Cities and Towns in Culberson County, Texas

by countryaah · Published November 11, 2022 · Updated December 7, 2024

Founded in 1911, Culberson County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Culberson County was formed from El Paso County. The city of Van Horn is the county seat. With FIPS code of 109, Culberson County has a population of 2,193 and area of 3,813 square miles (9,876 km²).

List of all cities in Culberson County, TX alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Lamesa, TX	79331	806
Welch, TX	79377	806

Major Cities and Towns in Culberson County, Texas

Culberson County is located in the far west of Texas, bordering New Mexico to the northwest. The county is part of the Trans-Pecos region, characterized by its rugged desert landscapes, mountains, and high desert plains. The county was established in 1911 and named after David B. Culberson, a prominent Texas politician. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Apache and Comanche. It later became part of the Apache Wars territories and saw the rise of ranching and mining industries. Today, Culberson County is sparsely populated, with a small but resilient community that thrives in the harsh desert environment. The county has vast swaths of public land, including portions of Big Bend National Park, and is known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and proximity to the Chihuahuan Desert. Van Horn is the county seat and largest town, serving as a gateway to both Big Bend and the Guadalupe Mountains. Though relatively isolated, Culberson County’s history and culture are tied to the Western frontier, making it a fascinating area for visitors and historians alike.

Van Horn

General Information

Area: 1,107 square miles
Population: Approximately 2,000 (2023 estimate)
Zip Code: 79855
Latitude/Longitude: 31.0394° N / 104.8520° W

City Location and History

Van Horn, the county seat of Culberson County, is located in the westernmost part of Texas, near the New Mexico border. It lies at the crossroads of Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 90, making it an important transportation hub for travelers passing through the region. The town was originally established in 1881 as a railroad stop along the Southern Pacific Railway, which linked it to larger cities like El Paso and San Antonio. Over time, Van Horn became a center for ranching, mining, and agriculture. The region’s harsh desert climate limited agricultural success, but the town prospered due to its strategic location along the transportation routes and its connection to nearby military installations. During the 20th century, Van Horn became known for its proximity to Big Bend National Park and the Guadalupe Mountains, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. As an isolated town in a remote part of Texas, Van Horn has maintained a small but steady population, with an economy primarily based on tourism, transportation, and local services. Its scenic views, historical sites, and role as a gateway to other major Texas destinations make Van Horn an important landmark in the state.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Van Horn is served by the Van Horn Independent School District (VHISD), which offers education from elementary through high school. The district includes Van Horn High School, known for its academic programs and extracurricular activities. The town also hosts Van Horn Elementary School and Van Horn Middle School, which are central to the community’s educational offerings. For higher education, students typically travel to nearby cities such as El Paso for college opportunities. As for landmarks, Van Horn boasts several points of historical and natural interest. The Culberson County Historical Museum showcases the region’s history, with exhibits on the early railroad era, Native American culture, and the pioneer period. The Old Spanish Trail runs through Van Horn, marking the historic trade route from Mexico to California. The town is also known for being a stopover for travelers heading to Big Bend National Park or the Guadalupe Mountains, where visitors can explore the desert landscape and enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing. The Van Horn Water Tank, a prominent local landmark, is an iconic reminder of the town’s railroad heritage. The annual Desert Heritage Festival celebrates the region’s unique culture, with music, food, and arts.