Columbia County, Wisconsin
Wisconsin Dells may be the first thing that comes to mind when you hear about Columbia County, but there’s much more here than water parks. Located just north of Madison, the county has become a popular place for people who want easy access to the city while still enjoying a quieter lifestyle.
Columbia County blends rural communities with growing suburban areas. The Wisconsin River winds through the county, creating beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Portage, the county seat, has a long history connected to the region’s early fur trade.
Outdoor recreation is a big part of life here, from boating and hiking to simply enjoying the changing seasons. Fall is especially beautiful, with colorful leaves drawing visitors from miles around. Friendly communities and a relaxed atmosphere give Columbia County that welcoming Wisconsin feel.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Columbia County |
| County Seat | Portage |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Portage, Columbus, Lodi, Poynette, Rio |
| Interstates and Highways | I-39, I-90, I-94, US-51, US-151 |
| Etymology | Named after Christopher Columbus, the navigator and explorer |
| FIPS Code | 55-021 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 796 sq mi (Land: 766 sq mi; Water: 30 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Coordinates | 43.4696° N, 89.3227° W |
| Major Landmarks | Wisconsin Dells, Devil’s Lake State Park, Portage Canal |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Marquette County (North), Green Lake County (Northeast), Dodge County (East), Dane County (South), Sauk County (West), Juneau County (Northwest), Adams County (Northwest) |
| Population | Approximately 58,000 |
