Garfield County Nebraska

Map_of_Nebraska_highlighting_Garfield_County

Garfield County, Nebraska

County Seat: Burwell
Founded: 1884
Named For: James A. Garfield, 20th President of the United States
License Plate Prefix: 83
Population: 1,813 (2020 census)
Area: 571 sq mi

History

Garfield County was created in 1884 and named in honor of President James A. Garfield. The area was settled by homesteaders drawn to the North Loup River Valley. Burwell, the county seat, developed as a ranching and trade center and later became known for hosting Nebraska’s Big Rodeo. The county’s history is rooted in agriculture, frontier resilience, and community celebration.

Geography

Location: North-central Nebraska
Landscape: River valleys, rolling hills, and Sandhills prairie
Major Highways: Nebraska Highways 11, 91, 70
Adjacent Counties: Holt (N), Wheeler (E), Valley (S), Loup (W), Rock (NW)

Culture & Landmarks

Garfield County Courthouse (Burwell) – Built in 1901, still in use today.
Nebraska’s Big Rodeo Grounds – Historic venue for one of the state’s oldest rodeos.
Garfield County Historical Museum – Preserves pioneer and ranching heritage.
Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area – Major regional destination for outdoor recreation.

Notable Communities

Burwell – County seat and home of Nebraska’s Big Rodeo.
Erina – Rural community with deep agricultural roots.

Events & Festivals

Nebraska’s Big Rodeo (Burwell) – Multi-day event with parades, concerts, and rodeo competitions.
Garfield County Fair – Livestock shows, exhibits, and community gatherings.

Natural Attractions & Recreation

Calamus Reservoir – Boating, fishing, camping, and scenic views.
North Loup River – Canoeing, tubing, and wildlife viewing.
Calamus Golf Course – 9-hole course near the reservoir.

Living in Garfield County

Garfield County offers a peaceful rural lifestyle with strong community traditions and access to outdoor recreation. Burwell provides essential services and hosts major events, while the surrounding landscape supports agriculture and tourism. With its rodeo heritage and natural beauty, Garfield County is a proud and welcoming part of Nebraska’s Sandhills region.