Cities and Towns in Caldwell County, Texas
Founded in 1848, Caldwell County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Caldwell County was formed from Bastrop County and Gonzales County. The city of Lockhart is the county seat. With FIPS code of 55, Caldwell County has a population of 46,791 and area of 546 square miles (1,414 km²).
List of all cities in Caldwell County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Dale, TX | 78616 | 512/737 |
| Fentress, TX | 78622 | 512/737 |
| Joliet, TX | 78648 | 830 |
| Lockhart, TX | 78644 | 512/737 |
| Luling, TX | 78648 | 830 |
| Lytton Springs, TX | 78616 | 512/737 |
| Martindale, TX | 78655 | 512/737 |
| Maxwell, TX | 78656 | 512/737 |
| McMahan, TX | 78616 | 512/737 |
| Mendoza, TX | 78644 | 512/737 |
| Prairie Lea, TX | 78661 | 512/737 |
| Reedville, TX | 78656 | 512/737 |
| Seawillow, TX | 78644 | 512/737 |
| Stairtown, TX | 78648 | 830 |
| Tilmon, TX | 78616 | 512/737 |
Major Cities and Towns in Caldwell County, Texas
Lockhart
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 12.8 square miles
- Population: 14,000+
- Zip Codes: 78644
- Latitude: 29.8846° N
- Longitude: 97.6714° W
Location and History:
Lockhart, the county seat of Caldwell County, is located approximately 30 miles southeast of Austin and serves as a gateway to the Texas Hill Country. The city was founded in 1840 and named after German-born pioneer Chester W. Lockhart, who helped establish the area. Lockhart’s strategic location along the San Marcos River and its proximity to the Old San Antonio Road allowed it to develop into an important transportation hub. By the mid-1800s, Lockhart was a thriving agricultural community, particularly known for its cattle ranching and cotton farming. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the town’s economy, and Lockhart was officially incorporated in 1850. During the 20th century, the town expanded both agriculturally and residentially. Today, Lockhart is known for its well-preserved historic district, and its economy is still centered around agriculture, particularly the Texas barbecue industry. Lockhart has earned the title of the “Barbecue Capital of Texas,” with numerous nationally recognized barbecue restaurants drawing visitors from around the country.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Lockhart is served by the Lockhart Independent School District (ISD), which includes Lockhart High School, Lockhart Junior High School, and Bluebonnet Elementary School. The district is known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities, with a particular emphasis on agriculture and vocational education. Major landmarks in Lockhart include the Caldwell County Courthouse, a beautiful historic building constructed in 1894, and the Lockhart State Park, which offers hiking, swimming, and picnicking. The Lockhart Historic District features numerous well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including historic homes, churches, and businesses. Lockhart’s Barbecue Trail is a famous tourist attraction, with several renowned barbecue joints, including Black’s Barbecue, Kreuz Market, and Smitty’s Market. The town also hosts various annual events, including the Chisholm Trail Roundup, a celebration of the area’s cowboy heritage, and the Lockhart BBQ Festival, attracting food enthusiasts and travelers alike. With its rich history, culinary legacy, and friendly community, Lockhart is a unique and vibrant place in Central Texas.
Luling
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 3.5 square miles
- Population: 5,000+
- Zip Codes: 78648
- Latitude: 29.4082° N
- Longitude: 97.6718° W
Location and History:
Luling is located about 25 miles south of Lockhart and 50 miles southeast of Austin, in the southeastern part of Caldwell County. The town was founded in 1874 and named after Luling, a prominent businessman who invested in the railroad and its expansion through the area. The arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad spurred the growth of the town, which quickly became a key shipping and trade center for the region’s agricultural products, particularly cotton and livestock. In the early 20th century, Luling’s economy diversified with the discovery of oil in the region, transforming it into an important oil town for a short period. Today, Luling remains a small agricultural community, but it has become known for its oil history, the Zedler Mill, and its position on the San Marcos River, which offers recreational opportunities for fishing and boating. The town has preserved much of its historic charm, including several early 20th-century buildings and structures. Luling also holds a place in popular culture, being the site of the annual Watermelon Thump, one of Texas’ quirky and beloved festivals.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Luling is served by the Luling Independent School District (ISD), which includes Luling High School, Luling Middle School, and Luling Elementary School. The district is known for its focus on academics, athletics, and vocational training, as well as its strong community involvement. Major landmarks in Luling include the Zedler Mill, a historic gristmill that dates back to the 1800s and is now a museum. The Luling Historic District features a variety of 19th and early 20th-century buildings, some of which house local businesses and cultural institutions. The San Marcos River runs through the town, offering opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and other water activities, and the Luling City Park provides outdoor spaces for picnics, walking, and family gatherings. The Luling Watermelon Thump is a unique annual event celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage, featuring a watermelon-eating contest, parade, and live music. Luling also has a notable history as the home of one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in Texas, the Luling Drive-In, which continues to show films and attract visitors seeking a nostalgic experience. Luling offers a perfect blend of historical significance, rural charm, and community spirit.
Prairie Lea
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.8 square miles
- Population: 500+
- Zip Codes: 78661
- Latitude: 29.7864° N
- Longitude: 97.4681° W
Location and History:
Prairie Lea is a small, rural community located approximately 10 miles northeast of Luling and 25 miles south of Lockhart. The town is situated in the southeastern part of Caldwell County, Texas, and has a rich history dating back to the mid-1800s. Originally a farming and ranching settlement, Prairie Lea’s economy revolved around agriculture, with cotton, corn, and cattle being the primary crops and livestock raised in the area. The community was named after the local prairie, which once stretched across the region. Prairie Lea grew slowly over the years, with the establishment of local churches, schools, and small businesses. The town has remained relatively small but retains its agricultural roots and rural charm. The surrounding areas continue to be used for farming and ranching, with Prairie Lea serving as a center for local trade and community life. The town is also known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, with nearby ranches and farms providing scenic views of the Texas countryside.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Prairie Lea is part of the Prairie Lea Independent School District (ISD), which serves the local community with a small but dedicated school system. The district includes Prairie Lea High School and Prairie Lea Elementary School, which are known for their strong academic programs and tight-knit community. Major landmarks in Prairie Lea include the Prairie Lea Cemetery, which dates back to the 1800s and serves as a historic site for the town’s residents. The Caldwell County Historical Commission is active in preserving the area’s historical sites and promoting local heritage. Prairie Lea’s location near the San Marcos River provides recreational opportunities for fishing and outdoor activities. The town hosts community events, such as local fairs and gatherings, that highlight the town’s agricultural roots and close-knit community spirit. Although small, Prairie Lea offers residents a peaceful and quiet lifestyle in the heart of Texas’ rural countryside, where agriculture and tradition remain an integral part of the local culture.
