Pipestone County

Pipestone County is an administrative division in southwestern Minnesota characterized by gently rolling hills and agricultural lands. Its western boundary adjoins South Dakota, and the county encompasses approximately 466 square miles of rural terrain.

The county was established by the Minnesota territorial legislature in 1857 and formally organized in 1879. These dates mark the official incorporation of a region with a long history of indigenous resource use.

Native American communities have harvested red pipestone from local quarries for generations to craft ceremonial pipes with deep spiritual meaning. This practice continues today as an important part of their traditions and cultural identity.

The county is primarily agricultural and offers visitors the chance to experience rural landscapes and local community life. It is easily accessible by car and straightforward to navigate, making exploration of the area convenient.

This county is one of only four in Minnesota that has no natural lakes within its boundaries. This rare geographic characteristic sets it apart from the vast majority of the state's other counties.

Location: Minnesota

Inception: May 23, 1857

Capital city: Pipestone

Shares border with: Moody County, Rock County, Minnehaha County, Brookings County, Lincoln County, Lyon County, Murray County

Website: http://co.pipestone.mn.us

GPS coordinates: 44.02000,-96.25000

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:57