Rusk is located in the piney woods and rolling hills of northeastern Texas, 142 miles east of Dallas and 90 miles west of Shreveport, Louisiana. This small town of 48,000 offers a quaint town square that is utilized for community events throughout the year. Several recreational opportunities are available in and around the town.
Where to Camp
The award winning, new KOA campground in Rusk features several camping options. Six campsites designated for tents only are located in a four-acre forest at the eastern edge of the campground for a fee of $24.69 per night, as of 2010. Sixty RV campsites, accommodating RVs up to 100 feet in length, are available with full hook-ups for $39.89 per night, as of 2010. Restrooms with hot showers are located on-site. Advance reservations can be made online at the KOA website or by phone at 800-562-4143.
Camping is also available at the Texas State Railroad State Park at the Rusk Depot Campground. There are 32 full hook-up sites available for $25 per night and 15 tent sites available for $18 per night, as of 2010. All campsites are located in a wooded area and contain a fire ring, grill and picnic table. Restroom and hot shower facilities are available in the campground. Advance reservations are required by phone at 888-987-2461.
Campground Amenities
The Rusk KOA campground features a large salt water swimming pool suitable for lap swimming that is open from May through mid-October. Laundry facilities are also available, as well as a horseshoe pit, activity field, club room, gift shop and free WiFi access.
The Texas State Railroad Rusk Depot Campground features playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball goals, horseshoes, shuffleboard, volleyball and a 1/4-mile nature trail. No fishing license is required to fish in the park's 15-acre lake. A campground store is located on-site offering firewood, ice, drinks, and sports rental equipment in case you forgot to bring your own.
Hiking/Biking
Grab your hiking shoes or your bike to explore the rolling hills of Rusk. Riding your bike or walking through either campground can also give you a great workout. The Texas State Railroad Rusk Depot Campground offers a hiking and biking trail around the park lake and a 1/4-mile designated nature trail between the campsite area and the lake.
Attractions
Classic country dances are held on the second Saturday of every month at the Rusk civic center. Play a round or two of golf at the Rusk public golf course or visit two drive-through wild animal parks. Visit in May to attend the Rusk Fair on the Square or in October for the Pioneer Heritage Festival.
Historical Steam Train
Take a 4 ½ hour ride on a steam train through the east Texas countryside on the historical Texas state railroad that has been in operation since 1881. Seating in an open air car is available for $40.50 per adult and $23 per child, as of 2010. Seating in a climate-controlled car with closed windows is also available for $43.50 per adult and $25 per child, as of 2010, and train enthusiasts aged 18 and older can reserve a seat in the engine cab for $225. Advance reservations can be made online at the Texas state railroad website. A $5 parking fee is charged at the depot, as of 2010.
Member Comments