Cities and Towns in Zavala County, Texas
Founded in 1846, Zavala County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Zavala County was formed from Maverick County. The city of Crystal City is the county seat. With FIPS code of 507, Zavala County has a population of 9,534 and area of 1,299 square miles (3,364 km²).
List of all cities in Zavala County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | County | Area Code |
| Batesville, TX | 78829 | Zavala County | 830 |
| Crystal City, TX | 78839 | Zavala County | 830 |
| La Pryor, TX | 78872 | Zavala County | 830 |
Major Cities and Towns in Zavala County, Texas
1. Crystal City
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 3.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,500
- Zip Codes: 78839
- Latitude: 28.6786° N
- Longitude: 99.8303° W
Location and History:
Crystal City, the county seat of Zavala County, is located in South Texas, about 120 miles southwest of San Antonio. The town was established in the early 1900s as a ranching and agricultural center, and it quickly became known for its abundant water resources, which were ideal for irrigation. Crystal City earned the nickname “Spinach Capital of the World” in the mid-20th century due to its prominence as a spinach-growing region. The town was the site of the Spinach Festival, which celebrates its agricultural heritage and features a statue of Popeye the Sailor, a tribute to spinach’s cultural significance. During World War II, Crystal City was home to a major internment camp for Japanese-Americans and German-Americans, an event that remains an important part of its history. Over the years, the town has diversified its economy, though agriculture remains a major industry. Crystal City is also known for its close-knit community and its cultural heritage, with a majority Hispanic population that contributes to its vibrant traditions.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Crystal City is served by the Crystal City Independent School District, which includes Crystal City High School, Crystal City Junior High, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its academic programs and extracurricular activities, including strong sports teams. Major landmarks in Crystal City include the Popeye statue, a quirky and iconic feature that draws visitors to the town. The Spinach Festival, held annually, showcases local culture with food, music, and parades. The Crystal City Internment Camp Memorial commemorates the town’s role in World War II history and serves as an educational site. Additionally, the town offers access to outdoor activities at nearby Carrizo Springs and the Nueces River, providing opportunities for fishing, hunting, and birdwatching. The Crystal City Municipal Park offers recreational facilities, including sports fields and picnic areas, making it a popular gathering spot for residents.
2. La Pryor
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,700
- Zip Codes: 78872
- Latitude: 28.9453° N
- Longitude: 99.8470° W
Location and History:
La Pryor is a small town located in northern Zavala County, about 10 miles northwest of Crystal City and 90 miles southwest of San Antonio. The town was founded in the late 19th century by rancher Isaac Pryor, who named it after his family. La Pryor initially developed as a ranching community, with its economy based on cattle and agriculture. The introduction of irrigation systems in the early 20th century allowed the region to expand its farming operations, with crops like spinach, cotton, and pecans becoming staples of the local economy. La Pryor has maintained its agricultural roots over the years, and while it remains a small town, its residents take pride in their rural lifestyle and close-knit community. The town’s location along U.S. Highway 83 provides easy access to nearby cities like Uvalde and Crystal City, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the South Texas region.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
La Pryor is served by the La Pryor Independent School District, which operates La Pryor High School, La Pryor Junior High, and La Pryor Elementary. The district emphasizes academic success and offers extracurricular programs in sports and the arts. A notable landmark in La Pryor is the historic La Pryor Cemetery, which reflects the area’s early settlement history and honors the families who founded the community. The town is also surrounded by beautiful farmland and ranches, providing scenic views of the Texas countryside. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy access to the nearby Nueces River, which offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. La Pryor also hosts small community events, such as local festivals and agricultural fairs, which highlight the town’s traditions and heritage. While it may not have major commercial attractions, La Pryor’s peaceful rural atmosphere and strong community ties make it a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.
3. Batesville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200
- Zip Codes: 78829
- Latitude: 28.9550° N
- Longitude: 99.6175° W
Location and History:
Batesville is a small, unincorporated community in Zavala County, located about 20 miles northeast of Crystal City and near the border of Uvalde County. The town was founded in the late 19th century and named after Joshua Bates, an early settler and landowner. Batesville developed as a ranching and agricultural settlement, benefiting from the rich soils and water resources of the region. Early on, the town served as a supply center for surrounding ranches, and its economy was based on cattle and crops like cotton, corn, and watermelons. Over the years, Batesville remained a small but important agricultural community within Zavala County. Its rural character and proximity to larger towns like Crystal City and Uvalde have allowed it to maintain a peaceful, close-knit atmosphere while still offering access to nearby amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Batesville is served by the Crystal City Independent School District, with children typically attending schools in nearby Crystal City. The town itself has a small school for younger students, emphasizing the importance of education within the community. Landmarks in Batesville include the historic St. Paul’s Catholic Church, a simple yet beautiful structure that reflects the town’s deep religious and cultural traditions. The surrounding ranchlands and farms are an integral part of the local landscape, offering a glimpse into the agricultural life of South Texas. Batesville’s location near the Nueces River provides residents with opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, hunting, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. The town also hosts small community gatherings and events that bring residents together, celebrating their shared heritage and strong ties to the land. While Batesville remains small, its charm lies in its rich history and the sense of community that defines life in this rural part of Texas.