The community’s most famous landmark is the Creelsboro Natural Arch, a massive limestone arch that has been shaped by centuries of erosion. It is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for photography. The Cumberland River runs through the area, providing access for fishing and boating. Although Creelsboro is no longer the thriving port town it once was, its rich history and stunning natural beauty make it a quiet retreat for those looking to explore Kentucky’s natural landscape.
Russell Heights
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 42642 (Shares with Russell Springs)
- Latitude: 37.0571° N
- Longitude: 85.0813° W
Location and History
Russell Heights is a small, unincorporated community located just outside of Russell Springs. The area developed in the mid-20th century as a residential neighborhood serving the growing population of Russell Springs. Known for its peaceful, suburban environment, Russell Heights offers a quiet lifestyle with close access to the amenities of Russell Springs and nearby Lake Cumberland. The community is primarily residential, with many of its inhabitants commuting to work in Russell Springs or Jamestown. Over the years, Russell Heights has maintained its status as a desirable residential area, with many families calling the community home.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Russell Heights falls under the jurisdiction of the Russell County School District, with children attending schools in Russell Springs. While the community itself does not have major landmarks, its proximity to Russell Springs provides residents with easy access to key attractions such as the Star Theater and Lake Cumberland. Additionally, the nearby Lake Cumberland State Resort Park offers a range of recreational activities, from hiking and boating to picnicking and wildlife viewing. The quiet streets and well-kept homes of Russell Heights make it an appealing neighborhood for those seeking a suburban lifestyle close to the natural beauty of Lake Cumberland.
Salem
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 42642 (Shares with Russell Springs)
- Latitude: 37.0006° N
- Longitude: 85.1944° W
Location and History
Salem is a small, unincorporated community located southeast of Russell Springs in Russell County. Settled in the early 19th century, Salem developed as an agricultural community, with local farmers growing tobacco, corn, and other crops. The town’s rural location and fertile soil made it an ideal place for farming, and many of the original families in the area have remained involved in agriculture for generations. While Salem has remained small and largely residential, it has preserved its rural charm and continues to play a role in the agricultural economy of Russell County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Salem is served by the Russell County School District, with students attending schools in Russell Springs. The community is home to several historic churches, including Salem Baptist Church, which has been a cornerstone of the town’s social and religious life since its founding. The surrounding countryside offers picturesque views of rolling farmland and wooded areas, making it a scenic place to live. Although small, Salem provides a quiet, rural lifestyle for its residents, with easy access to the amenities and attractions of Russell Springs and Jamestown. The community’s annual church and harvest events bring residents together to celebrate their agricultural heritage.
