Missouri is a state located in the midwestern region of the United States. It has a diverse population of over six million people, and it is known for its agriculture, forests, and limestone formations. One interesting aspect of the state is its division into counties, each with its unique geography, economy, and culture. To understand the state better, one must explore its county map.
Missouri County Map
The Missouri county map shows the state’s 114 counties, ranging in size from just 1.8 square miles (Clay County) to 1,179 square miles (Texas County). The counties are grouped into nine regions: Northwest, Northeast, West Central, Central, East Central, Southwest, South Central, Southeast, and St. Louis Metro. Each region has its unique characteristics and landmarks, which make it a must-visit for tourists and researchers alike.
Northwest Region
The Northwest region comprises 18 counties, including Andrew, Atchison, Buchanan, Caldwell, Clinton, Daviess, DeKalb, Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Holt, Livingston, Mercer, Nodaway, Platte, Putnam, Sullivan, and Worth. This region is known for its rolling terrain, with forests and farms covering most of the landscape. The Missouri River runs through the region, providing opportunities for water sports and fishing.
Northeast Region
The Northeast region comprises 17 counties, including Adair, Clark, Knox, Lewis, Linn, Macon, Marion, Monroe, Pike, Ralls, Randolph, Schuyler, Scotland, Shelby, St. Charles, St. Louis, and Warren. This region is known for its rich history and architecture, with many significant buildings dating back to the 1800s. The region is also home to the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, where visitors can learn about the author’s life and works.
West Central Region
The West Central region comprises 15 counties, including Benton, Camden, Carroll, Cedar, Chariton, Cooper, Henry, Hickory, Johnson, Lafayette, Pettis, Saline, St. Clair, Vernon, and Morgan. This region is known for its lakes and rivers, which provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. One of the most famous lakes in the region is the Lake of the Ozarks, a 54,000-acre lake with over 1,100 miles of shoreline.
Central Region
The Central region comprises 13 counties, including Boone, Callaway, Cole, Cooper, Gasconade, Howard, Miller, Moniteau, Morgan, Osage, and Randolph. This region is known for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills, forests, and prairies covering most of the landscape. The region is also home to several state parks, including Katy Trail State Park, which features a 240-mile trail for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
East Central Region
The East Central region comprises 10 counties, including Crawford, Franklin, Gasconade, Jefferson, Lincoln, Montgomery, St. Charles, St. Louis, Warren, and Washington. This region is known for its rich history, with many landmarks and museums dedicated to the state’s early settlers and pioneers. The region is also home to several wineries and vineyards, which produce some of the best wines in the state.
Southwest Region
The Southwest region comprises 17 counties, including Barry, Christian, Dade, Dallas, Greene, Howell, Jasper, Lawrence, McDonald, Newton, Oregon, Ozark, Polk, Stone, Taney, Texas, and Webster. This region is known for its outdoor recreation, with several lakes, rivers, and parks offering opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping.The region is also home to Branson, a popular tourist destination known for its live entertainment and attractions.
South Central Region
The South Central region comprises 16 counties, including Dent, Douglas, Laclede, Maries, Phelps, Pulaski, Shannon, Texas, and Wright. This region is known for its limestone formations, which make it an ideal destination for spelunking and cave exploration. The region is also home to several state parks, including Ha Ha Tonka State Park and Meramec State Park.
Southeast Region
The Southeast region comprises 16 counties, including Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Carter, Dunklin, Iron, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, St. Francois, and Stoddard. This region is known for its diverse landscapes, including swamplands, forests, and rolling hills. The region is also home to several historic sites, including the Trail of Tears State Park, which commemorates the forced relocation of Native Americans during the 19th century.
St. Louis Metro Region
The St. Louis Metro region comprises two counties, including the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County. This region is the most populous in the state and is known for its vibrant culture, architecture, and landmarks. The region is home to several world-famous attractions, including the Gateway Arch, the St. Louis Zoo, and the Missouri Botanical Garden.
In conclusion, Missouri’s 114 counties are unique in their geography, economy, and culture, each providing a different perspective on the state’s history and development. By exploring the state’s county map and regions, one can gain a deeper understanding of what makes Missouri such an interesting and diverse place to live or visit.
