McDonald County, Missouri
McDonald County is tucked into Missouri’s southwest corner, bordering both Arkansas and Oklahoma. It’s classic Ozark country, known for its hills, hollows, and crystal-clear streams.
The county has a fascinating history. During the Civil War, it was considered a “no man’s land,” but today it is best known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor recreation.
The Elk River is a popular destination for floating, fishing, and summer fun. One of the county’s towns, Noel, earns the nickname “Christmas City” each December, when its post office hand-stamps thousands of holiday cards sent from around the world.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | McDonald County |
| County Seat | Pineville |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Anderson, Pineville, Noel, Southwest City, Goodman, Lanagan, Rocky Comfort, Tiff City |
| Interstates and Highways | I-49, US 71, MO 59, MO 76 |
| Population | Approximately 24,000 |
| FIPS Code | 29-119 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 540 square miles (Land: 539 sq mi, Water: 1 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Missouri |
| Coordinates | 36.6177° N, 94.3661° W |
| Etymology | Named after Sergeant Alexander McDonald, a soldier in the Mexican-American War |
| Major Landmarks | Elk River, Big Sugar Creek State Park, Bluff Dwellers Cave |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Newton County (North), Barry County (East), Benton County, Arkansas (South), Delaware County, Oklahoma (West), Ottawa County, Oklahoma (Northwest) |
