Caribou County, Idaho

Caribou County sits in southeastern Idaho, surrounded by rolling hills, broad valleys, and a mix of high desert and mountain terrain. Soda Springs, the county seat, is famous for its naturally carbonated water and unusual Soda Springs geyser. The local economy is rooted in farming, ranching, and phosphate mining, which remains an important industry in the region.

A large portion of the county is covered by Caribou National Forest, offering plenty of opportunities for hunting, fishing, ATV riding, and other outdoor recreation. The historic Oregon Trail also passed through the area, and traces of that history can still be found if you know where to look.

Caribou County has a strong rural and traditional character, with deep Mormon cultural influence and tight-knit communities. The population has been gradually declining as younger residents move toward larger cities, but those who stay appreciate the wide-open spaces, quiet lifestyle, and close connection to the outdoors.

CategoryDetails
County NameCaribou County
County SeatSoda Springs
EtymologyNamed after the Caribou Mountains and River
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesSoda Springs, Bancroft, Grace, and more
Interstates and HighwaysU.S. Route 30, Idaho State Highway 34, Idaho State Highway 36
FIPS Code16-029
Total Area1,786 square miles (land: 1,778 sq mi; water: 8 sq mi)
Adjacent CountiesBonneville County (North), Lincoln County, Wyoming (East), Bear Lake County (South), Franklin County (South), Bannock County (West), Bingham County (Northwest)
Time ZoneMountain Time Zone
StateIdaho
Coordinates42.7° N, 111.6° W
Major LandmarksSoda Springs Geyser, Bear River, Caribou-Targhee National Forest
Population7,500
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