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.

Take the long way.

The best parts of the trip are usually the ones you didn't plan.

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

Let it unfold.

Not everything needs to be scheduled to be meaningful.

Fairchild State Forest

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Make time for quiet places.

Not every destination needs noise to be meaningful.

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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Let the road decide.

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

Old Rusk Penitentiary Bldg.

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

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Go where you feel alive.

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

Bonner Bank Building

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

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Follow what feels interesting.

Curiosity is usually a better guide than a strict plan.

Birmingham Forest Lake & Golf Club

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

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Find your way.

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

Jim Hogg Historic Park

175-acre scenic forest area of lofty pines. Dedicated as memorial to Governor Hogg, attractions include…

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Follow what feels interesting.

Curiosity is usually a better guide than a strict plan.

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