Laurel, Washington facts for kids

Laurel is a small, quiet place in Whatcom County, Washington, United States. It's known as an unincorporated community. This means it doesn't have its own city government like a town or city would. Instead, it's managed by the county government. Laurel is located between two larger cities, Bellingham and Lynden. You can find it right along State Route 539.

What is an Unincorporated Community?

An unincorporated community is a place where people live together, but it's not officially a city or town. It doesn't have a mayor or its own city council. Instead, the local county government provides services like roads, police, and fire protection. This is common in many parts of the United States.

How Laurel is Governed

Since Laurel is unincorporated, decisions about its roads, schools, and public safety are made by the Whatcom County government. Residents of Laurel pay taxes to the county, and in return, they receive services from the county. This setup helps keep things simple for smaller communities.

Geography and Location

Laurel is situated in the beautiful Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It's part of Whatcom County, which is in the northwest corner of Washington State. The area around Laurel is mostly flat, with some gentle rolling hills. This makes it good for farming and other outdoor activities.

Where is Laurel on the Map?

Laurel is easy to find on a map of Whatcom County. It's positioned almost exactly halfway between the city of Bellingham to the south and the city of Lynden to the north. State Route 539 runs right through Laurel, making it a key road for people traveling between these two cities. The elevation of Laurel is about 29 meters (95 feet) above sea level.

Life in Laurel

Life in Laurel is often described as peaceful and rural. Many people who live here enjoy the quiet atmosphere and the open spaces. It's a place where neighbors often know each other, and there's a strong sense of community. The area is surrounded by farms, which adds to its country feel.

Community Activities

Even without a city government, communities like Laurel often have local groups and events. Residents might organize community gatherings, school events, or local sports teams. These activities help bring people together and build a strong local spirit.

Nearby Cities and Attractions

Laurel's location offers easy access to larger cities and natural attractions. Both Bellingham and Lynden are just a short drive away. These cities provide more options for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Exploring Whatcom County

Whatcom County is known for its stunning natural beauty. From Laurel, you can easily reach places like Mount Baker, a large volcano popular for skiing and hiking. The Salish Sea is also nearby, offering opportunities for boating and enjoying the coastline. The county has many parks and trails for outdoor adventures.

See also

In Spanish: Laurel (Washington) para niños