Clayton County, Iowa
Clayton County is located along the Mississippi River in northeast Iowa. Its dramatic bluffs, valleys, and river landscapes contribute to the county’s scenic character and make it a notable destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
With a population of about 17,000 people, Clayton County is home to Elkader, the county seat. The community was named in honor of John Middleton Clayton, a lawyer, politician, and U.S. Senator.
The county features numerous scenic attractions and outdoor destinations. Pikes Peak State Park offers impressive views overlooking the Mississippi River, while U.S. Highway 52 provides convenient access for exploring the surrounding landscapes and communities.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Clayton County |
| County Seat | Elkader |
| Etymology | Named after John M. Clayton, Delaware Senator |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Elkader, Guttenberg, McGregor, Marquette, St. Olaf, Strawberry Point, Edgewood, Volga |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 52, Iowa Highway 3, Iowa Highway 13, Iowa Highway 56 |
| FIPS Code | 19-043 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 772 square miles (land: 767 sq mi, water: 5 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Allamakee County (North), Crawford County, Wisconsin (Northeast), Grant County, Wisconsin (East), Dubuque County (Southeast), Delaware County (South), Buchanan County (Southwest), Fayette County (West), Winneshiek County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 42.68°N, 91.34°W |
| Major Landmarks | Guttenberg River Walk, Pikes Peak State Park, Clayton County Historical Society Museum, National Scenic Byway |
| Population | 17,200 |
