Culture
David Crockett Spring
You’re probably wondering how this town is connected to the Texas hero, Davy Crockett, and this spring in Brewer Park is the place to find out. Back in the 1800s, Davy stopped in town to visit a friend, and on his way he stopped at this very spring to get a drink of water. Historic! And thus the town was renamed…
Caddo Mounds State Historic Site
Visit this site that was once a bustling village of native Caddo Indians, living in little grass houses just like the one recreated by Caddo Indians. Fun Fact: the word “Texas” came from the Caddo Indians word for “welcome.”
Mission San Francisco de Tejas
This mission reconstructed by the CCC is a loose representation of the Mission San Francisco de Tejas, the first Spanish mission in Texas established in 1690. The original mission was only in the area for 4 years before it was relocated to San Antonio as Mission Esperada.
Camp Street Cafe & Store
The best place to dive into the music history of this town is at this little joint where Lightning Hopkins used to play for tips before he struck it big as a blues artist. Stop in for a show, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see owner Pip Gillette do some pickin’ on the banjo and play the rib bones.
Mary Allen College
In town, you’ll find the ruins of Mary Allen College, the first women’s college for African Americans in the state. It’s a cool sight, and an even cooler significant moment in Texas history.
Food
Moosehead Cafe
At first glance, this place doesn’t look like much, but it’s a local favorite. Owned by the mayor, this cafe is decorated with tons of (you guessed it!) Moose heads and serves up a mean patty melt. Don’t forget to order the fried pickles, too!
Rosemary's Hilltop Kitchen
For a down home atmosphere and a family-potluck-style buffet, look no further than Rosemary’s. Each day is a new special, but you can bet it’ll be finger-licking — especially when you wash it down with a homemade pie for dessert!
Outdoors
El Camino Real
This hiking trail might just be one of the most significant in Texas. Also called the “King’s Highway” or the “Old San Antonio Road” this is the pathway taken by all the Texas heroes (we’re talking Austin, Bowie, Crockett) that once led from Louisiana to Mexico. This is the only remaining section and it’s a pretty awesome hike!
Davy Crockett National Forest
One of the biggest nearby attractions is the Davy Crockett National Forest, which is 160,000 acres of incredibly beautiful East Texas nature. Spend some time wandering through the towering pines or paddling the Four C National Recreational Trail.
