About Rusk County

Discover Rusk County: Where History and Nature Connect

Nestled in northwestern Wisconsin, Rusk County is a place where history, adventure, and small-town charm come together. Originally founded as Gates County in 1901, we were renamed in 1905 to honor Jeremiah M. Rusk, Wisconsin’s former governor and the nation’s first U.S. Secretary of Agriculture. Formed from the northern portion of Chippewa County, Rusk County spans 931 square miles and is home to a welcoming community of over 14,000 residents.

Our county is shaped by its natural beauty and accessibility. Four majestic rivers—the Flambeau, Thornapple, Jump, and Chippewa—wind through the landscape, offering endless outdoor recreation. Major highways, including US Highway 8 and State Highways 27, 40, and 73, provide convenient travel, while two railroads—Canadian National and Watco—keep our industries connected. For air travel, Rusk County Airport (KRCX) serves the region, ensuring seamless access to and from our community.

Whether you're here to explore, do business, or call it home, Rusk County offers an authentic Wisconsin experience where history and nature thrive together.