Rusk County has a population of 53,000. There are several cities located on Rusk and neighboring county lines that include the cities of Easton, Kilgore, Overton, Reklaw, and Tatum. Lake Cherokee, Lake Striker, and Martin Lake and its State Park are all great locations for water sports and activities. November brings the Henderson syrup festival, and a bluegrass festival happens in July. Those who love the beauty of nature or the intrigue of history can take the East Texas Wildflower or Historic Black Gold Oilfield Driving Tours.