Washington County
Situated less than 25 miles from the Kentucky-Indiana border along the Ohio River, Washington County offers a unique topography with sloping, “knobby” ridges for hiking and taking in the scenic views, and placid lakes where anglers can hook bluegill and largemouth bass. The northern portion of Washington County is known for its rural character with flat agricultural land and sprawling grain farms, while the city of Salem and the south offer ample employment opportunities in the manufacturing and healthcare sectors, and serve as a residential suburbs for commuters to nearby Louisville who choose small-town living.
Our Story
With 510 square miles, Washington County's history is rooted in agriculture and grist mills. Today, it's growing agri-tourism industry offers family fun with mainstays like Cornucopia Farms and opportunities to learn about 21st-century farming technologies like aquaponics. For the more adventurous, the Salem Speedway attracts visitors and motorsport enthusiasts to one of the most storied racetracks in America with a tradition in open wheel and stock car competition. Racing legends like Al Unser, Mario Andretti, Tony Stewart, Jeff Gordon, and many others have driven the track’s imposing 33-degree banks.
Photo courtesy of Salem Speedway.
Key Stats
Population: 28,102
Cities & Towns: Campellsburg, Hardinsburg, Little York, Livonia, New Pekin, Salem, & Saltillo
Key Industries: Manufacturing, education, and healthcare services
Notable Facts: Washington County contains Indiana’s longest hiking trail, the 58-mile Knobstone Trail, which many use to prepare for hiking the Appalachian Trail because of its steep climbs and descents.
LEARN MORE
Washington County Tourism Bureau
Discover Southern Indiana
Washington County Government
City of Salem
Town of New Pekin
Washington County Chamber of Commerce
Washington County Economic Growth Partnership
Radius Indiana – Economic Development
East Washington School Corporation
West Washington Schools
Salem Community Schools
Washington County Community Foundation
Salem Leader Newspaper