Get to Know: Clarke County
Located south of Greater Des Moines (DSM), Clarke County offers a welcoming blend of small-town charm, outdoor recreation and convenient access to major transportation routes. Anchored by the county seat of Osceola at the intersection of Interstate 35 and U.S. Highway 34, Clarke County includes the communities of Murray, Woodburn and Weldon, along with several historic settlements and rural areas that contribute to its unique character. Residents enjoy a slower pace of life paired with locally owned businesses, community events, parks, trails and recreational amenities. From historic landmarks and local shops to lakeside recreation and growing economic opportunities, Clarke County provides an inviting place to live, work and explore.
Clarke County at a Glance
- Population: 9,524 (2024, US Census Bureau)
- Location within Greater Des Moines: South
- Distance from Des Moines: 50.2 miles
- Type of Community: Small Town/Rural County
- School Districts: Clarke Community School District
- Communities in Clarke County: Osceola, Murray, Weldon and Woodburn
Clarke County in one sentence: Clarke County combines small-town charm, outdoor recreation and regional connectivity in a welcoming community south of Des Moines.
The top five best things about Clarke County: Clarke County offers a unique combination of small-town living, recreation and accessibility. Its location at the crossroads of Interstate 35 and U.S. Highway 34 provides convenient access to opportunities throughout Iowa and the Midwest while maintaining a strong sense of community. Residents enjoy locally owned restaurants, shops and businesses throughout Osceola and the county’s surrounding communities.
Hidden Gems and Unexpected Finds in Clarke County: Clarke County is filled with locally owned businesses and attractions worth discovering. Enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine at Cuban Flavor, gather with friends at Iron Horse Neighborhood Grill or Playa Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, or satisfy your sweet tooth at Junction Creamery or Sweet Scoops. Coffee lovers can start their day at Mayberry’s Coffee, while Harvest Barn Marketplace offers a unique local shopping experience.
Community Traditions and Annual Events: Community events play a central role in life throughout Clarke County. The Clarke County Farmers’ Market brings residents and visitors together throughout the growing season to support local vendors and producers. Tuesday Night in the Park offers family-friendly activities, entertainment and community gathering opportunities throughout the summer months.
Seasonal traditions are also a highlight throughout Clarke County. The annual Fourth of July Celebration in Osceola brings the community together for several days of festivities, while the Osceola Latino Festival celebrates the area’s cultural diversity through music, dance, food, art and family-friendly activities in Historic Downtown Osceola. Fall fun at Harvest Barn Marketplace and holiday celebrations throughout the county’s communities provide even more opportunities for residents and visitors to gather, connect and celebrate throughout the year.
Best Ways to Get Connected: Getting involved in Clarke County is easy through the many organizations, programs and volunteer opportunities available throughout the community. Osceola Chamber Main Street helps connect residents and businesses through events and networking opportunities, while Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Clarke County offers educational programs, 4-H youth development and community resources. Residents can also participate in events and programs at the Osceola Public Library or volunteer with Clarke County Conservation through its Friends program, making it easy to build connections and get involved.
Big Things on the Horizon for Clarke County: Clarke County continues to invest in projects that support long-term growth and quality of life. Housing and community development initiatives include new single-family housing incentives, residential subdivisions and a mixed-use downtown development project designed to attract new residents and businesses. Infrastructure improvements such as the Clarke County Reservoir Project, Downtown Streetscape Project and local bridge replacement efforts will strengthen community assets and support future growth. Meanwhile, the Osceola Regional Business & Industrial Technology (ORBIT) Center is helping prepare the next generation workforce through advanced manufacturing training and workforce certifications, while Clarke County Conservation’s Pond at Oakwood project will expand outdoor recreation opportunities through a new public fishing pond and habitat restoration area.
If you’re coming to check out the community, be sure to spend your day...: exploring Osceola and the surrounding communities of Clarke County. Start your morning with coffee at The Velvet Nook & Roast before browsing local shops and visiting community staples like Fareway Meat & Grocery and the Osceola Public Library. In the afternoon, explore one of the area's parks, walk scenic trails or spend time by one of the nearby lakes. Continue your visit by catching an affordable movie at the beautifully restored Lyric Theater, a historic Art Deco gem. The Historic Depot, recognized as one of America’s Great Stations, offers a glimpse into the community’s railroad heritage and continues to serve Amtrak passengers today. Other local favorites include Revelton Distillery, where visitors can tour the distillery, enjoy craft cocktails and listen to live music and the Clarke County Historical Museum, which preserves and shares the area’s rich history. Before heading home, stop by Junction Creamery or Sweet Scoops for a treat.
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