Cities and Towns in Edwards County, Texas

Founded in 1858, Edwards County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Edwards County was formed from Bexar County. The city of Rocksprings is the county seat. With FIPS code of 137, Edwards County has a population of 1,438 and area of 2,120 square miles (5,491 km²).

List of all cities in Edwards County, TX alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Barksdale, TX 78828 830
Rocksprings, TX 78880 830
Telegraph, TX 76883 325
Vance, TX 78828 830

Major Cities and Towns in Edwards County, Texas

Edwards County is located in central-western Texas and is known for its rugged landscapes and scenic views, including parts of the Hill Country and Edwards Plateau. The county, established in 1858, is sparsely populated and home to some of Texas’ most natural and untouched environments. It is named after George W. Edwards, a Texas ranger and legislator. The county seat is Rocksprings, and it is known for its role in ranching, especially in the sheep and goat industries. Below are the key cities and towns within Edwards County.


Rocksprings

General Information

  • Area: 1.5 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,300 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Code: 78880
  • Latitude/Longitude: 30.0764° N / 100.2280° W

City Location and History

Rocksprings is located in the heart of Edwards County, nestled in the foothills of the Texas Hill Country, approximately 90 miles west of San Antonio. The town was founded in the 1850s and was named after a nearby spring, which historically provided water for early settlers and travelers. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Rocksprings became a hub for ranching, particularly sheep and goat farming, and it remains a part of the state’s important agricultural regions. The town also became known for its rich history in the wool industry. Rocksprings was incorporated in the early 1900s and has managed to retain its small-town charm, with a population that has remained relatively steady for several decades. The town’s economy today is still driven by ranching and agriculture, but tourism has also become increasingly important, due to the area’s proximity to natural parks and outdoor activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Rocksprings is served by the Rocksprings Independent School District, which includes Rocksprings High School and Rocksprings Elementary School. The schools are known for their small class sizes and personalized education. One of the town’s notable landmarks is Devil’s Sinkhole State Natural Area, a massive vertical cavern that is home to thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats that emerge at sunset in a spectacular display. The Rocksprings Museum offers visitors a look at the history of the town and the surrounding area, including the ranching heritage and Native American artifacts. The town’s historic downtown district features a number of early 20th-century buildings that reflect its agricultural past. Rocksprings City Park provides outdoor recreational activities such as picnicking, hiking, and nature watching, making it a popular gathering spot for both residents and tourists.


Barksdale

General Information

  • Area: 1.0 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 300 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Code: 78828
  • Latitude/Longitude: 29.9499° N / 100.0424° W

City Location and History

Barksdale is located about 25 miles northeast of Rocksprings, in the northeastern part of Edwards County, Texas. Founded in the late 19th century, the town was named after a prominent local family, the Barksdales, who settled in the area. It began as a small farming and ranching community, and like much of Edwards County, Barksdale’s economy was historically driven by agriculture. In the early 20th century, Barksdale saw a small boom due to its location along key trade routes, but the town remained a quiet and modest settlement. Over time, it became known for its proximity to outdoor recreation areas, including several ranches and natural reserves. Today, Barksdale is a quiet town that maintains a tight-knit community, with much of its local economy still tied to ranching and small-scale agriculture.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Barksdale is part of the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District, with students attending schools in nearby Uvalde, which is about 30 miles to the south. The town’s schools are part of a rural district that emphasizes agricultural studies and community involvement. One of the landmarks near Barksdale is the Barksdale Community Park, which offers local residents space for outdoor recreation, picnics, and social events. The town’s proximity to the Frio River and nearby natural reserves makes it a destination for visitors interested in fishing, hiking, and bird watching. The Frio Canyon area, located just outside of Barksdale, is also a popular spot for camping and outdoor activities. Although small in population, Barksdale offers a relaxed country atmosphere and is a place for those seeking a slower pace of life while enjoying the natural beauty of central Texas.


Montell

General Information

  • Area: 1.2 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 50 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Code: 78855
  • Latitude/Longitude: 29.8911° N / 100.0451° W

City Location and History

Montell is located in the western part of Edwards County, about 20 miles northwest of Rocksprings, near the headwaters of the Frio River. The town was founded in the late 19th century, and like many small Texas towns, it started as a ranching and farming community. Montell was named after the Montell family, who were early settlers in the area and contributed significantly to the town’s development. Although it is one of the smallest towns in Edwards County, Montell played an important role in the region’s early cattle industry. Today, the town is a quiet, rural community with few services, though it remains a gateway to some of the more remote and picturesque areas of Texas Hill Country.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Montell is served by the Rocksprings Independent School District, with students typically attending schools in Rocksprings. The district is known for its small size, ensuring close relationships between teachers and students, but educational resources are limited compared to larger districts. Montell’s most significant landmark is its proximity to the Frio River, which provides excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and tubing. The town’s location near Hill Country State Natural Area also offers scenic views, hiking trails, and wildlife watching. The area surrounding Montell is known for its beautiful landscapes, featuring rugged terrain, springs, and clear, flowing rivers. Outdoor enthusiasts frequent the region for camping, hunting, and wildlife photography, making the town a popular stop for those traveling to explore the Hill Country.