Introduction
Texas, the Lone Star State, is not only famous for its vibrant culture and history but also for its diverse landscapes featuring mountains, rivers, and captivating lowlands. With numerous lakes scattered across the state, Texans have the perfect escape from the scorching summer heat. Whether you’re craving a day of boating, fishing, or simply lounging by the water, Texas has something for everyone.
Here, we’ve curated a list of the top 15 lakes in Texas that you absolutely need to visit for a memorable outdoor experience.
1. Lake Texoma
Location: Grayson and Cooke counties
Surface Area: 36,000 hectares
Nestled at the confluence of the Washita and Red Rivers, Lake Texoma stands out as one of the largest and most developed lakes in Texas. Boasting a plethora of recreational activities, from sailing to water skiing, this lake welcomes around 6 million visitors annually. Additionally, fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching over 70 species of fish, including bass, catfish, and white crappie.
- Over 12 marinas surround Lake Texoma
- Hosts the annual Lakefest Regatta
2. Lake Travis
Location: Central Texas
Surface Area: 7,660 hectares
Formed in 1942 by the Mansfield Dam, Lake Travis offers a stunning panorama of the Colorado River. Popular for boating, scuba diving, and swimming, this lake is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing is also a common pastime, with bass, catfish, and sunfish enhancing the angling experience.
- Over 400kms of shoreline for camping and picnicking
- Home to Hippie Hollow Park and Splash Day
3. Eagle Mountain Lake
Location: North Texas
Surface Area: 3,500 hectares
Trinity River’s gem, Eagle Mountain Lake, caters to wakeboarding, water skiing, and kayaking aficionados. Boating takes center stage here, with the prestigious Fort Worth Boat Club hosting both international and national regattas. The lake is also teeming with largemouth bass, channel catfish, and white crappie, making it a haven for fishing enthusiasts.
- A hub for boating enthusiasts
- Features picnic areas, walking trails, and campgrounds
4. Lake Granbury
Location: 30 minutes from Fort Worth
Surface Area: 3,360 hectares
Created in 1969 by damming the Brazos River, Lake Granbury is a popular spot for wakeboarding, boating, and water skiing. Anglers can reel in bass, catfish, sunfish, and long nose gar in the lake’s 23-meter deep waters. Five recreation areas offer a host of amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and campgrounds, enhancing the overall experience.
- Offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities
- Ample shoreline for camping and picnicking
5. Lake O’ the Pines
Location: Big Cypress Bayou
Surface Area: 76 square kilometers
Surrounded by pine trees, Lake O’ the Pines is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, housing a diverse range of fish species, including bass, catfish, and chain pickerel. Boating facilities, camping grounds, and parks dot the lake’s perimeter, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
- Multiple marinas offering boat rentals
- Lakeside Park featuring a beach area
6. Lake Conroe
Location: 60 minutes north of Houston
Surface Area: 85 square kilometers
Tucked within the East Texas Piney Woods forests, Lake Conroe beckons visitors with its natural beauty and recreational offerings. Fishing, wakeboarding, water skiing, and jet skiing are popular activities in the clear waters of the lake. The surrounding area boasts top-notch golf courses, restaurants, and bars, making it an ideal destination for a day of relaxation.
- Home to the Sam Houston National Forest and Waterpoint Center
- A hotspot for fishing and water sports
7. Lake Austin
Location: Highland Lakes
Surface Area: 647 hectares
Flowing from the Colorado River, Lake Austin is a haven for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The lake’s abundant bass population provides anglers with the opportunity to reel in impressive catches. Visitors can also enjoy wakeboarding, water skiing, and canoeing against the backdrop of scenic beauty.
- Ideal for camping at Emma Long Park
- Restrictions on motorized watercraft for a tranquil experience
8. Sam Rayburn Reservoir
Location: Deep East Texas
Surface Area: 463 square kilometers
Known for its expansive waters and picturesque surroundings, Sam Rayburn Reservoir offers a serene escape for visitors. Swimming, water skiing, and fishing are popular activities, with largemouth bass, catfish, and crappies awaiting anglers. The lake’s unspoiled surroundings make it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
- Home to Rayburn Country Resort and top-notch golf course
- Hiking opportunities in the Sabine National Forest
9. Toledo Bend Reservoir
Location: Texas-Louisiana border
Surface Area: 749 square kilometers
As the largest man-made lake in Texas and the fifth largest in the country, Toledo Bend Reservoir boasts a staggering 1,900 kilometers of shoreline. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, swimming, and a host of water-based activities like boating and wakeboarding. The lake’s lush vegetation provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures.
- Popular fishing spot for largemouth bass
- Abundant recreational opportunities on land and water
10. Possum Kingdom Lake
Location: Brazos River
Surface Area: 8,000 hectares
Known for its stunning Hell’s Gate cliffs, Possum Kingdom Lake offers a unique experience for outdoor enthusiasts. With a surface area of 8,000 hectares, this picturesque lake is a paradise for boating and fishing. Visitors can enjoy the clear waters, rolling hills, and luxurious accommodations at the Cliffs Resort & Spa.
- Home to Possum Kingdom State Park for recreational activities
- Scenic beauty and clear waters for a memorable experience
11. Lake Whitney
Location: Mile River
Surface Area: 96 square kilometers
A year-round favorite for Texans, Lake Whitney offers an array of recreational activities, from sailing to fishing. Visitors can explore numerous lodges, resorts, and camping grounds surrounding the lake, providing amenities like tennis courts, golf courses, and swimming pools. The lake’s scenic 362 kilometers of shoreline beckon outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
- Created as a flood risk river to collect overflow
- Ideal for land and water-based activities
12. Lewisville Lake
Location: North Texas
Surface Area: 11,975 hectares
A summer hotspot, Lewisville Lake boasts ample shoreline dotted with camping facilities, restaurants, and lodges. Boating, fishing, and water sports like wakeboarding are popular activities. Catfish and crappie populate the lake, offering anglers rewarding fishing experiences.
- Second-largest lake in the Trinity River area
- Accessible via the A-train for convenient transportation
13. Lake Amistad
Location: Northwest of Del Rio
Surface Area: 340 hectares
Situated at the confluence of the Devils River and the Rio Grande, Lake Amistad is famous for its stunning beauty and recreational opportunities. Fishing enthusiasts can partake in an annual fishing tournament while boaters, water skiers, and scuba divers revel in the crystal-clear waters. Hiking, camping, and nature walks are also popular activities in the natural surroundings.
- Rich history with Indigenous American presence
- Annual fishing tournament draws national and international competitors
14. Canyon Lake
Location: Guadalupe River
Surface Area: 33 square kilometers
Managed by eight parks, Canyon Lake is a recreational hub offering camping, picnicking, swimming, and boating opportunities. The lake’s beautiful surroundings feature numerous trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, catering to outdoor enthusiasts of all types.
- Ideal for weekend getaways from nearby cities
- Resorts and camping grounds for a memorable outdoor experience
15. Lady Bird Lake
Location: Downtown Austin
Surface Area: 189 hectares
Surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and parks, Lady Bird Lake in Downtown Austin is a tranquil oasis for kayaking, dragon boating, and other non-motorized water activities. Named after former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, this picturesque reservoir is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a calming escape amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Restrictions on motorized watercraft for a serene experience
- Home to Austin’s largest park for recreation
Conclusion
With its diverse array of lakes offering a host of recreational activities, Texas is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to enjoy water sports, fishing, or simply bask in the beauty of nature, these top lakes in Texas provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable experiences. Pack your bags, grab your gear, and set out to explore the stunning lakes that Texas has to offer!