Hemphill County, Texas

Hemphill County sits in the northeastern corner of the Texas Panhandle, right along the Oklahoma border. Canadian, the county seat, is a lively community and an important cultural center of the High Plains region.

The county was named after John Hemphill, who served as the first chief justice of the Texas Supreme Court. Ranching remains a major part of life here, while the Canadian River carves a striking valley through the landscape and adds to the area’s natural beauty.

With wide-open skies and little light pollution, Hemphill County offers spectacular views of the night sky. The Gene Howe Wildlife Management Area is a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Oil and gas production also contribute to the local economy. In spring, colorful wildflowers spread across the countryside, adding even more beauty to this rugged and authentic part of Texas.

CategoryDetails
County NameHemphill County
County SeatCanadian
PopulationApproximately 3,600
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesCanadian
Interstates and HighwaysU.S. Highway 60, U.S. Highway 83
FIPS Code48-211
Total Area (Land and Water)912 square miles (906 sq mi land, 6 sq mi water)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Lipscomb County (North), Ellis County, Oklahoma (Northeast), Roger Mills County, Oklahoma (Southeast), Wheeler County (South), Roberts County (West), Gray County (Southwest)
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CST)
StateTexas
Coordinates35°50’N, 100°16’W
EtymologyNamed after John Hemphill, the first chief justice of the Texas Supreme Court
Major LandmarksCanadian River, Lake Marvin, Citadelle Art Foundation
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