Learn More About Gun Barrel City, Texas
Gun Barrel City, Texas is a small town located approximately 65 miles southeast of Dallas in Henderson County. It is considered part of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, and most of its population is affluent retirees looking for a slower pace of life. Residents love the lake environment, affording them plenty of opportunities for fishing and other activities. The city was founded in 1970 by a group of entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on the oil boom of the area. It is named after the distinctive rows of gun barrels strung along the sides of the old thoroughfare leading into town.
Within the city limits, there are several popular attractions. Cedar Creek Lake provides access to an abundance of watersports, while the new Gun Barrel City Town Park features a children’s playground, picnic pavilions, a fishing pond, and a walking trail. There are several golf courses and the Cedar Creek Country Club, which offers casual and fine dining, pool, lounges, and a marina.
Gun Barrel City is often considered a bedroom community for those who live and work outside the city, but many of the city's residents are employed in local industries such as retail, blue-collar services, and hospitality. There are several restaurants and bars, many with live music, for both locals and visitors alike. Gun Barrel City also boasts several parks, hiking trails, and outdoor activities such as birding and ATV trails.
The city is home to several local events and festivals, including the annual Cedar Creek Lake Catfish Festival and the Historic Creek County Festival. Local shops, galleries, and businesses line Main Street in the historic district, where you can find everything from antiques to handmade wooden furniture. With its scenic views and friendly atmosphere, Gun Barrel City is a great place to live, work, and play.