Branch County, Michigan
Branch County is located in southern Michigan, along the border with Indiana. Coldwater, the county seat and largest community, serves as the center of local activity, while farms and forests cover much of the surrounding landscape.
The county’s numerous lakes provide excellent opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation throughout the year. Summers bring county fairs, festivals, and community events, while winter transforms the landscape with cold temperatures and snow, creating a quieter seasonal atmosphere.
Branch County combines local history, small-town communities, and rural scenery in a relaxed setting. Away from Michigan’s more heavily visited destinations, the county offers a peaceful landscape where visitors can enjoy lakes, forests, farms, and community life at a slower pace.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Branch County |
| County Seat | Coldwater |
| Etymology | Named for John Branch, a U.S. Senator |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Coldwater, Bronson, Quincy, Union City, Sherwood, Girard |
| Interstates and Highways | I-69, US 12, M-60, M-86 |
| FIPS Code | 26-023 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 520 square miles (Land: 506 sq mi, Water: 14 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Kalamazoo County (Northwest), Calhoun County (North), Hillsdale County (East), Steuben County, Indiana (South), LaGrange County, Indiana (Southwest), St. Joseph County (West) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Michigan |
| Coordinates | 41.9121° N, 85.0233° W |
| Major Landmarks | Coldwater Lake State Park, Tibbits Opera House, Wing House Museum |
| Population | Approximately 44,000 |