Cities and Towns in Wadena County, Minnesota
Founded in 1858, Wadena County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Wadena County was formed from Cass County and Todd County. The city of Wadena is the county seat. With FIPS code of 159, Wadena County has a population of 14,177 and area of 535.02 square miles (1,386 km²).
List of all cities in Wadena County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Aldrich, MN | 56434 | 218 |
| Blueberry, MN | 56464 | 218 |
| Huntersville, MN | 56464 | 218 |
| Menahga, MN | 56464 | 218 |
| Midway, MN | 56464 | 218 |
| Nimrod, MN | 56478 | 218 |
| Oylen, MN | 56481 | 218 |
| Runeberg, MN | 56464 | 218 |
| Sebeka, MN | 56477 | 218 |
| Shell River, MN | 56464 | 218 |
| Thomastown, MN | 56481 | 218 |
| Verndale, MN | 56481 | 218 |
| Wadena, MN | 56482 | 218 |
| Wing River, MN | 56481 | 218 |
Major Cities and Towns in Wadena County, Minnesota
Wadena County is located in central Minnesota and is known for its rich natural beauty, including forests, lakes, and prairies. The county seat, Wadena, is the largest city in the county, while smaller communities like Menahga and Staples also contribute to the area’s history, culture, and economy. Wadena County offers a blend of rural charm, outdoor recreation, and small-town hospitality. Below are the details about the major cities and towns in Wadena County.
1. Wadena
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 6.1 square miles
- Population: 4,000 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56482
- Latitude: 46.4423° N
- Longitude: 95.1446° W
Location and History:
Wadena is located in the central part of Minnesota, approximately 150 miles northwest of the Twin Cities. The city was founded in the late 19th century, and its name is derived from the Wadena River, which flows nearby. Wadena was initially a trading post and later became a hub for the region’s agricultural industry, particularly wheat and timber, with the arrival of the railroad in the 1880s. Over the years, Wadena has grown into a regional center for commerce and services, while retaining its small-town atmosphere.
Wadena played an important role during the early years of Minnesota’s statehood, and its history is deeply tied to the logging and milling industries. By the 20th century, the city had developed a strong local economy, focusing on agriculture and retail. Today, Wadena is known for its beautiful surroundings, with forests, rivers, and lakes nearby. The city also continues to serve as a local hub for trade, education, and government services for residents in the surrounding rural areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Wadena is served by the Wadena-Deer Creek School District, which includes Wadena-Deer Creek High School and Wadena Elementary School. Major landmarks in the city include The Wadena County Courthouse, an historic building in the heart of downtown, and the Wadena County Historical Society, which offers exhibits on the local history. The Tamarack Nature Preserve is a nearby attraction for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails and opportunities for bird watching. The Wadena City Park provides recreational facilities, including baseball fields and picnic areas, and the North Country Museum of Arts hosts local art exhibitions. Wadena is also known for its annual events, such as Wadena’s Annual Christmas Parade and the Wadena County Fair, which celebrate the community’s traditions and bring visitors from all over the region.
2. Menahga
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.8 square miles
- Population: 1,200 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56464
- Latitude: 46.6082° N
- Longitude: 95.1509° W
Location and History:
Menahga is located in the northern part of Wadena County, surrounded by the beauty of central Minnesota’s lakes and forests. The town was established in the early 1900s and named after Menahga, a Native American word meaning “lake of the rolling hills.” Historically, Menahga has been a rural community with a focus on logging, agriculture, and tourism. As logging was a major industry in the area during the early 20th century, Menahga was a key location for timber processing and the transportation of logs to nearby mills.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Menahga transitioned toward a more tourism-focused economy, with the surrounding lakes and forests offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The town remains a quiet, tight-knit community with a strong connection to nature and a laid-back lifestyle. Menahga’s central location near the Hungry Jack Lake and other local natural resources also makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a more rural lifestyle while still being close to larger towns like Wadena.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Menahga is served by the Menahga School District, which includes Menahga High School and Menahga Elementary School. The town is known for its beautiful surrounding nature, including Hungry Jack Lake, a popular spot for fishing and boating. The Menahga City Park features trails for walking and biking, and Thunderbird Resort, located on the shores of Thunder Lake, provides cabins and camping opportunities for visitors. Another notable landmark is the Menahga Depot, a restored railway station that celebrates the town’s historical roots in transportation and logging. The Menahga Arts and Culture Center is a venue for local performances and community events. The town hosts annual events like the Menahga Jamboree Days, a celebration of the town’s history and community spirit, complete with a parade, music, and local food.
3. Staples
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 3.4 square miles
- Population: 3,000 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56479
- Latitude: 46.3586° N
- Longitude: 94.7745° W
Location and History:
Staples, located in the southwestern part of Wadena County, was founded in 1885 and named after James Staples, an early settler and the town’s first postmaster. Staples grew rapidly as a railroad town, with the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway facilitating trade, commerce, and the transportation of timber from the surrounding forests. Staples became a key location for the lumber industry, and its proximity to natural resources like the Crow Wing River helped support the local economy.
In the 20th century, Staples expanded beyond its early focus on timber, adding agriculture, retail, and manufacturing to its economic base. The town retains much of its historical charm, with buildings that reflect its early days as a railroad and timber center. Staples has become a regional center for services, healthcare, and retail, while still offering small-town values and community events. Its location along major highways makes it an important hub for surrounding rural communities.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Staples is served by the Staples-Motley School District, with Staples High School and Motley High School providing quality education to local students. The Staples Community Center offers various recreational and cultural programs for residents, and The Staples Historical Society preserves the history of the area through exhibits and events. A notable landmark is the Staples Depot Museum, which celebrates the city’s railroad and logging heritage. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Alexander provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. The Crow Wing River runs through the city, offering additional opportunities for outdoor recreation. Staples hosts the Staples Summerfest, an annual event featuring live music, food, and community celebrations. The North Country Trail, a long-distance hiking trail, also passes near the city and offers stunning views of the area’s natural beauty.
4. Verndale
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: 500 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56481
- Latitude: 46.3305° N
- Longitude: 94.7274° W
Location and History:
Verndale is a small, rural community located in the southern part of Wadena County, along the banks of the Shell River. The town was founded in the early 1900s, and its economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, particularly crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat. The town’s rural setting provides a peaceful environment, with a strong sense of community among its residents.
Verndale’s location near the river and its proximity to local lakes make it an attractive spot for outdoor activities, especially fishing and hunting. While the town remains small, it has managed to maintain a close-knit, small-town character, with residents often involved in local events and community service. Verndale’s strong agricultural roots continue to shape its identity, and the town remains a quiet retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Verndale is served by the Verndale Public Schools District, which includes Verndale High School and Verndale Elementary School. The town’s primary landmark is the Shell River, which offers recreational opportunities like fishing and kayaking. The Verndale Community Center serves as a gathering place for events, sports leagues, and social activities. The town hosts Verndale Days, an annual celebration featuring a parade, food, and entertainment. The Verndale Historical Society preserves the town’s agricultural history and offers exhibits on the area’s pioneer days. Although Verndale is a small town, it has a strong community spirit and hosts local events throughout the year.
