Wayne County, Utah

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Wayne County, Utah is a county located in the south-central region of the U.S. state of Utah. As of the 2020 census, the population was 2,486, making it one of the least populous counties in the state. The county seat is Loa.

History

Wayne County was established in 1892 and was named after Wayne County, Tennessee, which in turn was named for Anthony Wayne, a general in the American Revolutionary War. The county has a rich history of Native American habitation, particularly by the Fremont culture and later the Ute people.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 2,466 square miles (6,390 km²), of which 2,461 square miles (6,370 km²) is land and 5.3 square miles (14 km²) (0.2%) is water. The county is characterized by its rugged terrain, including parts of the Colorado Plateau and the Henry Mountains.

Adjacent counties

• Emery County (north)
• Grand County (northeast)
• San Juan County (east)
• Garfield County (south)
• Sevier County (west)
• Piute County (southwest)

National protected areas

• Capitol Reef National Park
• Fishlake National Forest (part)
• Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (part)

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 2,486 people, 1,000 households, and 700 families residing in the county. The population density was 1.0 inhabitants per square mile (0.39/km²). The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with small percentages of Native American, Asian, and other races.

Economy

The economy of Wayne County is largely based on agriculture, tourism, and government services. The presence of Capitol Reef National Park significantly contributes to the local economy by attracting tourists.

Communities

Towns

• Bicknell
• Hanksville
• Loa (county seat)
• Lyman
• Torrey

Unincorporated communities

• Fremont
• Teasdale

Education

Wayne County is served by the Wayne School District, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Wayne High School.

Transportation

The county is accessible via Utah State Route 24 and Utah State Route 95, which connect it to other parts of the state.

See also

• List of counties in Utah
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Wayne County, Utah