Polk County, located in northwestern Wisconsin, is known for its lush forests, numerous lakes, and rolling farmland. Established in 1853, the county was named after James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States. Polk County has a rich history rooted in logging, agriculture, and mining, and today, it remains an area where nature and community life intersect. With over 437 lakes, the county is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other water-based recreational activities.
Polk County covers an area of about 956 square miles and has a population of approximately 45,000. The county seat is Balsam Lake, and other key communities include Amery, St. Croix Falls, and Osceola. The county’s small towns are known for their welcoming atmospheres, historical significance, and access to outdoor recreation.
Balsam Lake
Geography and History
Balsam Lake is the county seat of Polk County and is located along the shores of its namesake lake. Established in the mid-19th century, the town initially grew as a hub for logging and milling, with the nearby lake serving as a key transportation route for timber. Balsam Lake also became a popular vacation destination in the 20th century due to its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Over the years, the town has maintained its rural charm and remains a destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat by the water.
Today, Balsam Lake is known for its strong sense of community, historical sites, and outdoor activities. The lake is central to life in the town, offering boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities. The downtown area features local shops, restaurants, and parks, making it a pleasant destination for both residents and visitors.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Heart of Polk County”
- Area: 2.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000
- Elevation: 1,194 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54810
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Balsam Lake is served by Wisconsin State Highway 46, which connects the town to nearby communities such as Amery and St. Croix Falls. The nearest major highway is U.S. Highway 8, located just a few miles to the north, providing access to other parts of northwestern Wisconsin. While there is no commercial airport in Balsam Lake, the closest is Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, about 70 miles away. Most transportation is done by car, with the town’s roads providing easy access to surrounding rural areas and lakes.
Famous Landmarks
- Balsam Lake: A 2,054-acre lake offering boating, fishing, and other recreational activities
- Polk County Government Center: The administrative center of the county, located in downtown Balsam Lake
- Pine Park: A community park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and lake access
Amery
Geography and History
Amery, located in eastern Polk County along the Apple River, was founded in the late 19th century as a lumber town. The river provided power for sawmills and helped the town grow as a center for the timber industry. As logging declined, Amery transitioned into a more agricultural community and later became known for its outdoor recreational opportunities. The town’s rich natural surroundings make it a popular destination for fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Today, Amery is a vibrant community with a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. The downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and parks, while the nearby river and lakes draw visitors throughout the year. The town also hosts annual festivals that celebrate local traditions and community spirit.
City Facts
- Nickname: “City of Lakes”
- Area: 3.68 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,900
- Elevation: 1,050 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54001
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Amery is accessible via Wisconsin State Highway 46, which runs through the town and connects it to Balsam Lake and other neighboring communities. U.S. Highway 8 is nearby, offering a direct route to larger cities in the region. The closest commercial airport is Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, located about 65 miles to the southwest. Public transportation is limited, but the town is easily navigable by car, with local roads providing access to the surrounding lakes and countryside.
Famous Landmarks
- Apple River: A scenic river known for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing
- North Park: A large park offering picnic areas, walking trails, and lake access
- Amery Historical Museum: A museum showcasing the history of Amery and the surrounding area
St. Croix Falls
Geography and History
St. Croix Falls is located on the western edge of Polk County, along the St. Croix River, which forms the border between Wisconsin and Minnesota. The town was established in the mid-19th century as a key location for logging and river transportation. The St. Croix River’s powerful rapids were harnessed to power sawmills, and the town quickly grew as a lumbering center. St. Croix Falls is now a tourist destination, known for its proximity to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, a federally protected area that offers beautiful landscapes and outdoor recreation.
Today, St. Croix Falls is a charming small town that attracts visitors with its natural beauty, historic downtown, and access to the river. The town also serves as a gateway to Interstate Park, Wisconsin’s oldest state park, located just outside the city.
City Facts
- Nickname: “City of Trails”
- Area: 4.34 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,100
- Elevation: 876 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54024
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
St. Croix Falls is located along U.S. Highway 8, which provides a direct route to Minneapolis-St. Paul to the west and towns like Turtle Lake and Rice Lake to the east. Wisconsin State Highway 35 also runs through the town, following the St. Croix River and offering scenic drives along the riverway. The nearest commercial airport is Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, about 55 miles away. The town’s local roads and proximity to major highways make it easy to travel by car.
Famous Landmarks
- Interstate Park: Wisconsin’s oldest state park, known for its hiking trails and views of the St. Croix River
- St. Croix National Scenic Riverway: A protected riverway offering canoeing, fishing, and wildlife observation
- Folsom House Museum: A historic home from the 19th century, now a museum showcasing the area’s logging history
Osceola
Geography and History
Osceola, situated along the St. Croix River in western Polk County, is a historic village known for its scenic beauty and small-town charm. The village was founded in the mid-19th century and quickly became an important center for river transportation and milling. The St. Croix River played a crucial role in the town’s early development, with steamboats and sawmills shaping the local economy. Today, Osceola is a popular destination for tourists, drawn by the village’s historic downtown, waterfalls, and access to the St. Croix River.
Osceola’s charming streets are lined with preserved historic buildings, and the village offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities. The nearby Osceola Creek and Cascade Falls are popular attractions, and the village serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures in the St. Croix Valley.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Village by the River”
- Area: 4.39 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,600
- Elevation: 920 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54020
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Osceola is located along Wisconsin State Highway 35, which runs along the St. Croix River and connects the village to St. Croix Falls and other river communities. U.S. Highway 8 is nearby, providing access to larger cities in the region. The closest commercial airport is Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, located about 50 miles to the southwest. The village is easily navigable by car, and local roads offer scenic routes through the surrounding countryside.
Famous Landmarks
- Cascade Falls: A picturesque waterfall located in downtown Osceola
- Osceola and St. Croix Valley Railway: A historic railway offering scenic train rides along the St. Croix River
- Osceola Landing: A popular spot for launching canoes and kayaks on the St. Croix River
Clear Lake
Geography and History
Clear Lake is a small village in eastern Polk County, known for its tranquil setting and rich agricultural heritage. The village was established in the mid-19th century and was named after the nearby Clear Lake, a pristine body of water that has long been a focal point for the community. Early settlers engaged in farming and logging, and the village grew as a local agricultural hub. Today, Clear Lake remains a rural community known for its peaceful atmosphere and access to outdoor activities.
Clear Lake offers a quiet, rural lifestyle with access to nearby lakes, forests, and recreational areas. The village hosts several local events throughout the year, celebrating its farming traditions and community spirit.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to Clear Lake”
- Area: 1.71 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000
- Elevation: 1,180 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54005
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Clear Lake is accessible via U.S. Highway 63, which runs through the village and connects it to larger towns like Amery and Baldwin. Wisconsin State Highway 46 also serves the village, offering connections to nearby communities. The nearest commercial airport is Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, about 70 miles to the southwest. Most transportation in the village is by car, and local roads provide access to the surrounding rural areas and lakes.
Famous Landmarks
- Clear Lake: A popular lake for fishing, boating, and swimming
- Clear Lake Historical Museum: A museum showcasing the history of the village and its agricultural heritage
- Memory Park: A community park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths