Madera County, California
Madera County stretches from California’s Central Valley into the Sierra Nevada, offering a mix of fertile farmland and rugged mountain landscapes. Around 100,000 people live in the county, with Madera serving as the county seat and largest community.
Agriculture is a major part of life in the valley, with extensive almond orchards and vineyards covering the landscape. Head east into the mountains, and the scenery changes dramatically, with access to the southern Yosemite region adding to the county’s appeal.
Bass Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and summer recreation, while Sierra National Forest provides miles of opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the mountains. With productive farmland in the west and expansive wilderness in the east, Madera County offers a balance between agriculture and outdoor adventure.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Madera County |
| County Seat | Madera |
| Etymology | Named after the Spanish word “madera,” meaning “wood,” due to the area’s historical timber industry |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Madera, Chowchilla, Oakhurst, Coarsegold, Bass Lake, and others |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 99, State Route 41, State Route 145 |
| FIPS Code | 06-039 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 2,146 square miles (Land: 2,142 sq mi, Water: 4 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Merced County (Northwest), Mariposa County (North), Tuolumne County (Northeast), Mono County (Northeast), Fresno County (Southwest) |
| Time Zone | Pacific Standard Time (PST) |
| State | California |
| Population | Approximately 100,000 |
| Coordinates | 37.2399° N, 120.4034° W |
| Major Landmarks | Yosemite National Park (partly in the county), Bass Lake, Sierra National Forest, Madera County Courthouse |
PHYSICAL MAP
Madera County Topographic Map
This topographic map highlights Madera County’s gradual transition from the Central Valley floor to the higher elevations of the Sierra Nevada. The detailed contours reveal the shift from flat agricultural land to forested slopes and alpine mountain terrain.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Madera County Satellite Map
This satellite map shows the dramatic landscape transition from valley agriculture to mountain wilderness. The San Joaquin River curves along part of the southern boundary, creating a prominent geographic feature visible from above.
OUTLINE MAP
Madera County Blank Map
This blank map outlines Madera County’s elongated shape from the Central Valley into the Sierra Nevada. The southern boundary follows part of the San Joaquin River, emphasizing the county’s varied geography.
California County Maps
California County Map
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