Waushara County is located in central Wisconsin, known for its rolling hills, numerous lakes, and a mix of agricultural and recreational areas. Established in 1851, Waushara County covers approximately 637 square miles and is named after the Menominee word for “good land.” With a population of around 24,000 residents, Waushara County is largely rural, with a small-town feel and a strong focus on agriculture, tourism, and outdoor activities. The county offers a peaceful lifestyle, with lakes, forests, and parks attracting visitors for fishing, boating, camping, and hiking.
Waushara County is home to two incorporated cities, Wautoma and Berlin (partially), and several small towns and villages, including Wild Rose, Plainfield, and Redgranite. These communities offer a blend of historical significance and recreational opportunities, making Waushara County a popular destination for both residents and tourists looking for a quiet, scenic getaway.
Cities and Towns in Waushara County
Wautoma
Overview of Geography and History
Wautoma is the county seat of Waushara County and one of its most populous cities. Located in the central part of the county, Wautoma was established in the 1850s and quickly became a center for trade and government. Known for its charming downtown and natural surroundings, the city developed around the White River and the region’s rich agricultural lands. Wautoma has a strong historical connection to agriculture, particularly dairy farming, which remains a key part of the local economy. Over time, Wautoma has also grown as a recreational hub, thanks to the surrounding lakes and forests that draw visitors for fishing, camping, and hiking.
Today, Wautoma retains its small-town charm while serving as the administrative and commercial center of Waushara County. Its downtown area is home to local shops, restaurants, and government offices, and the city hosts several community events throughout the year, including the popular Waushara County Fair.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Heart of Waushara County”
- Area: 2.72 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,200
- Elevation: 873 feet
- Time zone: Central Time (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54982
- Area code: 920
Transportation
Wautoma is located along Wisconsin Highway 21, which provides access to neighboring communities and connects to major highways like Interstate 39, making it easy to reach larger cities like Madison and Stevens Point. Additionally, Wisconsin Highway 22 runs through the town, connecting it to towns in the north and south. Wautoma does not have its own airport, but nearby Waupaca Municipal Airport provides general aviation services, while commercial flights are available at Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee, about an hour’s drive away.
Famous Landmarks
- Waushara County Courthouse: A historic building in downtown Wautoma, serving as the center of county government.
- Mt. Morris Hills Park: A nearby park offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the region.
Wild Rose
Overview of Geography and History
Wild Rose is a small village located in the northern part of Waushara County. Founded in the late 1800s, the village grew around the region’s natural beauty, with its proximity to lakes and rivers making it a popular spot for fishing and tourism. Wild Rose became known as a summer destination, attracting visitors to its lakeside resorts and cottages. Agriculture, particularly dairy farming, has also been a central part of the local economy.
Despite its small size, Wild Rose offers a close-knit community with a focus on outdoor recreation. The village has several parks and nature areas, and its location near Pine River and numerous lakes makes it an ideal base for boating, fishing, and camping. Wild Rose’s charming downtown area includes local shops, restaurants, and a historical museum.
City Facts
- Nickname: “The Gateway to Nature”
- Area: 0.97 square miles
- Population: Approximately 725
- Elevation: 909 feet
- Time zone: Central Time (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54984
- Area code: 920
Transportation
Wild Rose is located along Wisconsin Highway 22, which provides access to Wautoma to the south and Waupaca to the north. The village is also near Wisconsin Highway 73, which connects it to other communities in the region. Although there is no commercial airport in Wild Rose, the Waupaca Municipal Airport, about 20 miles away, offers general aviation services, while commercial flights are available from Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee or Appleton International Airport.
Famous Landmarks
- Wild Rose Historical Society Museum: A local museum preserving the history of the village and its development.
- Wild Rose Millpond Park: A scenic park featuring a dam, picnic areas, and access to fishing.
