Washburn County
countyWashburn County is located in the heart of Northwest Wisconsin, offering a blend of natural beauty and strong community values. The county is known as a high-recreation and retirement destination, with nearly 1,000 lakes and hundreds of miles of trails. As of 2020, the population was 16,623, and estimated to be 16,982 in 2024. The county's economy benefits from its location and access to a skilled workforce. Key industries include tourism, recreation, and services. Washburn County is home to vibrant small towns like Spooner and Shell Lake, the latter serving as the county seat. Washburn County distinguishes itself with its rich history and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. The Washburn County Forest, comprising 148,000 acres, provides ample space for hunting, fishing, ATVing, snowmobiling, and other activities. The county's numerous lakes and trails contribute to a high quality of life for residents and attract visitors year-round.
Washburn County, Wisconsin
- Classification
- County
- Country
- United States
- County
- Washburn County
- Region
- Northwest Wisconsin
- Total Area
- 853 sq mi
- Land Area
- 797 sq mi
- Water Area
- 56 sq mi
- Latitude
- 45.9
- Longitude
- -91.79
- Notable Features
- Washburn County Forest · Nearly 1,000 lakes · Namekagon River
- Neighboring Areas
- Burnett County · Sawyer County · Barron County · Bayfield County
- Population (2020)
- 16,623
- Est. Population (2024)
- 16,982
- Median Age
- 52.4
- Median Income
- $61,270
- Poverty Rate
- 11.55%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- The racial makeup of the county is 92.95% White, 1.01% Native American, 0.27% Black or African American, 0.46% Asian, 0.02% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, and 4.59% Two or more races.
- Government Type
- County government
- Governing Body
- County Board
- Unemployment Rate
- 4.1%
- Employment Sectors
- Tourism · Recreation · Services
- School Districts
- Birchwood School District · Hayward Community School District · Northwood School District · Rice Lake Area School District · Shell Lake School District · Spooner Area School District
- Transportation
- U.S. Highway 53 · U.S. Highway 63 · State Highway 48 · State Highway 70 · State Highway 77 · Shell Lake Municipal Airport
- Major Facilities
- Washburn County Courthouse · Northern Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Washburn County Forest · Namekagon River · Nearly 1,000 lakes
- Founded
- 1883
- Named After
- Governor Cadwallader C. Washburn
- Historical Significance
- Washburn County's history is closely tied to the logging industry and the development of railroads in northern Wisconsin.