Atchison County, MO lies in northwest Missouri and borders Iowa on its west side. With a population of 5,623 it's the smallest county in the state. Its largest city is Rock Port and its other communities include Fairfax and Tarkio. Atchison County plays an important role in history due to being the location for General Order 11 during the Civil War that forced many citizens from their homes because they were suspected Confederate sympathizers. Today, it boasts an abundance of natural areas perfect for fishing or hiking including Big Lake Wildlife Management Area and Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge.