Where is Gun Barrel City?
Gun Barrel City is a small town located in the state of Texas, United States. It is situated in the southeastern part of the state, approximately 45 miles (72 kilometers) southeast of Dallas.
Location
Gun Barrel City is situated in Henderson County, Texas, in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. The town is nestled in the rolling hills of East Texas, surrounded by picturesque countryside and scenic lakes.
GPS Coordinates
For those who prefer to navigate using GPS coordinates, Gun Barrel City’s location is:
- Latitude: 32.3433° N
- Longitude: 96.1239° W
Distance from Major Cities
Gun Barrel City is conveniently located near several major cities, making it an attractive option for those who want to enjoy the benefits of small-town living while still being close to urban amenities. Here are the approximate distances from Gun Barrel City to some major cities:
| City | Distance (miles) | Distance (kilometers) |
|---|---|---|
| Dallas | 45 | 72 |
| Fort Worth | 60 | 97 |
| Tyler | 25 | 40 |
| Waco | 80 | 129 |
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Gun Barrel City was approximately 6,300 people. The town has a total area of 7.1 square miles (18.4 square kilometers), with a population density of around 900 people per square mile (347 people per square kilometer).
History
Gun Barrel City was founded in 1959 and was named after the Gun Barrel City Gun Club, which was established in the area in the 1950s. The town was incorporated in 1960 and has since grown steadily, attracting residents and visitors alike with its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and small-town charm.
Points of Interest
Gun Barrel City is surrounded by natural beauty, with several lakes, parks, and nature reserves in the area. Here are some popular points of interest in and around Gun Barrel City:
- Lake Athens: A 1,700-acre lake with opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Lake Halbert: A 450-acre lake with fishing and boating opportunities.
- Purtis Creek State Park: A 1,582-acre park with hiking trails, camping facilities, and opportunities for fishing and boating.
- Davy Crockett National Forest: A 100,000-acre forest with hiking trails, camping facilities, and opportunities for hunting and fishing.
- Gun Barrel City Gun Club: A shooting range and club that offers target shooting, hunting, and firearms training.
Economy
Gun Barrel City’s economy is diverse, with a mix of retail, service, and manufacturing industries. Some of the major employers in the area include:
- Retail: Grocery stores, hardware stores, and other retail establishments.
- Healthcare: Medical centers, hospitals, and clinics.
- Manufacturing: Companies that produce goods such as food products, machinery, and automotive parts.
- Tourism: Hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses.
Education
Gun Barrel City is served by the Gun Barrel City Independent School District, which operates several schools in the area. There are also several private schools and higher education institutions in the surrounding area.
Conclusion
Gun Barrel City is a charming small town located in the heart of East Texas. With its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and small-town charm, it’s an attractive option for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re looking for a place to retire, start a business, or simply enjoy the great outdoors, Gun Barrel City is definitely worth considering.
