Ellsworth County, Kansas
Ellsworth County is located in central Kansas, with wide-open prairie landscapes and a population just under 6,000. The town of Ellsworth, the county seat, was once a lively Old West cowtown and today is known for its relaxed small-town atmosphere and rural character.
Kanopolis Lake, in the southwestern part of the county, is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation. The surrounding Kanopolis State Park offers additional opportunities to enjoy the lake and explore the area’s scenic prairie and natural landscapes.
Visitors can explore the historic Fort Harker guardhouse, a reminder of the county’s frontier-era past. In July, Cowtown Days brings the community together with rodeo events, street dancing, and family-friendly entertainment. For a memorable photo opportunity, visitors can also see the giant Czech egg in Wilson, a unique roadside attraction celebrating the area’s Czech heritage.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Ellsworth County |
| County Seat | Ellsworth |
| Etymology | Named after Fort Ellsworth |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Ellsworth, Wilson, Holyrood, Lorraine, and several smaller communities |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 70, U.S. Highway 281, Kansas Highway 140 |
| FIPS Code | 20-053 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,166 square miles (land: 1,162 sq mi, water: 4 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Lincoln County (North), Saline County (East), McPherson County (Southeast), Rice County (South), Barton County (Southwest), Russell County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Kansas |
| Coordinates | 38.63°N, 98.23°W |
| Major Landmarks | Wilson Lake, the Historic Ellsworth Courthouse, and the Ellsworth County Historical Society Museum |
| Population | 6,000 |
