Rusk

Although only one family was living here in 1846, Rusk was chosen as the seat of Cherokee County. The town is named after Thomas Jefferson Rusk, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. Rusk is also famed as the birthplace of James Stephen Hogg and Thomas Mitchell Campbell who were the first and second native-born Texans to serve as governor.

More road, less rush.

There's no need to hurry through something worth experiencing.

Jim Hogg Historic Park

175-acre scenic forest area of lofty pines. Dedicated as memorial to Governor Hogg, attractions include restored birthplace, picnic areas, museum and family cemetery. Two mi. northeast off U.S. 84.

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Things to Do in Rusk

Find your way.

There's no single right route, just the one that fits you.

Texas State Railroad

Operated by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, antique steam engines power vintage coaches 25 miles…

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Somewhere between here and nowhere.

The spaces in between are often the most memorable.

Old Rusk Penitentiary Bldg.

Central administration building of present Rusk State Hospital built as main building of former Rusk…

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Stop when something catches your eye.

Those moments tend to matter more than the planned ones.

Bonner Bank Building

Cherokee County's first bank, established 1884, in 1865 building. Euclid St. and U.S. 69.

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Start early. Stay late.

The edges of the day tend to hold the best experiences.

Birmingham Forest Lake & Golf Club

Course Access: PublicHoles: 9Reserve Advance Tee Times: Yes

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Take the detour.

The extra miles are often where the story begins.

Footbridge Garden Park

Wooded setting for 546-foot footbridge, said to be nation's longest, originally built 1861 for crossing…

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Pause when it feels right.

Some stops aren't on the map, but they're worth taking.

Scenic Drive

Several routes near Rusk offer excellent woodland scenery: U.S. 69 both north and south; also…

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Take the detour.

The extra miles are often where the story begins.

Rusk/Palestine State Park

Each of the two units of the park offers outdoor fun and recreation, such as…

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Take less, experience more.

What you carry matters less than what you notice.

Fairchild State Forest

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Upcoming Events

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Nearby Lakes & Parks