McHenry County, Illinois

McHenry County sits in the far northeast corner of Illinois, right along the Wisconsin border. It’s part of the Chicago metro area, but it has a character all its own. You’ll find a mix of suburban neighborhoods and rural farmland throughout the county.

The Fox River cuts through the eastern part of the county, providing great spots for fishing and boating. Crystal Lake is a popular community with a small-town feel and big-city amenities. The county is changing fast, with many people moving in from Chicago in search of more space.

But you can still find plenty of open land and family farms. Places like Moraine Hills State Park offer opportunities to get outdoors and explore. People here take pride in their communities, and you’ll see it in the well-kept downtowns and farmers markets. It’s a place that’s holding onto its roots while embracing the future.

CategoryDetails
County NameMcHenry County
County SeatWoodstock
EtymologyNamed after Major William McHenry
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesCrystal Lake, Algonquin, McHenry, Woodstock, Huntley, and several unincorporated communities
Interstates and HighwaysInterstate 90, U.S. Highway 14, Illinois Route 31, Illinois Route 120
FIPS Code17-111
Total Area (Land and Water)611 square miles (land: 606 sq mi, water: 5 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Walworth County, Wisconsin (North), Kenosha County, Wisconsin (Northeast), Lake County (East), Cook County (Southeast), Kane County (South), DeKalb County (Southwest), Boone County (West)
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CT)
PopulationApproximately 320,000
StateIllinois
Coordinates42.2674° N, 88.4491° W
Major LandmarksThe Old Courthouse in Woodstock, Crystal Lake, and the Fox River. The county is also known for its extensive natural preserves

PHYSICAL MAP

McHenry County Topographic Map

While much of Winnebago County is relatively flat, the Rock River Valley creates rolling hills and bluffs, especially around Rockford. Small lakes and wetlands can also be found in the northern sections, while the majority of the county consists of open farmland.

SATELLITE IMAGERY

McHenry County Satellite Map

While much of Winnebago County is relatively flat, the Rock River Valley creates rolling hills and bluffs, especially around Rockford. Small lakes and wetlands can also be found in the northern sections, while the majority of the county consists of open farmland.

OUTLINE MAP

McHenry County Blank Map

While much of Winnebago County is relatively flat, the Rock River Valley creates rolling hills and bluffs, especially around Rockford. Small lakes and wetlands can also be found in the northern sections, while the majority of the county consists of open farmland.

Illinois County Map

Illinois map showing boundaries and locations.

Ready to explore Illinois? Discover counties full of surprises, from the energy of Chicago and Cook County to the quiet beauty of Shawnee National Forest. Explore rich history, farmland, natural scenery, and small-town charm with our Illinois county map. Find your next adventure and discover all that Illinois has to offer.

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