Decatur County, Kansas
Decatur County is located in the northwestern corner of Kansas, with about 2,600 residents spread across its High Plains landscape. The county has a distinctive square shape, surrounded by wide-open rural scenery.
Oberlin, the county seat, is home to the Last Indian Raid Museum, which preserves the history of what is recognized as the last Native American raid in Kansas. The museum offers visitors an opportunity to learn more about the region’s frontier-era history.
Geology enthusiasts can explore the county’s striking chalk badlands, which add rugged formations to the surrounding plains. Just east of the county, Prairie Dog State Park provides opportunities to see prairie dogs in their natural habitat while enjoying the area’s scenic outdoor landscapes.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Decatur County |
| County Seat | Oberlin |
| Etymology | Named after Stephen Decatur, naval commodore and War of 1812 hero |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Oberlin, Lenora, and several smaller communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 36, Kansas Highway 27 |
| FIPS Code | 20-039 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 2,300 square miles (land: 2,297 sq mi, water: 3 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Red Willow County, Nebraska (North), Furnas County, Nebraska (Northeast), Norton County (East), Sheridan County (South), Thomas County (Southwest), Rawlins County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Kansas |
| Coordinates | 39.83°N, 101.28°W |
| Major Landmarks | Decatur County Historical Society Museum, Kansas State Line Monument |
| Population | 2,600 |
