Rusk is a quaint little town nestled within the Piney Woods of East Texas.   While visiting Rusk take a ride on the Texas State Railroad's steam engine train, walk the longest footbridge in the nation, play golf at our local course, visit our two wildlife parks (Grapeland Drive Thru Safari and Cherokee Trace Drive-thru Safari), browse through the  specialty shops, enjoy local dining, or just relax at one of our lodging facilities.  We have three hotels, a number of charming bed & breakfasts and four campgrounds all designed with your family in mind. For those history buffs, Rusk is known for its 32 historical markers.  Set your cruise control to Rusk for the perfect family weekend!

Rusk is seated in the heart of East Texas at the intersection of US Highways 69 & 84: 160 miles N of Houston, 110 miles SW of Shreveport, 140 miles SE of Dallas, 225 miles NE of Austin, and 305 miles NE San Antonio.

Our History...

The City of Rusk was named for Thomas J. Rusk. Thomas J. Rusk is said to have held more official positions than anyone else during the days of The Texas Republic. He was a soldier, attorney, judge, statesman, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and Major General of the Texas Republic. He practiced law in Cherokee County from 1829 to 1856.

Rusk was named as the County Seat of Cherokee County by the Texas Legislature on April 11, 1846.