The Gatesville Downtown Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its 87 properties date from the late 19th century to the architecture of the early 1970s. The Coryell County Courthouse by W. C. Dodson is at the center of twelve blocks of commercial architecture in the district.

Built in 1897 from limestone and red sandstone blocks, the courthouse is an outstanding example of the Victorian Second Empire style. It connects a single landmark with the broader historic center of Gatesville: the building stands at the heart of the district, whose properties span a wide period of time.

Fort Gates tells another chapter of the area's history. Built after the Mexican-American War of 1846 to 1848, it was the last in a line of fortified blockhouses in Texas. It also served as the starting point for settlement of the surrounding area. Another historic trace is a branch of the Chisholm Trail, which ran through Coryell County.

Raby Park is also part of the historical context of the Downtown Historic District. It has a historic bathhouse and recreational facilities. The Gatesville Walking Trail runs between Raby Park and Faunt Le Roy Park, connecting the two on a scenic route. Visitors interested in parks and history will find two distinct aspects of the cityscape here: historic park features and a trail between two parks.

Prairie, Rivers, and Mother Neff State Park

Coryell County consists of plateaus and grassland in the Grand Prairie region. Its two main waterways are the Leon River and Cowhouse Creek. Mother Neff State Park sits on the shaded banks of the Leon River and offers another landscape perspective for a visit to the county. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built the park's roads, concession building, and a tower.

A 46-mile stretch of the Leon River lies in Coryell County, between Gatesville and Lake Belton. There is usually enough water for recreational activities, but water levels and weather affect conditions. Recreation can begin at the U.S. 84 bridge near the western city limits of Gatesville. The stretch's length and endpoints, as well as a possible starting point, can help you plan an activity.

Visitor Information

Gatesville is served by U.S. Highway 84 and State Highway 36. Mother Neff State Park is 15 miles northwest of Temple on Texas 36; from there, continue six miles north on Texas 236. Check road conditions before setting out. Gatesville is about 23 miles from the park and offers another place to learn about county history at the Coryell County Museum & Historical Center.

The Coryell County Museum & Historical Center is open Wednesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Spurfest is held annually on the third Saturday in September. Check the opening hours and event date before your trip to make sure they suit your visit.

Whether or not you are staying in Coryell County, Hills of Cove Golf Course in Copperas Cove offers an 18-hole, par-71 course in hilly terrain. The facility also has a lighted driving range.

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