Texas is the second-largest state in the United States. The state not only offers the most stunning cities but also a variety of other top-rated outdoor attractions. Texas offers a variety of freshwater lakes to its residents. These man-made lakes attract millions of tourists from overseas. These best and biggest lakes in Texas offer ample of recreational opportunities to diversified age groups.
From kids to grownups, every type of traveler gets here some of the best lakes according to their preferences. Boating, swimming, water skiing, scuba diving all are most amazing water activities, available in these gigantic lakes. The perfect time to visit these Texas lakes is in summer, all these lakes are very popular among locals and tourists alike.
Read on and explore these stunning and the biggest lakes in Texas, and make sure to check out these lakes when you are in the beautiful iconic state of Texas. All these lakes are going to make you flabbergasted!
1. Toledo Bend Reservoir
This man-made lake is the biggest lake in Texas, and fifth-largest lake by its surface area in the United States. Toledo Bend Reservoir encompasses an area of 185,000 acres, and boasts 1,200 miles of shoreline. The lake is fed by the Sabine River.
Formed in 1969, the lake has the maximum depth of 110 feet. Toledo Bend is a fresh water lake. Swimming is one of the best captivating activities you can enjoy here. Water of this reservoir is too clean and clear. The lake is best known for offering amazing recreational activities. Freshwater fishing, camping, boating, golfing, picnicking, hunting and hiking are most preferred outdoor activities enjoyed by the visitors around this lake.
The lake is surrounded by beautiful forest and other green scenery. A popular vacation destination for world-wide travelers, visitors can spend some relaxing time inside nature. Campgrounds, RV resorts, restaurants, and motels are all available nearby this reservoir.
Numerous tournaments are being held around this reservoir throughout the year. If you want to experience the real beauty of Texas, must visit Toledo Bend Reservoir.
Address: Huxley Bay Marina, 13200 FM2694, Shelbyville, TX 75973
2. Sam Rayburn Reservoir
Sam Rayburn Reservoir, one of the most stunning lakes in Texas and a perfect family outing spot, is nestled north of Texas, in the center of the East Texas Pineywoods. The reservoir is within an hour of Beaumont. It is the 2nd largest lake in Texas, created in 1956.
The breathtaking reservoir offers endless possibilities for outdoor activities and it’s the number one lake in the US for bass fishing. With more than 114,500 acres of area, the reservoir boasts 600 miles of shoreline. And it’s fed by Angelina River from the Neches River. The lake is totally inside the state, being Texas’ one of the most important water bodies. The reservoir is used for generating hydroelectric power.
Must visit this reservoir with your family and friends to have a perfect lakeside getaway! Popular activities are fishing and boating. Don’t forget to take part in the fishing tournament that is held each year.
The best time to visit Sam Rayburn Reservoir is during summer as a variety of bewildering activities keep happening in that season.
Angelina National Forest is the nearest upholding attraction to this reservoir. This forest is a popular destination among camp lovers. You will find here numerous condos and lake houses for your staying.
Address: Mill Creek Park, Mill Creek Park Rd, Brookeland, TX 75931
3. Falcon International Reservoir
Among all the biggest lakes in Texas, Falcon Lake is one of the most important one and it’s the third-largest lake in Texas. This waterbody is used for agricultural purposes and municipal uses. The reservoir is located on the Rio Grande, just right on the border between Texas and Mexico. The surface area is of of 154.63 square miles, and the reservoir covers a total area of 98,963.2 acres. The best part is, visitors can explore multiple hiking trails around the lake.
The lake offers various recreational possibilities for the visitors to enjoy. Water skiing, fishing, picnicking, birdwatching, boating are popular activities. Falcon Lake State Park is the best attraction around this reservoir.
Falcon Lake State Park is most popular not only with swimming, but visitors can also enjoy fishing, boating, water skiing, bird watching, camping, hiking and relaxing in Falcon Lake State Park. Swimming in Falcon Lake is very refreshing.
