Culberson County, Texas
Culberson County lies in the far western corner of Texas, where rugged mountains rise dramatically from the Chihuahuan Desert. The Guadalupe Mountains are the county’s defining feature, including Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas and a major destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Van Horn, the county’s primary community, serves as an important stop along Interstate 10 for travelers crossing West Texas. Despite its small size, the town offers attractions such as the Clark Hotel Museum, where visitors can learn more about the area’s frontier history.
The county’s remote location and limited development create exceptionally dark skies, making it an excellent destination for stargazing. The nearby McDonald Observatory adds to the region’s appeal for astronomy enthusiasts.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Culberson County |
| County Seat | Van Horn |
| Population | Approximately 2,200 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Van Horn, Lobo |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 10, U.S. Highway 90 |
| FIPS Code | 48-109 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 3,813 square miles (3,812 sq mi land, 1 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Eddy County, New Mexico (North), Reeves County (East), Jeff Davis County (South), Hudspeth County (West), Otero County, New Mexico (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Mountain Time Zone (MST) |
| State | Texas |
| Coordinates | 31°30’N, 104°29’W |
| Etymology | Named after David B. Culberson, a lawyer and Confederate veteran who served in the U.S. Congress |
| Major Landmarks | Guadalupe Mountains National Park, McKittrick Canyon, El Capitan Peak |
