Rock County, Wisconsin
Rock County, Wisconsin is located along the Wisconsin–Illinois border in southern Wisconsin and is known for its vibrant cities, scenic river landscapes, and rich industrial heritage. The county’s largest cities, Janesville and Beloit, offer a blend of historic downtowns, cultural attractions, shopping, dining, and year-round community events. The Rock River flows through the county, providing excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and riverside recreation.
Rock County has a diverse economy supported by manufacturing, agriculture, education, and healthcare. Beloit College, one of Wisconsin’s oldest private liberal arts colleges, contributes to the county’s educational and cultural landscape. Visitors can also explore attractions such as Beckman Mill County Park, featuring a restored historic gristmill, along with numerous parks, trails, and outdoor recreation areas.
Despite the challenges of industrial change, Rock County has continued to grow through economic redevelopment, tourism, and community investment. Visitors can enjoy local museums, historic sites, and the beautiful Rotary Botanical Gardens in Janesville, while seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and outdoor events make Rock County one of the best places to visit in southern Wisconsin.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Rock County |
| County Seat | Janesville |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Janesville, Beloit, Milton, Evansville, Edgerton |
| Interstates and Highways | I-39, I-90, US-51, WI-11 |
| Etymology | Named after Rock River, which flows through the county |
| FIPS Code | 55-105 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 726 sq mi (Land: 718 sq mi; Water: 8 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Coordinates | 42.6664° N, 89.0711° W |
| Major Landmarks | Lincoln-Tallman House, Rotary Botanical Gardens, Beloit College |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Green County (West), Dane County (North), Jefferson County (Northeast), Walworth County (East), Boone County, Illinois (South), Winnebago County, Illinois (South) |
| Population | Approximately 167,000 |
TRANSPORTATION MAP
Rock County Road Map
Interstate 39/90 is the primary highway serving Rock County, running north-south through Janesville and Beloit and providing convenient access to Madison, Illinois, and surrounding communities. Interstate 43 begins in Beloit and extends northeast, connecting the county to eastern Wisconsin. A network of U.S. highways, state highways, and local roads links Rock County’s cities, parks, businesses, and rural communities, making travel easy for residents and visitors. Use the interactive map below to explore Rock County’s highways, road network, and major destinations.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Rock County Satellite Map
The satellite view of Rock County highlights the urban centers of Janesville and Beloit, which appear as dense areas of residential, commercial, and industrial development. The Rock River winds through both cities, creating a prominent natural feature visible from above. Beyond the urban areas, the landscape transitions into expansive farmland, open fields, and scattered woodlands, reflecting Rock County’s strong agricultural heritage and rural character.
OUTLINE MAP
Rock County Blank Map
Rock County has a mostly rectangular shape and is located in southern Wisconsin, with its southern boundary forming part of the Wisconsin–Illinois state line. The county borders Green, Dane, Jefferson, and Walworth counties in Wisconsin, as well as Winnebago and Boone counties in Illinois. Its combination of straight survey-line boundaries and an international state border gives Rock County its distinctive geographic shape.
Wisconsin County Maps
Wisconsin County Map
Wisconsin is known for its beer, cheese, and proud traditions, but the state’s 72 counties offer far more than familiar stereotypes. From the scenic shorelines of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior to sprawling dairy farms, dense forests, rolling bluffs, and picturesque river valleys, Wisconsin features an incredible variety of landscapes and communities.Each county has its own unique character, history, and attractions.