Cities and Towns in Washburn County, Wisconsin

Founded in 1883, Washburn County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Washburn County was formed from Burnett County. The city of Shell Lake is the county seat. With FIPS code of 129, Washburn County has a population of 16,752 and area of 797.11 square miles (2,065 km²).

 

List of all cities in Washburn County, WI alphabetically

  • Birchwood, WI
  • Minong, WI
  • Sarona, WI
  • Shell Lake, WI
  • Spooner, WI
  • Springbrook, WI
  • Trego, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Washburn County, Wisconsin

1. Spooner

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 3.73 square miles
  • Population: 2,682 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 54801
  • Latitude: 45.8291° N
  • Longitude: 91.8913° W

Location and History

Spooner is the county seat of Washburn County, located in the northwestern part of Wisconsin. The city was originally established as a railroad town in the late 19th century, named after Senator John Coit Spooner, a prominent political figure in Wisconsin at the time. Spooner developed rapidly due to its strategic location as a junction for multiple railroad lines, making it a key hub for the logging industry. Over time, as the logging industry declined, Spooner transitioned into a center for agriculture, tourism, and outdoor recreation. The city’s history is closely tied to the development of transportation networks in northern Wisconsin, which shaped its growth and economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Spooner is served by the Spooner Area School District, which includes Spooner High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Major landmarks include the Wisconsin Canoe Heritage Museum, which celebrates the region’s rich canoeing traditions, and the Railroad Memories Museum, housed in the historic Spooner Railroad Depot, which preserves the city’s railroad heritage. The city is also known for the annual Spooner Rodeo, one of the oldest and largest rodeos in Wisconsin, drawing visitors from across the region. Additionally, Spooner is a gateway to numerous lakes, rivers, and forests, making it a popular destination for fishing, boating, and outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Shell Lake

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 13.14 square miles
  • Population: 1,327 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 54871
  • Latitude: 45.7349° N
  • Longitude: 91.9271° W

Location and History

Shell Lake is located in the southern part of Washburn County and is known for its scenic beauty, particularly Shell Lake itself, the largest undeveloped lake in the county. The city was established in the late 19th century and developed as a summer resort and vacation destination, thanks to the lake’s clear waters and excellent fishing opportunities. Over the years, Shell Lake has maintained its reputation as a peaceful retreat for tourists and a close-knit community for residents. The city’s history is deeply connected to its natural surroundings, with the lake playing a central role in its identity and economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Shell Lake is served by the Shell Lake School District, which includes Shell Lake High School and Elementary School. Major landmarks include Shell Lake Arts Center, which offers summer music and arts programs for youth, and the Shell Lake Municipal Campground, located on the shores of Shell Lake, providing camping, swimming, and boating opportunities. The city also hosts several annual events, such as the Town and Country Days, which features parades, live music, and other community activities. The Shell Lake Public Library and Museum offers insights into the area’s history and culture, further enriching the city’s community life.

3. Minong

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.71 square miles
  • Population: 517 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 54859
  • Latitude: 46.0980° N
  • Longitude: 91.8274° W

Location and History

Minong is a small village located in the northern part of Washburn County, near the border with Douglas County. The village was established in the late 19th century, primarily as a logging community. Its name is derived from the Native American word “Minong,” meaning “good place” or “high hill,” reflecting its elevated location in the region. Minong’s early economy was centered on the timber industry, but as the logging activity diminished, the village transitioned to a quieter, rural community. Today, Minong is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including access to numerous lakes, trails, and forests.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Minong is part of the Northwood School District, with Northwood High School serving the local community. Major landmarks include the Totogatic County Park, located on the Totogatic Flowage, offering camping, boating, and fishing opportunities. The Minong Flowage, a large reservoir, is another popular destination for water sports and fishing. The village also hosts the annual Minong Summer Days, a community festival featuring parades, live music, and family-friendly activities. The nearby Namekagon River, part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, provides additional opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

4. Birchwood

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.22 square miles
  • Population: 442 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 54817
  • Latitude: 45.6441° N
  • Longitude: 91.5529° W

Location and History

Birchwood is a small village located in the southeastern corner of Washburn County, near the border with Barron County. Known as the “Bluegill Capital of Wisconsin,” Birchwood was established in the late 19th century and developed as a logging and farming community. The village is situated near several lakes, including Birch Lake, which has made it a popular destination for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. Over the years, Birchwood has maintained its small-town charm and has become a retreat for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Birchwood is served by the Birchwood School District, which includes Birchwood High School. Major landmarks include Birch Lake and the surrounding parks, which offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. The village is also home to the Birchwood Bluegill Festival, an annual event that celebrates the area’s fishing heritage with parades, fishing contests, and other community activities. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail passes near Birchwood, providing additional opportunities for hiking and exploring the region’s unique geological features. The village’s proximity to numerous lakes and forests makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.

5. Trego

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 36.2 square miles
  • Population: 924 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 54888
  • Latitude: 45.8881° N
  • Longitude: 91.8102° W

Location and History

Trego is a small town located in the central part of Washburn County, situated along the Namekagon River. The town was established in the late 19th century and was initially a logging community due to its proximity to the river, which was used to transport logs. Trego’s name is believed to be derived from the Native American word “Trego,” meaning “the crossing,” referring to the river crossing in the area. Today, Trego is known for its natural beauty and serves as a gateway to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, attracting visitors for outdoor recreation and tourism.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Trego is part of the Spooner Area School District, with students attending schools in nearby Spooner. Major landmarks include the Namekagon River, which is part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway and offers excellent opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The Trego Lake, formed by a dam on the Namekagon River, is another popular destination for water sports and camping. The Namekagon River Visitor Center provides educational exhibits about the river’s history and ecology. The town’s scenic beauty and access to the riverway make it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

6. Stone Lake

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.57 square miles
  • Population: 178 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 54876
  • Latitude: 45.8047° N
  • Longitude: 91.5538° W

Location and History

Stone Lake is a small unincorporated community located in the southern part of Washburn County, near the border with Sawyer County. The community is named after the nearby Stone Lake, which has been a popular destination for fishing, boating, and vacationing for over a century. Stone Lake was established in the late 19th century as a logging settlement, but as the logging industry declined, it transitioned into a quiet resort community. Today, Stone Lake is known for its picturesque setting and friendly, small-town atmosphere, attracting both residents and visitors looking for a peaceful retreat.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Stone Lake is part of the Hayward Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Hayward. Major landmarks include Stone Lake and its surrounding parks, which offer opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. The community is also known for the annual Stone Lake Cranberry Festival, which celebrates the local cranberry harvest with parades, craft fairs, and food vendors. The festival draws thousands of visitors each year and is one of the largest events in the area. The Stone Lake Historical Society operates a small museum that preserves the history of the community and its surrounding areas, offering a glimpse into the region’s past.