Fayette County, Iowa

Fayette County stretches across northeast Iowa. Oelwein, the largest town, was once a major railroad hub, while West Union serves as the county seat.

The county is home to the Upper Iowa River, a favorite destination for camping, hiking, and fishing. Gouldsburg Park near Hawkeye is also a local favorite for picnics and fishing.

Fayette County is a true piece of Americana. Whether you’re exploring its scenic rivers or strolling through its quaint towns, you’ll find that it captures the heartland spirit of Iowa.

CategoryDetails
County NameFayette County
County SeatWest Union
EtymologyNamed after the French Revolutionary figure, Lafayette, the Marquis de Lafayette
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesFayette, West Union, Oelwein, Elgin, Hawkeye, Maynard, Arlington, Starmont
Interstates and HighwaysU.S. Highway 18, U.S. Highway 150, Iowa Highway 93
FIPS Code19-065
Total Area (Land and Water)731 square miles (land: 727 sq mi, water: 4 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Allamakee County (Northeast), Black Hawk County (Southwest), Buchanan County (South), Bremer County (West), Chickasaw County (Northwest), Clayton County (East), Delaware County (Southeast), Winneshiek County (North)
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CST)
Population20,000
StateIowa
Coordinates42.73°N, 91.80°W
Major LandmarksVolga River State Recreation Area, Oelwein’s Historic Downtown, Fayette County Fairgrounds
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