The place never gets over-crowded, you can always feel the peacefulness that is spreading the whole terrain. There are several camping areas nearby. Visitors like to spend their leisure time with deep relaxation under this serene atmosphere. Visitors also go for fishing to the Mexican Border as it’s very close from this terrain. Though you must remember that you need a license for fishing at the border area.
Address: Falcon State Park, 146 Park Rd 46, Roma, TX 78584
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4. Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma is extended from the Texas border to the Red River. It’ s located on the border area of Texas and Oklahoma. With more than 78,000 acres of area and the shoreline of 1000 miles, the reservoir is one of the most popular among overseas tourists. It was created in 1944 for flood controlling purposes.
The surrounding area is draped over with fifty-four parks, some amazing beaches, twenty-six resorts, hiking trails, golf courses, two wildlife refuges and marinas and two state parks. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these refuges which are most popular spots for birdwatching. Other featuring wild Life include deer and bobcats. And the popular water sports are windsurfing, water skiing and sailing.
For offering so many opportunities, it’s no wonder that 6 million of visitors reach to this lake each year to get all the enjoyment. The reservoir is very eminent among both locals and tourists. College students also make this spot their one of the most preferred vacation destinations in the state.
Lake Texoma holds seventy fish species, which make it a hot spot among fish lovers and fishermen. The lake is also one of the most popular boating destinations in Texas.
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5. Lake Livingston
The fifth-largest lake in Texas, Lake Livingston is managed by the Trinity River Authority of Texas. It is located in the East Texas Piney Woods. This waterbody is used for agricultural, municipal and industrial purposes. Though the initial purpose behind the creation of this waterbody was to provide freshwater to its residents. The average depth of Lake Livingston is 23 ft, and the maximum depth is 90 feet.
Encompassing 129.73 square miles, the lake offers a picturesque view to its visitors. With 83,000-acre surface area, Lake Livingston is some of the largest lakes in Texas. Because of its gigantic size, Lake Livingston offers great boating and fishing opportunities to the people.
This most amazing lake attracts the visitors for its outstanding recreational activities. The nearby park offers hiking, horse-riding and camping facilities for overnight staying. You can also get some beach experience here because several public beaches are awaiting for you.
If you are a fish lover, must visit the place as you discover here a variety of fish species including crappie and catfish.
And, if you are looking for a perfect place to spend some relaxed time with your near and dear ones, this is an ideal spot for that, also. So, make it your next weekend getaway destination.
Address: 300 State Park Rd 65, Livingston, TX 77351-1601
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6. Amistad Reservoir
Amistad Reservoir is located on the US-Mexican border, and this man-made lake was constructed in 1969 and it is stretched with 64,900 acres. Viewing rock art, makes this spot much popular among travelers.
Amazing recreational activities are boating, water skiing, fishing and scuba diving. Wildlife is very active here. Most watching animals are exotic birds and deer. You can explore multiple hiking trails to enjoy the natural beauty with a deeper sense. To make your adventure more imposing, various camping facilities, including RVs and tents, are awaiting there!
Address: 10477 Highway 90 West, Del Rio, TX 78840
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7. Richard-Chambers Reservoir
The reservoir was formerly known as Richland Reservoir. Richard-Chambers Reservoir is the 8th largest reservoir by its water volume in Texas, and it has 64.63 square miles of surface area. This man-made lake is most popular among boaters and active anglers.
Talking about the recreational activities, Richard-Chambers Lake provides dozens of thrilling water activities like jet skiing, boating, tubing and swimming. Apart from these water activities, visitors also enjoy wildlife watching, attending camping sessions, and setting up a picnic with their family and friends.
Address: 10411 US-287, Corsicana, TX 75109
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8. Lake Tawakoni
Lake Tawakoni is surrounded by green forested areas, making it a perfect place for weekend getaways among families and active travelers. The surface area of the lake is stretched over 57 square miles.
