Elk County, Kansas
Elk County nestles in the Flint Hills of southeast Kansas and is home to only about 2,500 residents. With a strong ranching tradition and wide-open countryside, the county has a distinctly rural character where cattle are a familiar part of the landscape.
Elk Falls is known as the “World’s Largest Living Ghost Town” and hosts a quirky Outhouse Tour each November. With a population of only around 200, this tiny community offers visitors a unique glimpse into the county’s small-town personality and local traditions.
Howard, the county seat, hosts an annual rodeo each July, while the Elk River Hiking Trail provides opportunities to explore the area’s natural scenery. Although Elk County is off the beaten path, its peaceful landscapes, outdoor recreation, and rural Kansas atmosphere make it an appealing destination for those looking to experience life away from the city.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Elk County |
| County Seat | Howard |
| Etymology | Named after Elk River, which was named for the elk that once roamed the area |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Howard, Elk Falls, Longton, and several smaller communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 54, U.S. Highway 400 |
| FIPS Code | 20-049 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,232 square miles (land: 1,230 sq mi, water: 2 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Greenwood County (North), Wilson County (East), Montgomery County (Southeast), Chautauqua County (South), Cowley County (Southwest), Butler County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Kansas |
| Coordinates | 37.34°N, 96.25°W |
| Major Landmarks | Elk County Historical Museum, the Howard City Lake |
| Population | 2,700 |
