Lake County, Tennessee
Lake County sits in the northwestern corner of Tennessee, right along the borders of Missouri and Kentucky. It’s the smallest county in the state, but there’s plenty packed into its tiny footprint.
Water is a huge part of life here. Reelfoot Lake covers a large portion of the county, along with the surrounding wildlife area. The lake is unlike most others, having formed after a series of powerful earthquakes in 1811. Today, it’s a popular destination for fishing, birdwatching, and enjoying the peaceful scenery.
Tiptonville serves as the county seat and sits along the Mississippi River, offering some impressive river views. Ridgely is the county’s only other town. Agriculture remains important, with wide stretches of cotton fields covering much of the countryside. Despite its small size, Lake County has plenty of natural beauty and character.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Lake County |
| County Seat | Tiptonville |
| Population | Approximately 7,500 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Tiptonville, Ridgely |
| Interstates and Highways | State Highway 22, State Highway 78 |
| FIPS Code | 47-095 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 194 square miles (166 sq mi land, 28 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Fulton County, Kentucky (North), Obion County (East), Dyer County (South), Pemiscot County, Missouri (West), New Madrid County, Missouri (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Tennessee |
| Coordinates | 36°21’N, 89°28’W |
| Etymology | Named after Reelfoot Lake, which is within the county |
| Major Landmarks | Reelfoot Lake State Park, Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, Lake Isom National Wildlife Refuge |
