Cities and Towns in Stone County, Mississippi
Founded in 1916, Stone County is one of 82 counties in the state of Mississippi. Historically, Stone County was formed from Harrison County. The city of Wiggins is the county seat. With FIPS code of 131, Stone County has a population of 18,644 and area of 445 square miles (1,153 km²).
List of all cities in Stone County, MS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Big Level, MS | 39573 | 601/769 |
| Crane Creek, MS | 39573 | 601/769 |
| Daisy Vestry, MS | 39573 | 601/769 |
| Inda, MS | 39573 | 601/769 |
| McHenry, MS | 39561 | 601/769 |
| Necaise, MS | 39573 | 601/769 |
| Perkinston, MS | 39573 | 601/769 |
| Riceville, MS | 39573 | 601/769 |
| Sellers, MS | 39573 | 601/769 |
| Silver Run, MS | 39573 | 601/769 |
| Ten Mile, MS | 39573 | 601/769 |
| Whites Crossing, MS | 39577 | 601/769 |
| Wiggins, MS | 39577 | 601/769 |
Major Cities and Towns in Stone County, Mississippi
Stone County is located in the southern part of Mississippi, known for its natural beauty, small-town charm, and strong ties to agriculture. The county is home to several towns and communities, each with its own unique history and role in the development of the region. Below are the major cities and towns in Stone County, Mississippi, with details on their geography, history, schools, and landmarks.
Wiggins
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 5.7 square miles
- Population: 4,500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39577
- Latitude: 30.8595° N
- Longitude: 89.1533° W
Location and History
Wiggins is the county seat and largest town in Stone County, located in the southeastern part of the county. Established in 1904, the town of Wiggins was named after the Wiggins family, who were prominent landowners in the area. Its location along the Gulf Coast’s piney woods and close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico made Wiggins a key center for timber and agricultural industries. The town grew quickly after its incorporation, particularly with the arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century, which brought both economic opportunity and access to larger markets. During the 20th century, the region’s economy diversified, and Wiggins began to develop into a service hub for surrounding rural areas. In addition to its timber and agriculture-based economy, Wiggins became known for its local arts, culture, and community events, with a growing tourism industry driven by its natural surroundings.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Wiggins is served by the Stone County School District, which includes Stone High School and Wiggins Elementary School. The town features several key landmarks, including the Stone County Courthouse, a historic building in the center of the town that serves as a focal point for local government and civic life. Wiggins is also home to Floral Hill Cemetery, a significant historical site with ties to the early settlers of the town. The Deer Island Wildlife Preserve located nearby provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, hiking, and fishing. Wiggins also offers local festivals, such as the Stone County Fair and Wiggins Heritage Festival, which celebrate the town’s rich cultural traditions. With its mix of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural activities, Wiggins remains a key destination for visitors to Stone County.
Perkinston
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: 1,600 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39573
- Latitude: 30.8539° N
- Longitude: 89.1462° W
Location and History
Perkinston is a small town located in the western part of Stone County, approximately 10 miles north of Wiggins. The town was founded in the late 19th century and was named after early settler Isaac Perkins. Initially, Perkinston’s economy revolved around the timber industry and agriculture, much like the rest of the area, and the town grew modestly through the early 20th century. Perkinston became an important stop for the railroad, which further developed its economy. In the mid-20th century, the town shifted toward tourism, largely due to its proximity to the De Soto National Forest and the natural beauty of the region. Today, Perkinston is known for its small-town atmosphere and quiet rural charm. The town has grown to accommodate both agriculture and tourism, providing a base for visitors exploring the surrounding forests, rivers, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Perkinston is served by the Stone County School District and is home to Stone County High School. The town’s educational facilities are important to the community, which has a strong focus on local engagement and rural values. Major landmarks in Perkinston include the De Soto National Forest, which surrounds the town and provides numerous trails for hiking, biking, and camping, as well as opportunities for wildlife viewing. Perkinston Park is another popular spot for residents and visitors, offering picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities. The Perkinston Heritage Museum celebrates the town’s history and culture, with exhibits on the early settlers, the town’s growth, and its place in the larger context of Stone County. Perkinston remains a charming example of small-town Mississippi, combining outdoor adventure with a peaceful, community-centered lifestyle.
Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 20.0 square miles (refuge area)
- Population: N/A (Federal Land)
- Zip Code: 39573
- Latitude: 30.4333° N
- Longitude: 89.0544° W
Location and History
Although not a town, the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge is a vital part of Stone County and its environmental and cultural landscape. The refuge, located near the town of Perkinston, was established in 1975 to protect the endangered Mississippi sandhill crane, a species native to the region. The wildlife refuge encompasses over 19,000 acres of pine savannas, wetlands, and forested areas, and is a critical site for conservation efforts. The history of the refuge is tied to the efforts to preserve the sandhill crane, which faced near extinction due to habitat loss and hunting. The refuge is not only important for wildlife conservation but also serves as a natural sanctuary that attracts visitors from around the country. Over time, it has become a key focus of ecological research and environmental education in the region.
Schools and Major Landmarks
The Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge does not have schools, as it is federal land managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. However, it serves as a valuable educational resource for local schools and visitors interested in conservation, ecology, and wildlife protection. Major landmarks within the refuge include the Visitor Center, where educational exhibits are displayed about the sandhill crane and the ecosystem of the region. The refuge also offers a Wildlife Drive where visitors can observe wildlife, including the endangered cranes, and enjoy the scenic views of the wetlands. The Nature Trails are another feature of the refuge, providing hiking paths that wind through the unique landscape of the area. The Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge is an important part of Stone County’s commitment to environmental stewardship and preservation of its natural beauty.
Other Communities in Stone County
In addition to Wiggins, Perkinston, and the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge, Stone County is home to smaller communities and rural areas such as Saucier, Lyman, and Vancleave. These communities contribute to the county’s agricultural economy and are close-knit, with strong ties to the land and natural resources. Stone County’s rural atmosphere is enriched by its proximity to the Gulf Coast and the extensive forests and wildlife areas that surround it. Many of these small communities have historic churches, local parks, and family-run businesses that define the character of the region.