About Blaine County
Blaine County is a rural county located in the northern region of the state of San Andreas. With a land area of over 3,000 square miles, it is the largest county in the state, though relatively sparsely populated.
Blaine County contains mountainous forests, lakes, rivers, and high desert landscapes. It is best known for outdoor recreational activities as well as isolated small towns and settlements. Below are details on some of its major population centers.
Sandy Shores - A desert town along the Alamo Sea that serves as the county seat. Its economy revolves around serving travelers along Route 13 with motels, trailer parks, and RV camping.
Paleto Bay - Situated in a forested valley, Paleto Bay is the most populous town in Blaine County with agriculture and lumber as top industries. It features a historic main street and harbor area.
Grapeseed - Primarily a farming town, Grapeseed produces crops like grapes and olives. It consists mostly of cultivated farmland with a main street and small residential areas.
Harmony - Founded by hippie communities, Harmony is known for spiritual retreats, new age shops, yoga studios, and organic farms. The relaxed, eccentric culture contrasts with Blaine County's prevailing rural conservatism.
Stab City - An illegal shantytown with open drug use and crime. The isolation allows it to exist outside formal governance despite periodic calls to dismantle it.
Challenges
Blaine County grapples with issues common in remote communities:
- Limited job opportunities and access to services
- High rates of poverty and addiction
- Underfunded schools, libraries, and social programs
- Overreliance on polluting extractive industries
- Lack of high-speed internet connectivity
Nevertheless, natural beauty and small town living continue attracting residents seeking refuge from San Andreas' urban sprawl.