Though Jasper was named in honor of Revolutionary War soldier William Jasper, the city takes advantage of the other meaning of “jasper,” a variety of ornamental gemstone. When you arrive at the jet charter airport in Jasper County – Bell Field, Texas, the sign outside the city welcomes you to “Jasper, Jewel of the Forest.”
The community is located about 130 miles northeast of Houston, and is the county seat for Jasper County. Despite the Hollywood image of Texas cowboys herding cattle through the dusty plains, Jasper is actually located in the East Texas piney wood forests. In the early days, the economy was driven by sawmills. However, tourism now supplements the local revenue. With ample hiking, biking and fishing opportunities, the community of 8,500 welcomes visitors to enjoy the beautiful green natural surroundings.
Bell Field airport serves the county with a 5,500-foot asphalt runway. This is the typical runway length for smaller community airports, but still offers charter travelers plenty of options. Charter aircraft from 4-person turboprops to a 9-seat Dassault 20 mid-size jet can easily access the Bell Field runway. Until recently, the airport would host an annual airshow, with aircraft as large as vintage B-17 and B-25 bombers making appearances.
Jasper will be proud to show you that there is more to Texas than oil rigs and cowboys. With the state’s largest lake (Sam Rayburn Reservoir) just 14 miles away, the community beckons with green forests and a hearty Texas welcome.
