Whether you are looking for a vacation destination off the beaten path or to stay for a lifetime, you will find Hemphill, Texas one of the most welcoming and relaxing communities in the state. The City of Hemphill invites you to visit our city, tucked away in the scenic Pineywoods of East Texas. Hemphill was founded in 1858, incorporated in October 1927, and is the seat of Sabine County.

Today, Hemphill is a center for lumber and a major gateway to the immense Toledo Bend Reservoir; therefore, it is a mecca for fishing, hunting, forest/nature, and water related activities. The Bassmaster Elite Series designated Toledo Bend Reservoir, on the Louisiana-Texas border, as a renowned fishery. B.A.S.S/Bassmaster Magazine announced the lake earned the top spot on Bassmaster’s 100 Best Bass Lakes list in 2015 and 2016, attracting amateur and professional fisherman from around the globe.

The Sabine River Authority of Texas has begun developing the Sabinetown Park recreational facility, a world class fishing tournament venue, on Toledo Bend Reservoir. This facility will attract bass tournaments and other types of recreational activities. The City and County expects this park to expand visitor traffic, business development, and tourism.

As a city and county, we take pride in our community. We are rich in Texas history and home to the Sabine National Forest. We are especially proud of our friendly, altruistic residents. For example, during the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster, our citizens banded together to provide aid to recovery workers. The City of Hemphill is a unique community — peaceful, welcoming, and beautiful. We extend an open invitation for you to discover our city!

Additional details pertinent to city and development:
The City of Hemphill owns its municipal utilities: electric, water, natural gas, and sewer. The city obtains revenue from these utilities as well as from general sales and use tax; therefore, the City does not currently levy an ad valorem tax, which makes it attractive for business development. The City provides assistance to the JR Huffman Public Library, East Sabine Senior Services, Hemphill Housing Authority, the Hemphill Dixie League, Patricia Huffman Smith “Remembering Columbia” NASA Museum, our local Salvation Army, and the Hemphill Volunteer Fire Department. In addition, the City employs four full-time police officers for police protection within the city limits. The City also provides garbage service, parks, and solid waste disposal services. The City maintains a city cemetery.