Baxter County, Arkansas is located in the north central part of the state and is bordered by Marion County to the north, Izard County to the east, Stone County to the south, and Boone County to the west. Baxter County is primarily made up of rolling hills and valleys with elevations ranging from 500-1,000 feet. The county covers an area of 821 square miles and has a population of 41,513 people as of 2019.
The White River runs through Baxter County along its western border and serves as a popular recreational spot for fishing and boating. The county also has several lakes including Bull Shoals Lake which is one of the largest man-made lakes in the country. These waterways provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming, camping, kayaking and more.
The landscape in Baxter County consists mostly of forested areas with oak, hickory and pine trees dominating much of the terrain. There are also several creeks running throughout the county which provide ample water sources for wildlife such as deer, turkey, quail and more.
Overall, Baxter County offers a unique combination of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities that make it a great place to live or visit.
Country Seat and Other Main Cities of Baxter County, Arkansas
The county seat of Baxter County, Arkansas is Mountain Home. Mountain Home is the largest city in the county with a population of 13,000 people as of 2019. It is located in the northern part of the county and serves as its administrative center. The city is home to many businesses and attractions including a historic downtown area, an 18-hole golf course, and two museums.
The most populous city in Baxter County is Lakeview with a population of 5,000 people as of 2019. Lakeview is located on the eastern side of the county near Bull Shoals Lake and offers plenty of outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, boating and more. This city also has several restaurants, shops and other amenities for visitors to enjoy.
Gassville is another notable city in Baxter County with a population of 2,500 people as of 2019. Gassville is located in the central part of the county along the White River and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation such as camping, hiking, fishing and more. This city also has several antique stores and other shops that make it a popular destination for tourists.
Overall, Baxter County contains several cities that each offer something unique for visitors to explore. See cities in Arkansas.
History of Baxter County, Arkansas
Baxter County was founded in 1873 and was named after the state’s first governor, Elisha Baxter. It is located in the northern part of Arkansas and is bordered by Marion County to the north, Stone County to the east, Searcy County to the south and Boone County to the west.
Prior to European settlement, Baxter County was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Osage and Cherokee. The first Europeans arrived in 1810 and began settling in what is now known as Mountain Home. The area quickly grew in population as settlers moved into Baxter County looking for new opportunities.
During the Civil War, Baxter County was a major site of Confederate activity. In 1862, Union forces captured Mountain Home and used it as a base of operations for their campaign against Confederate troops in Northern Arkansas. In 1864, Confederate troops retook control of Mountain Home and held it until 1865 when Union forces recaptured it once again.
In recent years Baxter County has become a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting and camping due to its proximity to Bull Shoals Lake which is one of the largest man-made lakes in the country. With its combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities Baxter County continues to be an attractive destination for visitors from all over.
Economy of Baxter County, Arkansas
Baxter County, Arkansas is located in the northern part of the state and is home to a diverse economy. The county has seen a steady growth in population over the past 20 years, resulting in an increase in economic activity. The county’s largest employers include Baxter Regional Medical Center, Arkansas State University Mountain Home, and Walmart Distribution Center.
Agriculture is also a major contributor to the economy of Baxter County. The county is home to several large farms that produce a variety of crops and livestock products. Livestock production such as poultry and beef are important sources of income for many farmers in Baxter County. Additionally, crops such as soybeans, cotton, corn and wheat are grown throughout the county.
Tourism is another major industry in Baxter County due to its abundance of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Bull Shoals Lake offers fishing, camping, boating, swimming and other activities for visitors to enjoy year-round. Additionally, the Ozark Mountains provide stunning views for visitors who wish to explore this area of Arkansas.
Overall, Baxter County offers a wide variety of economic opportunities for its citizens due to its diverse industries and strong workforce. With its combination of agriculture, industry and tourism it continues to be an attractive destination for both businesses and residents alike.