Okanogan County, Washington
Okanogan County is located in north-central Washington along the Canadian border and is the largest county in the state by land area. Its landscape shifts from dry sagebrush plains to thick mountain forests, creating a striking mix of environments. With more cattle than residents, ranching remains an important part of local life.
The Methow Valley is one of the county’s most popular destinations, especially during winter when cross-country skiing attracts outdoor enthusiasts. Summers are warm and well suited for exploring orchards, with apples and cherries among the area’s best-known crops.
Okanogan County is also celebrated for its exceptionally dark skies, making it an excellent place for stargazing. The Okanogan River winds through the region, supporting wildlife, farming, and surrounding communities. Local rodeos remain an important tradition, keeping the county’s Western spirit alive.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Okanogan County |
| County Seat | Okanogan |
| Population | Approximately 43,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Okanogan, Omak, Twisp, Winthrop, Brewster, Tonasket, Oroville |
| Interstates and Highways | US-97, WA-20, WA-155 |
| FIPS Code | 53-047 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 5,315 sq mi (Land: 5,268 sq mi; Water: 47 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Ferry County (East), Lincoln County (Southeast), Grant County (South), Douglas County (South), Chelan County (Southwest), Skagit County (West), Whatcom County (West) |
| Time Zone | Pacific Time Zone (PT) |
| State | Washington |
| Coordinates | 48.3619° N, 119.6501° W |
| Etymology | Named after a Salish word meaning “rendezvous” |
| Major Landmarks | North Cascades National Park, Lake Chelan, Methow Valley |
