Charming village on I-35 south of Temple in Central Texas dates from Texas' early days. The town grew around the Sterling C. Robertson home and plantation, and was incorporated in 1867. Named for Salado (salty) Creek, town prospered with the founding of Salado College in 1860, and was prominent on the Chisholm Trail. First farmer's Grange in Texas established 1873. But when bypassed by the railroad, the late 19th Century's ultimate transportation mode, college closed and town dwindled to the status of an isolated village.

Today's visitors find a fascinating variety of shops--art galleries, antiques, crafts and women's fashions. Several outstanding craftsmen and artists reside in Salado. Also excellent restaurants, drive-by historic sites. Eighteen listings on National Register of Historic Homes.

The chamber of commerce can provide additional information by calling (254) 947-5040.

Stillhouse Hollow Lake

6,430-acre impoundment of the Lampasas River features broad areas of open water between rocky, steep shorelines; one of the few Texas lakes where anglers may take smallmouth, largemouth, and Kentucky spotted bass on the same outing. Also trophy-size hybrid striped bass, and popular panfish species. Lake fish include hybrid striped bass 11.63 lbs., and smallmouth bass, 4.31 lbs. Five public parks offer marina service, camping, picnicking, and boat-launching ramps. Details at Corps of Engineers headquarters area at the dam, F.M. 1670. Eight miles southwest of Belton, access via F.M. 1670 off U.S. 190 west, or via F.M. 2766 and F.M. 1670 west of I-35 from Salado. Also accessible from Killeen and Temple.

Stagecoach Inn

Originally the Shady Villa Inn, now called the The Stagecoach Inn, a prominent site on the Chisholm Trail in the 19th Century. Inn's guest book reads like a frontier Who's Who: Gen. George A. Custer, Robert E. Lee, Sam Houston, Jesse James and Shanghai Pierce. The primary old frame structure is today restored as a notable restaurant, surrounded by modern motor inn. Off I-35, Salado exit.

Pace Park

Tree-shaded picnic area beside picturesque Salado Creek, which was Texas' first designated natural landmark. Site was an Indian campground long before recorded history.