Oakwood, Texas is best described as a very small town with a very big heart. It’s that big heart, however, that builds the character of this town. It’s located on State Highway 79, just three miles west of Trinity River in the northeastern corner of Leon County.
You can describe the families living here as close-knit, since just about everyone knows everyone. The town has just about 500 people. Even though the town is small, it has a rich history, and there is still plenty to do in and around the area.
History of Oakwood, TX
History tells us that the town was first established as a ten-mile station on the International-Great Northern Railroad in 1870. The town grew with the railroad, too, becoming the region’s main shipping center. Cotton was the main crop grown by residents of Oakwood. At one point, the town had 3 cotton gins and that was a big part of the town’s population growth. Oakwood ultimately got its name from the abundant oak trees in the area. The town was formerly called “Oakwoods” but the ‘s’ was dropped from the name as time went on.
Things to Do in Oakwood, TX
Oakwood, however small, is an inviting place to stop and enjoy some leisurely tourism. Located near the river and directly on Highway 79, many people traverse the town in search of good places to eat and end up visiting with the friendly locals they encounter along the way. There’s also many great activities and events around Oakwood in small towns nearby such as Palestine and Buffalo.
Stop by the Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot in nearby Palestine, TX, and take a ride on the railroad. This historic tourist railroad offers steam train rides from Rusk, TX to Palestine, TX in 1920’s-themed passenger cabins. The scenic train ride is a perfect family-friendly activity, and with each train ride purchase a lunch is included. They have special-themed events all year such as the “Polar Express Train” around the holidays. The “Polar Express Train” event is popular for kids, and for fans of the classic Christmas film too. For history buffs, or for those who just like trains, this historic railroad is sure to impress.
For those that love tasting wine, or just want to make an escape to the country, the Sabor a Pasion Estate and Vineyard is an excellent place to do this. This vineyard not only produces their own wine, they also have a top-rated, reservations-only, on-site restaurant that has some of the best, most unique food around for miles. However, the restaurant does not serve alcohol, so it’s BYOB, or purchase a bottle from their vineyard. This vineyard has a bed and breakfast for guests, and has a wedding reception venue too. This estate is a must-see when passing through Oakwood or nearby Palestine, TX.
If you are new to town or passing through, be sure to check out the city council, railroad station, or even the new Zipps liquor that opened in Oakwood this year. Have some activities you think we should share that are going on in Oakwood, TX? Jump onto the City of Oakwood’s Facebook page to share with the whole community.
