Admitted as a state in 1836, Arkansas was part of the Confederacy during the Civil War. The state is known for its agricultural history and natural resources. Arkansas has 75 counties.
10 Largest Counties in Arkansas
1. Pulaski County
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 399,125
- Area Codes: 501
- Zip Codes: 72076, 72078, 72113, 72114, 72117, 72118, 72119, 72124, 72135, 72142, 72164, 72183, 72201-72227
- County Seat: Little Rock
Geography and History:
Pulaski County, located in central Arkansas, spans 808 square miles, with the Arkansas River flowing through it. The county is characterized by urban areas like Little Rock, hilly regions to the west, and fertile land along the river. The climate is humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters.
Named after Polish Revolutionary War hero Kazimierz Pulaski, the county was formed in 1818. Little Rock, the state capital, became a central hub for government and commerce in Arkansas. The county’s location along the Arkansas River made it a key transportation and trading route in the 19th century, spurring growth and development.
Colleges and Universities:
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock: A public research university offering undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines.
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS): A leading institution for medical education, research, and healthcare services.
- Pulaski Technical College: Offers vocational and technical training for students across central Arkansas.
Major Landmarks:
Pulaski County is home to the Clinton Presidential Center, dedicated to the legacy of President Bill Clinton. The Arkansas State Capitol, a historic building resembling the U.S. Capitol, is also located here. Other landmarks include the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, which played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement.
2. Benton County
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 310,340
- Area Codes: 479
- Zip Codes: 72712, 72714, 72715, 72718, 72719, 72722, 72734, 72739, 72745, 72756, 72758, 72761, 72764
- County Seat: Bentonville
Geography and History:
Benton County covers 884 square miles in the northwest corner of Arkansas. The landscape is characterized by the Ozark Mountains, which provide rolling hills, valleys, and an abundance of natural springs. The county enjoys a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons.
Established in 1836, Benton County was named after Missouri Senator Thomas Hart Benton, who supported westward expansion. Originally an agricultural hub, the county’s growth exploded with the establishment of Walmart’s headquarters in Bentonville. Over time, the county has evolved into an economic powerhouse, with a mix of retail, industry, and natural beauty.
Colleges and Universities:
- NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC): Offers two-year degrees, technical certifications, and transfer programs.
- University of Arkansas (UA): Located nearby in Fayetteville, the state’s flagship institution offers educational opportunities to Benton County residents.
- John Brown University: A private Christian university offering undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields.
Major Landmarks:
Key landmarks include Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, a renowned museum founded by the Walton family, and the Walmart Museum in downtown Bentonville, celebrating the history of the retail giant. The county also features outdoor attractions like Beaver Lake and the Razorback Greenway, a biking and walking trail that spans several counties.
3. Washington County
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 245,871
- Area Codes: 479
- Zip Codes: 72701, 72703, 72727, 72730, 72735, 72740, 72744, 72753, 72761, 72762, 72764
- County Seat: Fayetteville
Geography and History:
Washington County spans 951 square miles and features the Ozark Mountains, with its hilly terrain and deep valleys. The county has a mix of rural areas, agricultural lands, and rapidly growing urban centers. Fayetteville, located in the heart of the county, is the largest city and educational hub.
Established in 1828, the county was named after George Washington. It played a key role in the Civil War, with the Battle of Prairie Grove being a significant event. Fayetteville has grown as a cultural and economic center in northwest Arkansas, largely due to the University of Arkansas.
Colleges and Universities:
- University of Arkansas (UA): The state’s flagship university, offering over 200 academic programs, including law, architecture, and engineering.
- NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC): Offers additional educational opportunities with campuses in Fayetteville and Bentonville.
- Ecclesia College: A private Christian liberal arts college located in Springdale.
Major Landmarks:
The University of Arkansas campus, including the iconic Old Main building, is one of the region’s major landmarks. Fayetteville’s historic downtown square is also a focal point for culture and commerce. Nearby, Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park commemorates a key Civil War battle and offers a glimpse into the county’s historical significance.
