Calhoun County, Iowa

Calhoun County is located in central Iowa and is a largely landlocked rural county surrounded by expansive farmland. U.S. Highway 20 runs through the county, providing an important connection to nearby communities and surrounding areas.

Rockwell City, the county seat, is known as the “Golden Buckle on the Corn Belt.” With a population of around 9,500, the county maintains a close-knit small-town community and a strong connection to its agricultural surroundings.

Twin Lakes State Park is a popular destination for camping, fishing, and lakeside recreation, offering a peaceful setting for outdoor activities. With its Midwestern farmland, small-town communities, and rural character, Calhoun County reflects the traditional spirit of central Iowa.

CategoryDetails
County NameCalhoun County
County SeatRockwell City
EtymologyNamed after John C. Calhoun, the 7th Vice President of the United States
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesRockwell City, Lake City, Manson, Lohrville, Farnhamville, Pomeroy, Somers, Knierim, Jolley, Yetter
Interstates and HighwaysU.S. Highway 20, Iowa Highway 4, Iowa Highway 7
FIPS Code19-025
Total Area (Land and Water)572 square miles (land: 570 sq mi, water: 2 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Pocahontas County (North), Webster County (East), Greene County (Southeast), Carroll County (Southwest), Sac County (West)
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CST)
StateIowa
Coordinates42.38°N, 94.63°W
Major LandmarksTwin Lakes State Park, Calhoun County Courthouse, Rockwell City Courthouse Square Historic District
Population9,700
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