Why Stop In Palo Pinto County???

Organized in 1857 and celebrating our sesquicentennial next year, the Spanish name Palo Pinto means “painted pole” or “painted stick,” probably named for Indian markings seen by the early explorers. A drive down Farm Road 4 in the fall may give a better interpretation. The turning leaves of pecan, oak, cottonwood, mesquite, elm, cedar and hackberry trees show a colored image that the early visitors may have described as a painted world of uncommon beauty. Ask the bikers who know this route.
From its northwest corner where the Brazos River turns into Possum Kingdom Lake to the eastern county line, Palo Pinto County is blessed with many miles of spectacular river scenery. Legend says that the river was named by a Spanish priest after he and others were saved from Indian attack by a sudden rise of flood water. His name, “Los Brazos de Dios,” means “The Arms of God.” It is a fitting description.
From Possum Kingdom Lake, drive south below the dam across a bridge designed to be flooded. Great limestone cliffs offer sanctuary for hawks, buzzards, and maybe an occasional eagle. You can fish for bass or catfish. Hunters come for the deer, dove, quail and wild turkey. There’s Lake Palo Pinto and Lake Mineral Wells to lure lake lovers to their shores. Don’t forget to see the state parks