Price County, located in northern Wisconsin, is known for its rich forests, lakes, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Established in 1879 and named after William T. Price, a former U.S. Representative, the county has a history deeply rooted in the timber and paper industries. The abundance of natural resources, particularly lumber, helped drive early development, and today, Price County remains a hub for outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, and snowmobiling.
Price County covers approximately 1,278 square miles and has a population of around 14,000. The county seat is Phillips, with other key communities including Park Falls and Prentice. Despite its small population, the county’s vast wilderness areas make it a popular destination for visitors seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Phillips
Geography and History
Phillips is the county seat of Price County, situated on the shores of Elk Lake in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods. The city was founded in 1876 as a logging and railroad town, and its name honors Elijah B. Phillips, a land commissioner for the Wisconsin Central Railroad. The city grew rapidly during the late 19th century, fueled by the timber industry, and became the administrative center of Price County when it was officially established in 1879. A major fire in 1894 destroyed much of the city, but Phillips was rebuilt and continues to thrive.
Today, Phillips remains a picturesque city known for its outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and snowmobiling. The nearby Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest provides a vast wilderness for exploration, while the city’s downtown area retains its historic charm.
City Facts
- Nickname: “The Heart of the Northwoods”
- Area: 3.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,400
- Elevation: 1,473 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54555
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Phillips is accessible via U.S. Highway 13, which runs north-south through the county and connects the city to larger towns like Medford to the south and Park Falls to the north. Wisconsin State Highway 111 also runs through the city, providing local connections. Phillips Municipal Airport serves general aviation needs, while the nearest commercial airport is Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport, located about 60 miles to the east. The city’s rural setting means most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation.
Famous Landmarks
- Elk Lake Park: A popular park offering swimming, fishing, and picnic areas along Elk Lake
- Price County Courthouse: A historic courthouse in the center of downtown Phillips
- Fred Smith’s Wisconsin Concrete Park: A unique outdoor sculpture garden featuring folk art made from concrete
Park Falls
Geography and History
Park Falls, located along the Flambeau River, is one of the larger cities in Price County. The city was founded in the late 19th century as a logging and paper mill town, taking advantage of the nearby river for transportation and power. Originally called “Muskellunge Falls,” it was renamed Park Falls in 1885. Over the years, Park Falls became a hub for the timber and paper industries, with the river and the surrounding forests playing central roles in the local economy.
Today, Park Falls is known for its rich outdoor activities, including fishing, canoeing, and snowmobiling. The Flambeau River State Forest and nearby lakes provide opportunities for recreation, while the city itself offers small-town charm with modern amenities.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Flambeau River City”
- Area: 3.79 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,400
- Elevation: 1,500 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54552
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Park Falls is served by U.S. Highway 13, which connects the city to other northern Wisconsin communities. Wisconsin State Highway 182 also passes through Park Falls, offering access to the surrounding rural areas and forest lands. The Park Falls Municipal Airport supports general aviation, while the closest commercial flights are available at Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, and the city is well-connected by local and regional roads.
Famous Landmarks
- Flambeau River: A scenic river offering opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking
- Flambeau Paper Mill: A historic site tied to the city’s industrial past
- Park Falls Historical Society Museum: Featuring exhibits on the history of the logging and paper industries in the area
Prentice
Geography and History
Prentice is a small village located in the southeastern part of Price County, surrounded by forests and lakes. The village was established in 1878 as a result of the expanding logging and railroad industries, and it was named after Henry Prentice, a prominent railroad official. Prentice grew as a hub for the logging industry, with its economy driven by the timber resources of the surrounding area.
Today, Prentice is a quiet village that retains its logging heritage while offering a peaceful rural lifestyle. The village is a gateway to outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking, making it an attractive destination for those looking to enjoy Wisconsin’s natural beauty.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Village in the Pines”
- Area: 1.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 650
- Elevation: 1,475 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54556
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Prentice is located along Wisconsin State Highway 8, which runs east to west across northern Wisconsin and connects the village to Rhinelander and Ladysmith. The village is also served by Wisconsin State Highway 13, which provides access to nearby towns like Phillips and Medford. The nearest airport for general aviation is the Prentice Municipal Airport, while the closest commercial airport is Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport. With its rural setting, Prentice is primarily accessible by car, and local roads connect the village to surrounding areas.
Famous Landmarks
- Prentice Veterans Memorial Park: A community park honoring local veterans with memorials and picnic areas
- Prentice Pines Park: A scenic park offering walking trails through pine forests
- Railroad Depot Museum: Preserving the history of the village’s early days as a railroad hub
Catawba
Geography and History
Catawba is a small village located in the eastern part of Price County. Founded in the late 19th century, the village developed as a railroad stop along the Soo Line, which helped transport timber and goods to larger markets. Catawba, like much of the region, was originally a logging community, with the surrounding forests providing ample resources for the local economy.
Today, Catawba remains a quiet, rural village with a population that enjoys the natural beauty of the area. The village is surrounded by forests, lakes, and streams, offering outdoor recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Timber Town”
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 110
- Elevation: 1,470 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54515
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Catawba is located along Wisconsin State Highway 111, providing access to the larger town of Phillips and surrounding communities. The village is also near Wisconsin State Highway 13, a major route through northern Wisconsin. The closest commercial airport is Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport, about 70 miles to the east. With limited public transportation options, most residents rely on cars for travel, and the village’s road network connects it to nearby rural areas.
Famous Landmarks
- Catawba Log Museum: A small museum dedicated to the village’s logging history
- North Fork Flambeau River: A nearby river offering fishing and kayaking opportunities
- Catawba Cemetery: A historic cemetery dating back to the village’s early settlers
Ogema
Geography and History
Ogema is a village located in the southern part of Price County, near the Chequamegon National Forest. Founded in the 1880s as a logging town, Ogema grew with the expansion of the railroad and the timber industry. The village’s name comes from a Native American word meaning “chief” or “leader,” reflecting the area’s indigenous heritage.
Today, Ogema is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. The nearby Timm’s Hill, the highest point in Wisconsin, attracts visitors for its scenic views and hiking trails. The village itself is a peaceful community that serves as a gateway to the surrounding forests and lakes.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Village by the Hill”
- Area: 2.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300
- Elevation: 1,550 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54459
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Ogema is located along Wisconsin State Highway 86, which runs through the village and provides access to nearby towns like Rib Lake and Tomahawk. The village is also near Wisconsin State Highway 13, which connects Ogema to Phillips and other parts of northern Wisconsin. The nearest commercial airport is Central Wisconsin Airport, located about 70 miles to the south. Most transportation is by car, with local roads connecting the village to the surrounding natural areas.
Famous Landmarks
- Timm’s Hill County Park: Home to Wisconsin’s highest point, offering hiking, picnicking, and scenic views
- Chequamegon National Forest: A nearby forest with trails for hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing
- Old School Museum: A museum preserving the history of Ogema’s early days as a logging town