Plainfield
Overview of Geography and History
Plainfield is a village located in the southwestern part of Waushara County, known for its rural setting and agricultural roots. The village was settled in the mid-19th century and developed as a farming community. Plainfield gained some notoriety in the 1950s due to its association with the infamous Ed Gein case, but today, it is a quiet village with a focus on farming, particularly potatoes and corn, and a close-knit community atmosphere.
In addition to agriculture, Plainfield serves as a gateway to outdoor recreational activities in the nearby sand plains and forests. The village has a small downtown area with local businesses and offers access to several nearby lakes and parks, making it a great place for residents and visitors who enjoy fishing, boating, and camping.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Potato Capital”
- Area: 1.04 square miles
- Population: Approximately 860
- Elevation: 1,066 feet
- Time zone: Central Time (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54966
- Area code: 715
Transportation
Plainfield is located along U.S. Highway 73, which connects it to neighboring communities and major highways like Interstate 39. The village’s location along the highway makes it easily accessible by car, and it is within a short drive of larger towns like Stevens Point. For air travel, residents typically use Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee, about 45 minutes away, or regional airports in Appleton and Madison.
Famous Landmarks
- Plainfield Cemetery: A local cemetery that attracts visitors due to its association with historical events.
- Hancock Plainfield Dunes State Natural Area: A nearby nature reserve with unique sand dunes and hiking opportunities.
Redgranite
Overview of Geography and History
Redgranite is a village located in the eastern part of Waushara County, named after the red granite quarries that were a major industry in the area during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The village was established in 1904 and quickly grew as a center for granite mining, which played a crucial role in the development of the local economy. Although the quarries have since closed, the legacy of the red granite industry is still visible in the village’s architecture and local landmarks.
Today, Redgranite is a quiet village with a focus on tourism, particularly outdoor recreation. The village is home to Redgranite Quarry, which has become a popular spot for swimming and scuba diving. Redgranite also hosts several local events, including an annual Labor Day celebration, and offers a peaceful setting for residents and visitors alike.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Granite City”
- Area: 2.34 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,100
- Elevation: 869 feet
- Time zone: Central Time (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54970
- Area code: 920
Transportation
Redgranite is located along Wisconsin Highway 21, which runs through the village and connects it to other communities in Waushara County and beyond. The village is also near Wisconsin Highway 73, providing access to larger highways and nearby towns. Redgranite does not have a local airport, but the Wautoma Municipal Airport offers general aviation services, while commercial flights are available at Central Wisconsin Airport or Appleton International Airport.
Famous Landmarks
- Redgranite Quarry: A former granite quarry that has become a popular swimming and diving site.
- Redgranite Civic Park: A local park offering playgrounds, picnic areas, and space for community events.
Hancock
Overview of Geography and History
Hancock is a small village located in the western part of Waushara County, known for its rich agricultural history and rural charm. Founded in the mid-1800s, Hancock developed as a farming community, with potatoes and cranberries being among the primary crops. Over the years, the village has maintained its agricultural roots, with a focus on both farming and outdoor recreation.
Hancock offers a peaceful, small-town lifestyle, with easy access to nearby parks, lakes, and forests. The village is surrounded by natural beauty, and its location near the Central Sands region makes it an ideal place for those who enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, and hiking. Hancock’s small downtown area includes local shops, restaurants, and community events that bring residents together.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: 0.96 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400
- Elevation: 1,083 feet
- Time zone: Central Time (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54943
- Area code: 715
Transportation
Hancock is located along U.S. Highway 51 and near Interstate 39, making it easily accessible by road from larger cities like Madison and Stevens Point. The village’s location along major highways makes it convenient for travel to other parts of Wisconsin. While Hancock does not have a commercial airport, residents can use Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee for regional flights. The village is also close to recreational areas like the Central Sands Plains and local lakes, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Famous Landmarks
- Hancock Agricultural Research Station: A research facility focusing on agriculture and sustainability.
- John E. Runnels Memorial Park: A local park with playgrounds, sports facilities, and picnic areas.