Towns in Sheridan County

Listings in Sheridan County

Sheridan County, Nebraska

A corridor of buttes, ranching towns, and frontier pride.

Sheridan County anchors northwest Nebraska with sweeping Sandhills, historic communities, and a legacy of ranching and resilience. From Rushville’s courthouse square to the quiet charm of Gordon and Hay Springs, every town and trail reflects the state’s western grit and natural grandeur.

County Seat: Rushville
Founded: 1885
Named For: General Philip Sheridan
License Plate Prefix: 61
Population: 5,127 (2020 census)
Area: 2,441 sq mi

History

Sheridan County was established in 1885 and named after General Philip Sheridan. The region developed through ranching, rail expansion, and frontier settlement. Rushville became the county seat and remains a hub of civic life and western heritage.

Geography

Location: Northwest Nebraska
Landscape: Sandhills, buttes, and open range
Major Highways: U.S. 20, Nebraska Highway 27
Adjacent Counties:
Cherry (E),
Box Butte (S),
Dawes (W),
Sioux (SW),
Fall River County, SD (N),
Bennett County, SD (NE)

Culture & Landmarks

• Sheridan County Courthouse (Rushville) – Historic courthouse built in 1904.
• Gordon Heritage Museum – Preserves local history and ranching culture.
• Hay Springs Historical Society – Pioneer exhibits and community archives.

Notable Communities

• Rushville – County seat with civic pride and frontier charm.
• Gordon – Largest town, known for ranching and regional services.
• Hay Springs, Ellsworth, Lakeside – Small towns with deep agricultural roots and community spirit.

Events & Festivals

• Gordon Days – Parade, rodeo, and community celebration.
• Sheridan County Fair – Livestock shows, exhibits, and entertainment.
• Rushville Ranch Rodeo – Showcases local ranching skills and western heritage.

Natural Attractions & Recreation

• Sandhills Trails – Hiking, horseback riding, and scenic drives.
• Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area – Fishing, birdwatching, and camping.
• Community Parks – Playgrounds and picnic areas in Gordon, Hay Springs, and surrounding towns.

Living in Sheridan County

Sheridan County offers a peaceful rural lifestyle shaped by ranching, natural beauty, and community pride. Rushville anchors the county with services and events, while towns like Gordon and Hay Springs preserve the region’s frontier legacy. With its open skies, quiet roads, and welcoming spirit, Sheridan County is a proud part of Nebraska’s northwestern corridor.