Cities and Towns in McMullen County, Texas
Founded in 1858, McMullen County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, McMullen County was formed from Atascosa County, Bexar County and Live Oak County. The city of Tilden is the county seat. With FIPS code of 311, McMullen County has a population of 608 and area of 1,113 square miles (2,883 km²).
List of all cities in McMullen County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Calliham, TX | 78007 | 361 |
| Tilden, TX | 78072 | 361 |
Major Cities and Towns in McMullen County, Texas
McMullen County, located in South Texas, is one of the state’s more rural counties, known for its rich history and vast ranching lands. With a population of fewer than 1,000 people, the towns and communities in McMullen County reflect its agricultural and historic roots. Below are the major cities and towns in McMullen County.
Tilden
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: 600 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 78072
- Latitude: 28.3571° N
- Longitude: 98.6575° W
City Location and History
Tilden, located in the central part of McMullen County, is the county seat and one of the area’s oldest towns. The town was established in the 1800s as a small farming and ranching community. It was named after Richard Tilden, a local landowner and one of the early settlers of the area. Tilden was initially a hub for cattle ranching, as the surrounding lands provided ideal grazing conditions for livestock. It also grew as a center for trade and commerce, supporting the needs of local farmers and ranchers.
In the early 20th century, Tilden saw some growth with the development of the oil and gas industry in the region, which contributed to the local economy. However, like many small rural towns, Tilden’s population has remained relatively small, and the town has maintained its tight-knit, rural character. The town is part of the larger Eagle Ford Shale region, known for its oil and gas reserves, though agriculture remains a key part of its economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tilden is served by the McMullen County Independent School District, which includes McMullen County High School, Tilden Elementary, and other educational facilities within the district. The district offers a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities, including sports and community events. McMullen County High School has a strong reputation for both academics and athletics, especially in basketball and football.
Landmarks in Tilden include the historic McMullen County Courthouse, which serves as the centerpiece of the town’s small downtown area. The courthouse, built in the early 20th century, is a symbol of the town’s history and is located near the town square. The nearby Nueces River offers recreational opportunities such as fishing and boating, attracting visitors who enjoy outdoor activities. Tilden also celebrates its cultural heritage with community events, including the annual McMullen County Fair, which highlights the region’s agricultural history.
Calliham
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: 200 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 78007
- Latitude: 28.5739° N
- Longitude: 98.5183° W
City Location and History
Calliham is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of McMullen County, near the banks of the Nueces River. The community’s history is closely tied to agriculture and ranching, as the fertile land and river provided resources for settlers in the 19th century. Calliham was established in the late 1800s and was named after a local landowner, Callihan. The area grew as a cattle ranching and farming center, with the Nueces River providing an essential water source for both livestock and irrigation.
Although Calliham never grew into a large town, it played an important role in supporting nearby communities through the early 20th century. The town remained relatively small, and its residents were primarily involved in agriculture. Today, Calliham has a very small population, with the town serving as a quiet rural community. Its proximity to the Nueces River and other natural resources makes it an attractive spot for residents and visitors who enjoy outdoor activities and the tranquility of rural life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Calliham is part of the McMullen County Independent School District, with students attending schools in the district. The school system offers education to children from the surrounding rural areas and includes the McMullen County High School, where students receive a well-rounded education with opportunities for extracurricular activities, including sports and arts programs.
Landmarks in Calliham are limited due to its small size, but the community is known for its natural beauty, especially the Nueces River, which runs along the edge of the town. The river offers residents and visitors opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking in the serene environment. Calliham is also near the Calliham Unit of the Choke Canyon State Park, which provides a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching. The park is a popular spot for locals who enjoy exploring the Texas Hill Country’s landscapes and wildlife.
Oakville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: 100 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 78060
- Latitude: 28.2350° N
- Longitude: 98.2883° W
City Location and History
Oakville is a tiny, rural community located in the southeastern part of McMullen County, about 15 miles south of Tilden. It was established in the late 1800s, primarily as an agricultural settlement. Oakville’s history is largely centered around the ranching and farming that dominated the area during its early years. The community grew slowly and remained small throughout the 20th century, with most residents involved in cattle ranching and farming.
Named for the oak trees that surround the area, Oakville became a stopping point for travelers heading west and served as a local center for trade and commerce. The town never developed into a major settlement, but its proximity to the Nueces River and its fertile land made it an important location for agriculture and livestock. Today, Oakville remains a quiet rural community, with a strong emphasis on ranching and farming.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oakville does not have its own school system; instead, students attend McMullen County ISD, where they are educated in the district’s larger schools in Tilden or nearby areas. The McMullen County school district provides education from elementary through high school, offering a well-rounded curriculum in academics, athletics, and other extracurricular activities.
As a small town, Oakville lacks significant commercial landmarks, but its natural beauty remains its most important feature. The area is known for its surrounding oak trees and picturesque landscapes, offering a peaceful setting for those who appreciate the Texas Hill Country. The nearby Nueces River provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as fishing and swimming, while the town is just a short drive away from the Choke Canyon State Park, which offers more extensive recreational options like camping, hiking, and birdwatching.
