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.

Let it unfold.

Not everything needs to be scheduled to be meaningful.

Rusk/Palestine State Park

Each of the two units of the park offers outdoor fun and recreation, such as camping, hiking, picnicking, and pedal boating, along with watching native birds and small mammals. Rusk/Palestine…

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Things to Do in Rusk

Somewhere between here and nowhere.

The spaces in between are often the most memorable.

Fairchild State Forest

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Go a little further.

The next turn is often where things start to get interesting.

Footbridge Garden Park

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

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Simple trips are often the best.

You don't need much for a place to leave an impression.

Scenic Drive

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

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Go a little further.

The next turn is often where things start to get interesting.

Old Rusk Penitentiary Bldg.

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

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Make time for quiet places.

Not every destination needs noise to be meaningful.

Bonner Bank Building

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

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Make time for quiet places.

Not every destination needs noise to be meaningful.

Birmingham Forest Lake & Golf Club

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

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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…

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Go where you feel alive.

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

Texas State Railroad

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

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Upcoming Events

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Nearby Lakes & Parks