Portage County, Wisconsin
Portage County sits near the center of Wisconsin, surrounded by a mix of farmland, forests, and rivers. Stevens Point is the largest city and is home to a University of Wisconsin campus. The county also has a growing appreciation for craft beer, with several local breweries adding to the area’s character.
The landscape blends open farm fields with wooded areas, while the region’s past is closely connected to the lumber industry. Traces of that history can still be seen today. Outdoor activities are a big attraction, with visitors coming for hunting, fishing, hiking, and exploring the countryside.
The county gets its name from the French word “portage,” meaning a place where boats or goods are carried overland. It refers to the historic route connecting the Fox and Wisconsin Rivers. The Wisconsin River runs through the county, providing excellent spots for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the water.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Portage County |
| County Seat | Stevens Point |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Stevens Point, Plover, Whiting, Amherst, Rosholt |
| Interstates and Highways | I-39, US-10, WI-54, WI-66 |
| Etymology | Named after the portage between the Fox and Wisconsin Rivers |
| FIPS Code | 55-097 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 823 sq mi (Land: 801 sq mi; Water: 22 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Coordinates | 44.4741° N, 89.5359° W |
| Major Landmarks | Stevens Point Sculpture Park, Schmeeckle Reserve, Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Marathon County (North), Shawano County (Northeast), Waupaca County (East), Waushara County (Southeast), Adams County (Southwest), Wood County (West) |
| Population | Approximately 71,000 |
