Ottawa County

Ottawa County occupies the northeastern corner of Oklahoma, with Miami functioning as the governmental and social hub of the territory. The landscape features woodlands, prairie sections, and waterways that characterize life and economic activity across the region.

The county was established as an administrative division in 1907 when Oklahoma achieved statehood, receiving its name from the Ottawa Tribe that had long inhabited the area. Lead and zinc discoveries in the early 1900s sparked mining operations that shaped the region's economic development and created lasting environmental concerns.

The territory is home to several Native American nations, including the Modoc and Quapaw peoples, whose presence shapes the community's identity and daily rhythms. Miami serves as the county seat and functions as a gathering point for residents.

Visitors can use Miami as their main entry point to access governmental services and get oriented in the region. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant conditions for exploring, as the weather is comfortable and the landscape looks inviting.

The region contains historical lead and zinc mining sites that are part of the Tar Creek Superfund Site, now representing environmental recovery efforts. These former mining locations tell the story of Oklahoma's industrial past and offer insight into how the landscape has changed over time.

Location: Oklahoma

Inception: 1907

Capital city: Miami

Shares border with: Cherokee County, Delaware County, Newton County, McDonald County, Craig County

Website: http://ottawacountygov.com

GPS coordinates: 36.84000,-94.81000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:25