Your complete guide to the friendliest little lake town in East Texas — on the eastern shore of Cedar Creek Lake, just 55 miles from Dallas.
Discover the City Explore the LakeFrom the water to the history to daily life, here's your starting point.
Over 220 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, and lakeside living — the heart of the community and the reason the town exists.
On the water →Parks and recreation, local dining, shopping, and a full calendar of events for visitors and residents alike.
Plan your day →A Certified Retirement Community with no city property tax. Schools, government, and relocation resources in one place.
Make it home →Incorporated in 1969 out of the old Bethel Community, Gun Barrel City took its name from Gun Barrel Lane — now State Highway 198 — a road locals said ran "straight as a gun barrel." The town wears the name proudly, right down to its slogan: We Shoot Straight With You.
Festivals, markets, and lake-town gatherings throughout the year.
Local vendors, food, and live music on the waterfront.
Anglers compete across the lake's 220 miles of shoreline.
Marking the city's incorporation with a community festival.