Cheyenne County, Kansas
Cheyenne County is located in the far northwestern corner of Kansas, offering a remote setting far from the state’s major urban centers. With a population of only about 2,500 residents, the county is known for its rural character, open landscapes, and close-knit communities.
St. Francis, the county seat, hosts a popular motorcycle rally each summer, attracting riders from across the region. The event adds a lively community tradition to this otherwise peaceful corner of northwestern Kansas.
The dramatic Arikaree Breaks feature deeply carved canyons, rugged formations, and scenic landscapes that stand out from the surrounding Kansas plains. Combined with its wide-open skies and welcoming small-town atmosphere, Cheyenne County offers a distinctive rural Kansas experience.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Cheyenne County |
| County Seat | St. Francis |
| Etymology | Named after the Cheyenne Native American tribe |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | St. Francis, Bird City, Cheyenne Wells, and several smaller communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 36, Kansas Highway 27, Kansas Highway 385 |
| FIPS Code | 20-023 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,185 square miles (land: 1,178 sq mi, water: 7 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Dundy County, Nebraska (North), Rawlins County (East), Sherman County (South), Kit Carson County, Colorado (Southwest), Yuma County, Colorado (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Kansas |
| Coordinates | 39.83°N, 101.57°W |
| Major Landmarks | The Cheyenne County Historical Museum, the Old Cheyenne County Courthouse |
| Population | 2,600 |
