PALO PINTO COUNTY
County Offices
520 Oak Street
Palo Pinto 940-659-1277
https://www.co.palo-pinto.tx.us/
Chamber of Commerce
511 E Hubbard Street
Mineral Wells 940-325-2557
https://www.mineralwellstx.com/
Services
Situated in the Hill Country of North Texas, the area known as Palo Pinto County offers the relaxed pace and friendliness of a rural environment in close proximity to the dynamic Metroplex. Mineral Wells serves as the hub of higher education and commerce for the region. More than 25 physicians practice in the city, although other specialists provide regular services in the area. Palo Pinto County’s primary healthcare facility, Palo Pinto General Hospital, is also among the county’s largest employers. The 99-bed, acute-care regional hospital offers a Level IV trauma unit and is distinguished as the largest facility between Fort Worth and Abilene. The hospital provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services that include a specialty clinic for cardiology, neurosurgery, and other specialized services. Palo Pinto General Hospital also manages four rural clinics and Care Flight or ambulance service for rapid transit to Dallas-Fort Worth area medical facilities.
State-of-the-art classrooms supported by advanced technology combine with a dedicated staff and a strong core curriculum in Palo Pinto County school districts. Communities are dedicated to quality education places “children first,” supporting the construction of new schools as well as the renovation of existing facilities. Recognized on state levels, the schools have spearheaded innovative programs like hands-on learning through a local television weather station or technological preparation agreements with several of the area’s finest colleges and universities. Students of all ages have the opportunity to earn certificates or complete two-year degrees at the Weatherford College main campus or its west campus, the Education Center at Mineral Wells. Other options for undergraduate or graduate study close to home include Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas Christian University and Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth, the University of North Texas in Denton, and a variety of institutions in Dallas.
Lifestyle
Newcomers to Palo Pinto County will discover a blend of unique attractions, excellent recreational facilities and amenities, and a high quality of life in close-knit communities. The first designated “Scenic Highway” in Texas traverses the region, showcasing panoramic byways of rolling hills, brilliant wildflowers, and autumn foliage. Clark Gardens features more than 20 acres of display gardens, while the impressive Don Burns Memorial Rose Garden honors a World War II veteran and native son. Injured bats find a habitat at the fascinating Bat World Sanctuary and Living Museum, while a local ranch protects several magnificent buffalo. Another point of interest is the historic 1929 Baker Hotel, once welcoming guests like Clark Gable, Marlene Dietrich, and Judy Garland. Today, the grandeur of the former hotel can be seen on the ground floor where several businesses have taken residence. The Mineral Wells Art Association and Artist Rally of Texas collaborated to form the Creative Art Center where residents can attend workshops and classes.
The Brazos River and the commerce that has sprung up along its banks play a major role in the recreational opportunities throughout Palo Pinto County. Three inviting lakes provide the finest in water sports, while Lake Mineral Wells State Park encourages outdoor adventures that include fishing, and paddleboating, swimming. Lake Palo Pinto and Possum Kingdom Lake attract boaters, with the latter offering excellent scuba diving features for everyone from novices to professionals. Brazos River, fed by the water released from Possum Kingdom Lake, ensures inexpensive summer activities for the entire family such as canoeing, rafting, and tubing. Those who prefer dry land will enjoy horseback riding, hiking, rappelling, camping, and bike riding throughout the state park and associated trailway. With its rich historic legacy, modern services, and attractive housing including upscale lakefront property, Palo Pinto County is sure to remain on the leading edge of growth and development.
Mineral Wells
City Hall
940-328-7700
https://www.mineralwellstx.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
940-325-2557
https://www.mineralwellstx.com/
Rich in history and proud of its unique attractions, the welcoming community of Mineral Wells provides urban services including a Weatherford College campus to a regional population. Wonderful museums and historic sites dot the area, from the Baker Hotel to the Old Jailhouse Museum. Families will discover a warm, close-knit spirit that caters to quality leisure time within the city as well as the countryside. Just north of the city, Santa’s Forest invites families to seek out and cut down the ideal Christmas tree while they enjoy refreshments, wagon rides, and crafts. The Brazos River, three sparkling lakes, and state parkland guarantee year-round outdoor activities including rock climbing, water sports, hiking, camping, biking, and fishing. Housing opportunities in this area range from well-kept older homes in the heart of town to newer construction. Elegant lakefront properties with breathtaking views add to the diverse selection of properties and possible lifestyles.
Palo Pinto
City Office
940-659-1277
https://www.co.palo-pinto.tx.us/
Chamber of Commerce
940-325-2557
www.mineralwellstx.com
One of the smallest county seats in Texas, Palo Pinto was once a growing population center of 23,000 residents during the oil boom of the early 1900s. Eventually, Mineral Wells became the dominant urban center. Today, Palo Pinto showcases a wonderful historic courthouse that still serves as the center of county government. While the structure lacks the magnificence of Romanesque courthouses built in the 1890s, it claims an understated charm with its brass doorknobs and eagle-crested light fixtures. Among the attractions to the small town is the Auction House on the square, the scene of active bidding activity each month. The “oil jail” circa 1881 provides a cornerstone for the museum area, displaying historic structures and memorabilia including a hitching post of stone and iron. Just south of Palo Pinto on Highway 4 lies a picturesque cemetery.
