Parker County

Parker County, Texas

A Rich History and Thriving Communities

Parker County, Texas, is steeped in rich history and offers a vibrant and growing community for residents. Originally inhabited by the Kiowa and Comanche tribes, European settlers arrived in the late 1840s, following trails established by Native Americans along the Brazos River. The region saw an influx of settlers in the early 1850s, partly due to malaria outbreaks in surrounding counties and the development of the Butterfield Overland Mail route in 1855.

Under the leadership of Isaac Parker, 224 settlers petitioned for the creation of a new county, leading to the establishment of Parker County in December 1855 from portions of Bosque and Navarro counties. Weatherford was named the county seat, and by 1858, a two-story brick courthouse was constructed amid a growing settlement of cabins and tents. By this time, Parker County had 397 farms and ranches, boasting over 14,000 cattle and 4,000 sheep. Today, Parker County spans 902 square miles of rolling hills and fertile plains, with an elevation ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The area’s natural beauty, including mesquite, oak, walnut, pecan, and elm trees, is complemented by a moderate climate with an annual rainfall of approximately 32 inches.

Agriculture remains an integral part of Parker County’s economy, with over 3,200 farms and ranches spanning 486,658 acres. Cattle, horses, dairy, peaches, peanuts, and pecans continue to be staple agricultural products.

Why Parker County is a Great Place to Live  | Parker County offers the perfect blend of rural charm, modern conveniences, and outdoor recreation. Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with access to great schools, shopping, dining, and recreational activities, all while being close to the amenities of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The county's scenic beauty, strong sense of community, and thriving local businesses make it an ideal place to call home.

Cities and Communities of Parker County

Aledo | Aledo is a close-knit community known for its historic charm and strong school district. Established in the late 1800s, Aledo was originally called Parker Station before being renamed in 1882. The city is synonymous with high school football success, earning national recognition through its state championships.

• Aledo ISD: 7 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, 1 ninth-grade center, 1 high school.

• 5 city parks.

• Historic downtown with locally owned shops and restaurants.

• Home to Split Rail Golf Course and the upcoming Tiger Woods Bluejack Ranch Course.

Willow Park | Conveniently located at the intersection of I-20 and I-30, Willow Park offers easy access to Fort Worth while maintaining a high quality of life.

• Served by Aledo ISD and Weatherford ISD; home to Trinity Christian Academy.

• 8 minutes from Loop 820, 16 minutes from downtown Fort Worth.

• Features Squaw Creek and Oeste Ranch golf courses.

• The Shops at Willow Park, with dining, shopping, and live entertainment.

• Texas Health Neighborhood Care & Wellness Hospital.

Hudson Oaks | A rapidly growing, business-friendly city that prides itself on having no property tax.

• Prime location along I-20 & US Hwy 180, with easy access to Fort Worth and Weatherford.

• Home to Weatherford and Aledo ISDs.

• Splash Kingdom Water Park, an H-E-B grocery store, and expanding retail options.

• Lifestyle & Recreation:* Hudson Oaks is a hub for retail, dining, and entertainment, making it an attractive place for families and entrepreneurs.*

Weatherford | Known as the "Cutting Horse Capital of the World," Weatherford is a historic city just 30 minutes west of Fort Worth.

• Features the Parker County Courthouse, built in 1886.

• Home to Weatherford ISD, Peaster ISD, Aledo ISD, and Weatherford Christian Academy.

• Weatherford College serves over 7,700 students.

• Named the "Peach Capital of Texas," celebrated at the Parker County Peach Festival.

• Home of Chandor Gardens, a historic estate with lush gardens and artistic design.

• Lifestyle & Recreation:  Weatherford offers a perfect mix of historic charm and modern conveniences, with farmers' markets, community events, and a thriving equestrian culture.

Peaster | A small yet historically significant town originally known as Freemont, later renamed Peasterville in 1885.

• Peaster ISD serves approximately 1,170 students.

• Lifestyle & Recreation:  Peaster is ideal for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with a strong sense of community and top rated schools.

Brock | A rural community founded in 1876, Brock has deep agricultural roots and a strong sense of tradition.

• Brock ISD is a highly regarded school district.

• Home to Sugar Tree on the Brazos Golf Course and Canyon West Golf Course.

• Since 2002, Brock ISD has won 22 team State Championships, including gold medals in Mathematics, Girls Basketball, Boys Basketball, Football, Volleyball, Baseball, Softball, Team Tennis, Boys Track, and Boys Golf.  

Springtown | Springtown, situated along State Highway 199, blends historic charm with modern growth.

• Home to a 33-acre park featuring sports fields, sand volleyball courts, disc golf, and a jogging trail passing newly discovered dinosaur tracks.

• Community organizations such as the Lions Club and Optimist Club actively support local causes.

• Springtown Legends Museum preserves the city's rich heritage.

• Annual events include Christmas on the Square and the Wild West Festival.

Parker County is a dynamic region that embraces its history while continuing to grow and develop. Whether you're looking for a quiet ranch property, a family-friendly community, or easy access to Fort Worth, Parker County has something for everyone.