Rains County: Discover Lakes and History

Between Lake Tawakoni and Lake Fork

Rains County is the gateway to Lake Tawakoni in the west and Lake Fork in the east. Lake Tawakoni lies in Rains, Van Zandt, and Hunt counties; its reservoir also floods land in Rains County. Public and private facilities along the shores offer swimming, boating, picnicking, fishing, and duck hunting. There is a specific landmark to help you find your way on the water: a boat ramp and adjacent marina are on the Lake Fork Creek arm of Lake Tawakoni, at the north end of the FM 2946 bridge.

Lake Fork is one of the leading waters in the United States for trophy bass fishing. The lakes therefore offer different points of reference for planning: Lake Tawakoni is known for its range of shoreline activities, while Lake Fork stands out for its trophy bass fishing.

Emory’s History and Historic Sites

The history of Rains County can also be traced through individual sites. The Rains County Courthouse opened in 1909. It was built around a steel safe that had survived the 1908 fire. The grounds around the courthouse host community celebrations, festivals, commemorations, and parades.

Rains County was named in honor of Emory Rains (1800–1878). The historic marker commemorating him is located in Emory City Cemetery on N. Alexander Street. Emory United Methodist Church dates back to 1867 and was originally located in Springville, in Wood County. Its salvaged bell still hangs in the bell tower of the present-day church and remains in use. A marker for Isaac Newton Gresham documents the founding of the Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America with an initial group of ten neighbors.

Emory Heritage Park is home to the Luckett House, a restored and furnished 1912 Texas farmhouse. The park is located off Highway 69, next to the Rains County Public Library in Emory. If you plan to visit the park, check current visiting arrangements in advance.

Archaeology and Regional Orientation

The Gilbert Site offers a glimpse into a much earlier period. It is in northern Rains County near the upper reaches of the Lake Fork Reservoir, but it is not a public attraction and is located on land leased for deer hunting. Archaeological finds suggest that the site may have played an important role in the trade of furs, guns, and horses in the mid-18th century. The site yielded a large collection of French trade goods; it is the only carefully investigated Indigenous site in Texas known to have yielded such a collection.

Farm Road 47 is designated as part of the Texas Lakes Trail in Rains County and passes the Iron Bridge Dam south of Point. This designated route adds a specific point of reference for route planning alongside the lakes and historic sites.

Discover More Destinations

Emory, San Patricio County, Eastland County, Matagorda County, Kimble County, Oldham, Dimmit, Jefferson

For the main travel overview: Texas.