Wise County, Texas
Wise County lies just northwest of Fort Worth, where many say the West begins. Decatur, the county seat, is home to an impressive historic courthouse that stands out as one of the area’s landmarks.
The LBJ National Grasslands cover a large part of the county, giving hikers, horseback riders, and outdoor enthusiasts plenty of room to explore. At the same time, growth from the Dallas-Fort Worth area is steadily moving in, with new neighborhoods and housing developments appearing across the county.
Even with all the growth, plenty of wide-open land remains. Ranching continues to be an important industry, while natural gas drilling also contributes to the economy. Local residents take pride in their cowboy roots and the traditions that have shaped Wise County. They’re determined to keep that heritage alive.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Wise County |
| County Seat | Decatur |
| Population | Approximately 40,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Decatur, Bridgeport, Chico, Rhome, Alvord |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 380, State Highway 114 |
| FIPS Code | 48-497 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 921 square miles (920 sq mi land, 1 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Montague County (North), Cooke County (Northeast), Denton County (East), Tarrant County (Southeast), Parker County (South), Jack County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Texas |
| Coordinates | 33°14’N, 97°35’W |
| Etymology | Named after Alexander Wise, a U.S. Congressman |
| Major Landmarks | Wise County Courthouse, Lake Bridgeport |
