Pope County Map, Illinois

Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: April 26, 2026 | 14:30 ET

Map of Pope County - Pope County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. Pope County Map showing cities, highways, important places and water bodies. Get Where is Pope County located in the map, major cities in Pope county, population, areas, and places of interest.

Pope County Map, Illinois

Pope County Map, Illinois

About Pope County Map, Illinois: The map showing the county boundary, county seat, major cities, highways, water bodies and neighbouring counties.

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Pope County, Illinois

Pope County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. It's county seat is Golconda. As per 2020 census, the population of Pope County is 3779 people and population density is square miles. According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 368 sq mi (953 km2). Pope County was established on 1816.

Facts about Pope County, Illinois

CountryUnited States
StateIllinois
RegionSouthern Illinois
County SeatGolconda
Named AfterNathaniel Pope
Established1816
Organized1816
Coordinates37.42° N, 88.55° W
Total Area~374 sq mi
Land Area~369 sq mi
Water Area~5 sq mi
Population (2020)~4,086
Population RankSmallest county in Illinois by population
Largest CityGolconda
Main IndustriesTourism, Agriculture, Forestry
Major HighwaysIllinois Route 146, Illinois Route 34
Time ZoneCentral Time (UTC−06:00)
Known ForShawnee National Forest, Ohio River bluffs, outdoor recreation
Websitehttps://www.popecountyil.gov

Ctities in Pope county

City NameTypePopulation (2020)Pop. DensityArea
EddyvilleVillage99352.3/sq mi (136.0/km2)0.281 sq mi (0.73 km2)
GolcondaCity6301,235.3/sq mi (476.9/km2)0.51 sq mi (1.32 km2)

Roads and Highways in Pope County, Illinois

Pope County is connected by scenic highways that provide access to southern Illinois and the Shawnee National Forest region.

  • Illinois Route 146 – runs east-west through the county, connecting Golconda to Vienna and Anna
  • Illinois Route 145 – runs north-south, linking Golconda to Eddyville and Vienna
  • Illinois Route 34 – runs east-west, connecting the county to Harrisburg and Elizabethtown
  • Illinois Route 1 – runs north-south nearby, providing access to surrounding areas

Neighboring Counties of Pope County

  • Johnson County (northwest)
  • Saline County (north)
  • Hardin County (east)
  • Massac County (southwest)
  • Crittenden County, Kentucky (southeast)

Top Attractions in Pope County, Illinois

Pope County offers breathtaking natural scenery, outdoor recreation, and access to the Shawnee National Forest.

  • Garden of the Gods – A famous rock formation area with panoramic views and hiking trails.
  • Shawnee National Forest – Offers extensive hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
  • Golconda Riverfront – Provides scenic views along the Ohio River.
  • Dixon Springs State Park – Features trails, waterfalls, and natural beauty.
  • Rim Rock Recreational Trail – A popular hiking trail with rock formations and views.
  • Golconda Downtown Area – Features historic buildings and small-town charm.
  • Pope County Fairgrounds – Hosts local events and community gatherings.

Distance from Pope County to Nearby Cities

  • Golconda to Paducah – 25 mi (40 km)
  • Golconda to Harrisburg – 30 mi (48 km)
  • Golconda to Carbondale – 70 mi (113 km)
  • Golconda to Evansville – 90 mi (145 km)
  • Golconda to St. Louis – 160 mi (257 km)

FAQs about Pope County

Where is Pope County located?

Pope County is located in southern Illinois, along the Ohio River and within the Shawnee National Forest region.

What is Pope County known for?

The county is known for Garden of the Gods, scenic landscapes, and outdoor recreation.

What is the county seat of Pope County?

Golconda is the county seat and main community in Pope County.

Are there outdoor activities in Pope County?

Yes, visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, parks, and scenic natural areas throughout the county.

How can I reach Pope County?

Pope County is accessible via Illinois Routes 146, 145, and 34.