Jacksonville

Jacksonville was a post office community before 1849, but it moved three miles to its present site when the International-Great Northern Railroad was built in 1872. During the 1930s and ’40s Jacksonville was known as the “tomato capital” when more tomatoes were shipped from here than any other city. Each June the city celebrates Tomato Fest honoring the once important crop.

More than 80 diversified manufacturing firms are located in Jacksonville, many associated with plastic, wood, and air conditioning coils and condensers. It is the home of Baptist Missionary Assocociation Theological Seminary, Jacksonville College, and Lon Morris College. A basket factory-direct store is popular with shoppers.

Follow what feels interesting.

Curiosity is usually a better guide than a strict plan.

Lookout Mountain

First Monday Trade Days offers all sorts of wares, antiques, and collectibles. Camping facilities available with hookups and hiking trails. Mountain bikers can ride on trails year round.

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Things to Do in Jacksonville

Go where you feel alive.

Pay attention to the places that pull you in without explanation.

Love’s Lookout Park

View is breathtaking; picnicking. Observation area has 35-mile view of East Texas hills

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Let the road decide.

Plans are useful, but flexibility is where the real discoveries happen.

Cherokee Country Club

Course Access: PrivateHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: Yes

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Worth the stop.

Some places don't need much time, just the right moment.

Vanishing Texana

Museum in Jacksonville Public Library displays Cherokee County historical items.

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Take the detour.

The extra miles are often where the story begins.

Killough Monument

Native stone monument commemorates victims of East Texas' worst Indian depredation, erected on spot where…

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Stop when something catches your eye.

Those moments tend to matter more than the planned ones.

Scenic Drives

Beautiful hill, forest and lake scenery both north and south on U.S. 69; also along…

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Upcoming Events

Nearby Lakes & Parks