North Dakota County Map

North Dakota County Maps

North Dakota may not be the largest state, but it has a surprising number of counties within its borders. It has 53 counties, to be exact. While not as densely packed as some other states, North Dakota’s counties are spread across a landscape that ranges from the Great Plains in the east to the rugged Badlands in the west.

North Dakota Counties

Cass County stands out as the most populous. The reason mainly is because it’s home to Fargo, North Dakota’s largest city. On the other end of the spectrum, Slope County is the least populous. With fewer than 800 residents, it’s where the prairie still feels endless.

In terms of size, McKenzie County is the largest, covering over 2,700 square miles. Located in the heart of the Bakken oil fields, it has experienced significant growth, though much of its land remains sparsely populated. The smallest county, Eddy County, spans just over 600 square miles. Nestled in the central part of the state, Eddy County is known for its agricultural output.

North Dakota’s counties often have names that reflect the state’s early history. For instance, Burleigh County is named after Walter A. Burleigh, a politician and early settler of the state. Pembina County is the oldest in the state. It was established in 1867, long before North Dakota achieved statehood in 1889.