Lake County, South Dakota

Lake County, South Dakota
County
Location within the state of South Dakota Location within the state of South Dakota
Country	United States
State	South Dakota
Seat	Madison
Area
• Total	575 sq mi (1,490 km2)
• Land	563 sq mi (1,460 km2)
• Water	12 sq mi (30 km2)
Population  (2020)
• Total	12,846
• Density	22/sq mi (8.6/km2)

Lake County is a county located in the U.S. state of South Dakota. Established in 1873, the county was named for the lakes that dot its landscape. The county seat is Madison, which is also the largest city within the county.

Geography

Lake County encompasses an area of approximately 575 square miles, of which 563 square miles is land and 12 square miles is water. The county's geography is characterized by its numerous lakes, including the largest, Lake Madison. The terrain varies from flat prairies to rolling hills, typical of the Eastern South Dakota Plains.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, Lake County had a population of 12,846. The demographic composition has seen gradual changes with a mix of urban and rural populations. The county has a diverse economic base, with education, healthcare, and agriculture being the primary sectors.

Economy

The economy of Lake County is diverse, with a significant emphasis on education, healthcare, and agriculture. Dakota State University, located in Madison, is a major employer and contributes to the county's educational services. The healthcare sector is supported by local clinics and the Madison Regional Health System. Agriculture remains a vital part of the economy, with corn, soybeans, and dairy farming being predominant.

Education

Lake County is served by several school districts, including the Madison Central School District, which offers elementary through high school education. Higher education is primarily provided by Dakota State University, which specializes in computer management, information systems, and other tech-related fields.

Transportation

Major highways such as U.S. Route 81 and South Dakota Highway 34 facilitate travel and commerce within the county, connecting Madison with other major cities and states.

Recreation

The county offers various recreational opportunities, particularly related to its lakes. Activities such as fishing, boating, and camping are popular among residents and visitors. The county also maintains several parks and recreational facilities, providing spaces for outdoor activities and community events.

Government

The government of Lake County operates under a commissioner form of government, where elected officials are responsible for legislative functions such as enacting local ordinances, approving the budget, and overseeing county operations.

See also

• List of counties in South Dakota
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Lake County, South Dakota