Clarke County, Iowa
Clarke County is located in southern Iowa, along the edge of the region’s rolling hills. Osceola, the county seat, sits near the center of the county and welcomes travelers along Interstate 35 with its impressive courthouse dome.
The county is also home to an Amish community, where traditional horse-drawn buggies share the roads with cars and farm equipment, reflecting a distinctive rural lifestyle and heritage.
East Lake Park is a popular destination for fishing and outdoor recreation, particularly among anglers seeking catfish. With Interstate 35 running through Clarke County, the area provides convenient access for travelers between Des Moines and the Missouri border.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Clarke County |
| County Seat | Osceola |
| Etymology | Named after James Clarke, the third Governor of Iowa Territory |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Osceola, Murray, Woodburn, Weldon |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 35, U.S. Highway 34, Iowa Highway 152 |
| FIPS Code | 19-039 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 432 square miles (land: 431 sq mi, water: 1 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Decatur County (South), Lucas County (East), Madison County (Northwest), Union County (West), Warren County (Northeast) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 41.03°N, 93.78°W |
| Major Landmarks | East Lake County Park, Clarke County Courthouse, Osceola Depot and Museum, Lakeside Casino |
| Population | 9,800 |