4. Sebastian County
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 127,799
- Area Codes: 479
- Zip Codes: 72901, 72903, 72904, 72908, 72916, 72923, 72932, 72936, 72937, 72956
- County Seat: Fort Smith
Geography and History:
Sebastian County covers 546 square miles in western Arkansas, bordering Oklahoma. The county features a diverse topography, including the Arkansas River, rolling hills, and fertile plains. Its location makes it a key transportation and trade hub between Arkansas and the rest of the country.
Formed in 1851, the county was named after U.S. Senator William K. Sebastian. Fort Smith, the county seat, grew as a frontier outpost and military fort in the early 19th century. It later became a major hub for trade and law enforcement, particularly during the westward expansion period. The county’s history is rich in frontier and Wild West lore, particularly around Fort Smith.
Colleges and Universities:
- University of Arkansas – Fort Smith (UAFS): Offers a range of associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs.
- Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus: Provides technical and professional programs in nearby Ozark, serving Sebastian County residents.
- University of Arkansas Little Rock – School of Law: While located in Little Rock, UAFS offers pre-law courses that prepare students for law school.
Major Landmarks:
Fort Smith National Historic Site is a major landmark, preserving the history of the frontier fort and the role of Judge Isaac Parker, known as the “Hanging Judge.” The city is also home to the Fort Smith National Cemetery and the Belle Grove Historic District. The annual Old Fort Days Rodeo is another cultural highlight, reflecting the region’s Western heritage.
5. Saline County
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 123,416
- Area Codes: 501
- Zip Codes: 72002, 72011, 72015, 72018, 72019, 72022, 72087, 72089
- County Seat: Benton
Geography and History:
Saline County spans 730 square miles in central Arkansas. The Saline River runs through the county, providing a mix of flatlands, rolling hills, and forested areas. The climate is typically humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters.
Saline County was established in 1835 and named for the area’s natural salt deposits. Early settlers harvested salt from the riverbanks, making it an important commodity. In the 20th century, the county’s economy grew around agriculture, timber, and later suburban development, as it became part of the Little Rock metropolitan area.
Colleges and Universities:
- University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College: Has a campus in Benton, providing vocational training and associate degrees.
- Bryant College and Career Academy: A vocational and technical institution aimed at preparing high school students for careers.
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock: Located nearby, offering comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs.
Major Landmarks:
Hot Springs National Park is located just outside Saline County and is a major draw for residents and visitors alike. In Benton, the Gann Museum of Saline County showcases local history, while the Saline River offers outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing and kayaking.
6. Faulkner County
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 126,007
- Area Codes: 501
- Zip Codes: 72032, 72034, 72039, 72058, 72061, 72067, 72106
- County Seat: Conway
Geography and History:
Faulkner County covers 664 square miles in central Arkansas, featuring a mix of rolling hills, farmland, and forested areas. The county is part of the Little Rock metropolitan area and experiences hot summers and mild winters typical of a humid subtropical climate.
The county was formed in 1873 and named after Col. Sanford Faulkner, a prominent figure in Arkansas history, known for popularizing the “Arkansas Traveler” story. Conway, the county seat, has grown into a significant educational and business hub over the years, home to a thriving population of students and professionals.
Colleges and Universities:
- University of Central Arkansas (UCA): A public university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Hendrix College: A private liberal arts college located in Conway, consistently ranked among the top schools in the South.
- Central Baptist College: A private Christian college offering degrees in various fields, including business, education, and theology.
Major Landmarks:
Faulkner County is home to the Cadron Settlement Park, which preserves the site of an early pioneer settlement along the Arkansas River. Conway’s vibrant downtown area, with its shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, is a key attraction. Lake Conway, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, offers fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.
7. Craighead County
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 113,543
- Area Codes: 870
- Zip Codes: 72401, 72404, 72416, 72417, 72419, 72421, 72437
- County Seat: Jonesboro
Geography and History:
Craighead County spans 713 square miles in northeastern Arkansas, part of the Arkansas Delta and Crowley’s Ridge. The region is primarily flat, with fertile soil ideal for agriculture. The county experiences hot summers and mild winters typical of the Delta region.
Established in 1859, the county was named after state Senator Thomas Craighead. Jonesboro, the county seat, grew as a center for agriculture, particularly cotton and soybeans, and later became a regional hub for commerce, healthcare, and education.
