Winnebago County, Illinois
Winnebago County sits in northern Illinois, near the Wisconsin border. Rockford, the county seat and Illinois’s fifth-largest city, serves as a major hub for manufacturing, healthcare, and other industries across northern Illinois.
The Rock River runs through the heart of the county, including directly through Rockford. This scenic waterway offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and riverside recreation, with parks and green spaces located along its banks.
There’s plenty to explore in Winnebago County, especially around Rockford, where you’ll find museums, parks, restaurants, and a growing food scene. Step outside the city, however, and the landscape quickly shifts into the charm of small-town America.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Winnebago County |
| County Seat | Rockford |
| Population | Approximately 300,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Rockford, Loves Park, Machesney Park, Cherry Valley, and several smaller towns and unincorporated communities |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 90, U.S. Route 20, Illinois Route 2, Illinois Route 251 |
| FIPS Code | 17-201 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 519 square miles (land: 514 sq mi, water: 5 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Rock County, Wisconsin (North), Boone County (East), DeKalb County (Southeast), Ogle County (South), Carroll County (Southwest), Stephenson County (West), Green County, Wisconsin (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Illinois |
| Coordinates | 42.2711° N, 89.0934° W |
| Etymology | Named after the Winnebago Native American tribe |
| Major Landmarks | Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rock Cut State Park, and the Burpee Museum of Natural History |
PHYSICAL MAP
Winnebago 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
Winnebago County Satellite Map
Rockford’s urban area dominates the northeast, surrounded by parks and industrial zones. Beyond the city, farmland takes over much of the landscape. However, Chicago Rockford International Airport creates a notable break in the otherwise rural surroundings.
OUTLINE MAP
Winnebago County Blank Map
The county has a blocky shape without any major rivers forming its boundaries. Winnebago County is located in northern Illinois and shares a border with Wisconsin.
Illinois County Maps
Illinois County Map
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.