Turner County

Turner County is an administrative division in South Dakota that spans an area of rolling hills and farmland. The region features numerous gullies and drainage systems that shape the landscape between neighboring counties.

The county was established in 1871 and named after John W. Turner, a territorial official from the region's early years. This naming honors his role in the territory's development.

The Turner County Agriculture Society organizes the oldest county fair in the Dakotas, with the first event taking place in October 1880.

The area is served by four school districts that provide educational services to local communities. Understanding these local structures helps visitors get oriented to the different towns and their services.

The county terrain rises to 1,578 feet above sea level at its western boundary, with numerous gullies and drainage systems crossing the landscape.

Location: South Dakota

Inception: 1871

Capital city: Parker

Shares border with: Clay County, Hutchinson County, Lincoln County, McCook County, Minnehaha County, Yankton County

Website: https://turner.sdcounties.org

GPS coordinates: 43.31000,-97.15000

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:46