Van Zandt: Nature, History and Events

Purtis Creek State Park is a specific starting point for nature and recreation plans in Van Zandt. It covers 1,582.4 acres in Henderson and Van Zandt counties. Fishing for largemouth bass is one of the park’s activities, along with hiking and cycling on the Wolfpen Hike and Bike Trail.

Nature and Outdoor Activities at Purtis Creek State Park

The Wolfpen Hike and Bike Trail runs for 4.1 miles through the park. Those who prefer to take part in a guided program can also find guided hikes there. This gives you the option of a named trail with a specific length or a separate hiking activity. The trail length is a useful planning measure; how much time you allow depends on your own plans. Since trail conditions and guided hike times can change, it’s a good idea to check the latest information before your visit.

In Van, McMillan Park offers a different kind of recreation. A 9-hole disc golf course is located around the park at 712 E. Main Street. There are two sets of pads at each tee, making an 18-hole round possible. The park also has a lake with a kayak ramp. Disc golf and the kayak ramp therefore offer different options for planning, without requiring you to focus your stay on just one activity.

History and Architecture

The Van Zandt County Courthouse was built in 1937 with funding from the Public Works Administration. It was the sixth building to serve as the Van Zandt County courthouse and features elements of Art Deco and Moderne architecture. These two style names give architecture enthusiasts specific features to look for when viewing the building.

The historic district of Wills Point also offers several connections to local history: its features include brick streets, a railroad depot museum and the original Wills family log cabin. In Edgewood, the Church in the Wildwood represents a religious heritage spanning more than 100 years. Together, these places showcase different historical themes—from architecture and railroad history to religious heritage.

The annual arts and crafts festival in Edom has its own origins, beginning in 1972. The festival was started by craftspeople who settled in Edom in the 1960s and worked in ceramics, silver jewelry, glassware, macramé and leather goods. The Van Zandt County Fair features livestock shows, a carnival and rodeo.

Events and Visitor Planning

In Van, the Van Oil Festival is held every year on the third Saturday in October at Van City Park. It’s a family event celebrating Van’s history. Check the current date before your trip. The annual Edgewood Heritage Festival is scheduled for 2026 on Saturday, November 14, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in downtown Edgewood. If a particular festival is the reason for your trip, you can plan your visit around its date.

The Van Area Oil and Historical Museum is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Guided tours and group visits may be available upon request. Check the opening hours before your visit, and inquire in advance about a tour or group visit.

Discover more destinations: Wills Point, Fruitvale, Rains County, Bastrop, Ochiltree County, Comal, Travis, Tom Green.

View the main travel overview: Texas.