Jasper county was one of the original 23 counties at the creation of the Republic of Texas in 1836. A typical sawmill town settled by Mr. John Bevil, was referred to as Snow River or Bevil's Settlement. At Bevil's request, the name was changed to Jasper after an American Revolutionary hero named Sgt. William Jasper, who was killed attempting to plant the American colors at the storming of Savannah in 1779.

Just a few minutes northwest of Jasper, Lake Sam Rayburn, or "Big Sam" is the crown jewel of recreation in the Jasper-Lake Sam Rayburn Area. Lake Sam Rayburn is the biggest reservoir within the state's borders. Residents and vacationers alike flock to Lake Sam Rayburn for popular outdoor fun in fishing, boating, water skiing, wake boarding, and swimming. For those who like to stay dry and still have a good time, camping, bird watching, golfing, and hiking are among the most common attractions.