Boone County, Iowa
Boone County is located in central Iowa and is well known for its strong railroad heritage. The Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad travels through the scenic Des Moines River Valley, offering passengers impressive views of the surrounding countryside.
Approximately 26,000 people live in Boone County. Each August, the Iowa Municipal Band Festival brings live music and community spirit to downtown Boone. The Des Moines River is another prominent geographic feature, flowing through the county.
Ledges State Park is known for its dramatic sandstone canyons, attracting hikers, picnickers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Mamie Eisenhower, who was born in Boone, is commemorated at a birthplace museum. With its scenic trails, local festivals, railroad history, and peaceful countryside, Boone County reflects the character of central Iowa.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Boone County |
| County Seat | Boone |
| Etymology | Named after Captain Nathan Boone, a U.S. Army officer and son of frontiersman Daniel Boone |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Boone, Ogden, Madrid, Luther, Berkley, Fraser, Pilot Mound, Moingona |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 30, U.S. Highway 169, Iowa Highway 17 |
| FIPS Code | 19-015 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 573 square miles (land: 571 sq mi, water: 2 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Dallas County (South), Greene County (West), Hamilton County (Northeast), Polk County (Southeast), Story County (East), Webster County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 42.05°N, 93.90°W |
| Major Landmarks | Ledges State Park, Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad, Seven Oaks Recreation, Mamie Doud Eisenhower Birthplace |
| Population | 26,000 |