Colleges and Universities:
- Arkansas State University (ASU): A major public research university in Jonesboro, offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
- Black River Technical College: Provides two-year degrees and technical certifications, serving Craighead County residents.
- Crowley’s Ridge College: A private Christian institution offering undergraduate programs in arts and sciences.
Major Landmarks:
Craighead Forest Park is one of the county’s main outdoor attractions, offering hiking, fishing, and recreational opportunities. The ASU Museum, located on the university’s campus, showcases the region’s natural and cultural history. Downtown Jonesboro features a vibrant arts and entertainment scene, including restaurants, shops, and historic buildings.
8. Garland County
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 100,180
- Area Codes: 501
- Zip Codes: 71901, 71909, 71913, 71949, 71956
- County Seat: Hot Springs
Geography and History:
Garland County covers 735 square miles in the Ouachita Mountains of central Arkansas. The county is known for its thermal springs, rolling hills, and dense forests. Hot Springs National Park is a central feature, giving the area its name and fame.
Established in 1873, Garland County was named after Augustus H. Garland, a former governor of Arkansas. Hot Springs became famous in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a spa town, attracting visitors from around the country seeking the healing powers of its natural springs. The area’s scenic beauty and health tourism industry have long driven its economy.
Colleges and Universities:
- National Park College: A two-year institution located in Hot Springs, offering associate degrees and vocational programs.
- Champion Christian College: A small private Christian college focusing on undergraduate education.
- Henderson State University: Located nearby in Arkadelphia, providing higher education opportunities for Garland County residents.
Major Landmarks:
Garland County’s major landmark is Hot Springs National Park, renowned for its historic bathhouses and thermal waters. The park is intertwined with the city, creating a unique urban park experience. Other landmarks include Lake Hamilton and Lake Ouachita, both popular for boating, fishing, and other water-based recreation.
9. Jefferson County
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 67,260
- Area Codes: 870
- Zip Codes: 71601, 71602, 71603, 71611, 71612, 71613
- County Seat: Pine Bluff
Geography and History:
Jefferson County spans 914 square miles in southeastern Arkansas, located in the Arkansas Delta. The county’s landscape is primarily flat and dominated by rich agricultural land along the Arkansas River. The county experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters.
Founded in 1829, Jefferson County was named after President Thomas Jefferson. Pine Bluff, the county seat, developed as a cotton trade center and later as an industrial hub. The county’s economy has historically been based on agriculture, particularly cotton and soybeans, although manufacturing and healthcare have become increasingly important.
Colleges and Universities:
- University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB): A historically black university offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Southeast Arkansas College (SEARK): Provides technical and vocational education, as well as associate degrees.
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock: Offers various programs and opportunities for Jefferson County residents through distance education.
Major Landmarks:
The Arkansas Railroad Museum in Pine Bluff celebrates the county’s rich railroad history, while the Delta Rivers Nature Center showcases the natural beauty and wildlife of the Arkansas Delta. The Saracen Casino Resort, one of the largest casinos in the state, is a key modern attraction in the area.
10. White County
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 78,753
- Area Codes: 501
- Zip Codes: 72010, 72012, 72021, 72081, 72082, 72085, 72088
- County Seat: Searcy
Geography and History:
White County covers 1,042 square miles in central Arkansas, with its geography ranging from flat agricultural lands in the east to rolling hills and forests in the west. The Little Red River runs through the county, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Formed in 1835, the county was named after Hugh Lawson White, a U.S. Senator from Tennessee. Searcy, the county seat, has developed into a regional center for commerce, healthcare, and education. Agriculture, particularly cotton and soybeans, has long been the backbone of White County’s economy.
Colleges and Universities:
- Harding University: A private Christian university in Searcy, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Arkansas State University-Beebe: A two-year institution offering associate degrees, certifications, and transfer programs to four-year universities.
- Searcy Technical College: Provides technical and vocational education to local residents.
Major Landmarks:
The Little Red River, known for its trout fishing, is a popular outdoor destination. Pioneer Village, a collection of 19th-century buildings, showcases the county’s early history. Harding University’s campus, with its historic architecture and vibrant student life, is another focal point in the community.