Jasper Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, natural attractions, hiking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Jasper, Texas with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Jasper

Jasper is a charming city situated in the heart of the Piney Woods of Deep East Texas. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant food and drink scene, Jasper has something for every traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Jasper is the perfect destination for you.

List of Places to Visit in Jasper

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jasper County Jail Museum: This historic museum is a must-visit, as it is housed inside the old Jasper County Jail, which was built in 1907. It offers visitors a chance to step back in time and learn about the area’s criminal justice system and the role the jail played in the history of East Texas.
  • Jasper Arboretum and Nature Center: This beautiful park is a great spot for nature lovers, as it boasts a wide variety of native plants, trees, and wildlife. It also features a nature center, picnic areas, and hiking trails.
  • Kirby-Hill House Museum: This restored Victorian home provides a glimpse into the life of a wealthy East Texas family during the late 1800s. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and view its well-preserved period furnishings.

Natural Attractions of Jasper: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Angelina National Forest: This expansive forest spans more than 153,000 acres and offers visitors a chance to hike, camp, fish, and bird-watch amid stunning natural scenery.
  • Sam Rayburn Reservoir: This beautiful lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and swimming. There are also several parks and campgrounds on its shores.
  • Martin Dies Jr. State Park: This 730-acre park boasts a wide range of outdoor activities, from fishing and boating to hiking and biking. It also offers cabins and campsites for overnight stays.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jasper

Hiking Routes

  • Sandy Creek Park Trail: This scenic trail winds through the forest and along the banks of Sandy Creek. It is a popular spot for bird-watching and offers great photo opportunities.
  • Little Sandy Trail: This moderately difficult 3.5-mile hike takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the Angelina National Forest.
  • B.A. Steinhagen Lake Nature Trail: This 1.3-mile hike takes you through wetlands and forests and provides ample opportunities to spot wildlife.

Biking Routes

  • Tiger Creek Trail: This challenging 10.5-mile mountain bike trail takes you through the heart of the Sam Houston National Forest.
  • Mill Creek Trail: This 4.8-mile bike trail offers scenic views of Lake Sam Rayburn and is suitable for all skill levels.
  • Dogwood Trail: This 3.5-mile bike trail winds through the forests of Martin Dies Jr. State Park and offers great photo opportunities.

Best Things to Do in Jasper: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking: There are several local outfitters that offer kayaking tours on the Angelina River.
  • Horseback Riding: Several local stables offer guided horseback tours through the forests and fields of Jasper.
  • Golfing: Jasper is home to several golf courses, including the Rayburn Country Golf Course and the Jasper Country Club.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jasper

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Jasper County Jail Museum and tour the Kirby-Hill House Museum
Day 2 Explore the Angelina National Forest and go hiking on one of the park’s numerous trails
Day 3 Visit the Jasper Arboretum and Nature Center and take a canoeing tour on Angelina River
Day 4 Take a horseback riding tour through the countryside or play a round of golf
Day 5 Visit the Sam Rayburn Reservoir and enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating
Day 6 Go bird-watching and hiking at Martin Dies Jr. State Park
Day 7 Spend the day in downtown Jasper, exploring local shops, restaurants, and cafes

Food and Drink Scene of Jasper

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barbecue: Texas-style barbecue is a must-try in Jasper, with several local restaurants serving up slow-cooked meats and savory sides.
  • Tex-Mex: Jasper is home to several excellent Tex-Mex restaurants, including Los Arcos and La Carreta.
  • Southern-style comfort food: Several local restaurants serve up classic Southern dishes, such as fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: No Southern meal is complete without a tall glass of sweet tea, and Jasper is no exception.
  • Craft Beer: Jasper is home to several local craft breweries, including Jasper Brewing Company and The Bearded Dogg.

Where to Stay in Jasper: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Holiday Inn Express: This budget-friendly hotel is located in downtown Jasper and offers modern amenities including an outdoor pool and fitness center.
  • Rayburn Country Resort: This luxury resort is located on the shores of Lake Sam Rayburn and boasts a wide range of amenities including golf courses, tennis courts, and a marina.
  • The Kirby-Hill House Bed and Breakfast: This historic inn offers five beautifully appointed rooms, each with its own unique charm and character.

What to Buy in Jasper: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts: Jasper is home to several local artisans who create unique handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and furniture.
  • Texas Souvenirs: Several local shops carry a wide range of Texas-themed souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, and coffee mugs.

Local Culture and Customs of Jasper

Jasper is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and visitors are encouraged to take part in local customs and traditions. Some key things to keep in mind include:

  • Respect for nature: Jasper is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment by staying on designated trails and properly disposing of waste.
  • Hospitality: Texans are known for their hospitality, and visitors can expect to be treated with warmth and kindness throughout their stay in Jasper.
  • Love of food and drink: Eating and drinking are important social activities in Jasper, and visitors are encouraged to try local cuisine and indulge in the area’s vibrant craft beer scene.

Best Time to Visit Jasper

The best time to visit Jasper is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful. Summer can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly and damp.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jasper

Do:

  • Do take time to explore Jasper’s many natural attractions, including its parks, forests, and lakes.
  • Do sample the local cuisine and craft beer.
  • Do be courteous and respectful to locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t make assumptions about the area’s cultural heritage or history.
  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, bug spray, and appropriate outdoor gear.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jasper

Jasper is a relatively safe city, but visitors should take common-sense precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking car doors and securing valuables.

Health in Jasper

Jasper is home to several medical clinics and hospitals, including the Jasper Memorial Hospital and the Jasper Primary Care Clinic.

Getting to Jasper: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jasper

  • George Bush Intercontinental Airport: Located in Houston, this airport is approximately 123 miles southwest of Jasper.
  • William P. Hobby Airport: Also located in Houston, this airport is approximately 138 miles southwest of Jasper.

Bus Stations Near Jasper

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: The Greyhound bus station in Jasper is located at 345 East Gibson Street.
  • Jefferson Lines: The Jefferson Lines bus station is located approximately 20 miles north of Jasper in Woodville.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Several rental car companies operate in Jasper, including Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis.
  • Private Transportation: Private shuttle services, such as SuperShuttle and ExecuCar, are also available.

How to Get Around in Jasper

While having a car is the easiest way to get around Jasper, several local taxi and shuttle services also operate in the city.

Where to Go Next from Jasper: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lake Charles, LA

Located approximately 85 miles southeast of Jasper, Lake Charles is known for its vibrant food and drink scene, cultural attractions, and scenic beauty.

Houston, TX

Located approximately 118 miles southwest of Jasper, Houston is a sprawling metropolis that boasts diverse cultural attractions, shopping and dining venues, and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Jasper, Texas may be a small town, but it offers big experiences for travelers. With its vibrant cultural scene, natural beauty, and charming hospitality, Jasper is the perfect destination for those looking for a getaway that is both relaxing and adventurous.