Hartley County, Texas
Hartley County is located in the northern Texas Panhandle, right along the New Mexico border. This is true cattle country, with wide-open plains stretching across the landscape. With a population of just over 6,000, the county has a quiet, close-knit atmosphere.
Channing serves as the county seat, while ranching and farming remain central to the local economy. Part of the legendary XIT Ranch, once considered the largest ranch in the world, was located in Hartley County, leaving a lasting mark on the area’s history and ranching heritage.
The county is known for its friendly communities and strong neighborly spirit, where people are often willing to lend a helping hand. Rita Blanca National Grasslands offers visitors a chance to experience the region’s natural beauty and wide-open landscapes. Hartley County may be quiet and remote, but for those who appreciate rural life and the freedom of the open plains, it is a special place to call home.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Hartley County |
| County Seat | Channing |
| Population | Approximately 6,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Channing, Hartley |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 87, U.S. Highway 385 |
| FIPS Code | 48-205 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,463 square miles (1,462 sq mi land, 1 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Dallam County (North), Moore County (East), Oldham County (South), Quay County, New Mexico (Southwest), Union County, New Mexico (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Texas |
| Coordinates | 35°50’N, 102°35’W |
| Etymology | Named after Oliver Cromwell Hartley, a lawyer and Texas state representative |
| Major Landmarks | XIT Ranch, Rita Blanca National Grasslands, Hartley County Courthouse |