You get here ample of opportunities to fulfil all your outdoor excitements, and fishing opportunity is mostly grabbed by most of visitors. The 376 acres of oak forest and sandy beaches must make your trip more and more celestial. Don’t miss the chance to explore Lake Tawakoni State Park which offers five miles of natural trail. Birdwatching, hiking, mountain biking all these attractions are making this spot more captivating among all types of visitors.
If you have much time, must visit the nearby historic town of Greenville. It is just a short drive from Tawakoni Lake, and you are there! If you are a person who likes to be attached with history, visit the town’s polished museums.
If you visit Tawakoni Lake in summer, don’t miss the opportunity to check out the lake’s amphitheater and events.
Address: 10822 FM 2475, Wills Point, TX 75169
9. Cedar Creek Reservoir
Cedar Creek Reservoir annexes the 9th spot on the biggest lakes in Texas. This lake is 18 miles long and has 320 miles of shoreline and the maximum depth is 62 feet. The lake is most popular for swimming in crystal-clear water. The northern end of the lake holds sallow water. The 32,000-acre reservoir is built on Cedar Creek, and it’s flowing down to Trinity River. And it is located in Kaufman and Henderson Counties.
The entire terrain is very scenic. Families like to spend relaxing moments inside the lush green forests and rolling hills. Recreational opportunities include swimming and water skiing in the crystal-clear water. Some amenities are cleaning stations, restrooms and plenty of parking space. Camping is also available here.
Another popular activity in the reservoir includes good fishing opportunities. Cedar Creek Reservoir is stocked with variety of fish species, the most common species include largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, channel catfish and blue catfish.
Address: Fisherman’s Wharf, 2904 CR 1703, Malakoff, Texas 75148
10. Ray Roberts Lake
Ray Roberts Lake is just 60 minutes driving-path from the north of the DFW Metroplex. The terrain is widely famous among aspiring hikers as the park provides 10 miles long hiking trails to explore. The 29,350-acre man-made lake receives thousands of visitors for its captivating surroundings.
Your kids will certainly love to observe the behaviours of colourful frogs and turtles in the marshy areas. Take them to the fishing pond and have some amazing moment with your kids and other family members. You can also observe the aquatic life from a closer distance. To enjoy star gazing, overnight camping is a good choice.
Altogether, this most authentic Texas lake is perfect for your next weekend getaway.
Address: 100 P W 4137, Pilot Point, TX 76258
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11. Possum Kingdom Lake
One of the prettiest and biggest lakes in Texas, Possum Kingdom Lake is famous for its clear blue water. The lake is 17,000-acre reservoir on the Brazos River. The lake is located inside Possum Kingdom State Park. Must visit Bobcat Lookout. It is the favourite spot among many visitors. The reservoir preserves a unique ecosystem.
Popular water sports are fishing and boating. The most thrilling outdoor activity is cliff-jumping. Each year, Possum Lake hosts the Red Bull Cliff Diving Championship, where divers plunge from 90 feet height.
12. Lake Travis
This must-to-visit family day-trip destination is widely famous for its iconic Lake Travis. The lake offers 270 miles of shoreline that is filled with enormous fun activities enjoyed by all age groups. The reservoir is located on the Colorado River. Visitors like to spend their relaxing time by enjoying both on and off the water activities.
College students mostly prefer to visit this place because of its partylike and lively atmosphere. Popular water activities are fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, speedboarding and jet skiing. Don’t miss the chance to visit the famous spot Hippie Hollow. And who can forget about Devil’s Cove, where countless boats create a floating party each weekend. If you are still in mood, head to Mansfield Dam Park and explore sunken ships and different dive sites.
For night staying, you may opt for vacation rentals or resorts. Volente Beach Resort would be a great choice. The best time to visit the place is during spring.
13. Lake O’ the Pines
Lake O’ the Pines is famous among fish lovers. This is one of the most beautiful lakes that you get within the state of Texas. Various fish species are found in the lake, including catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappies, sunfish, channel catfish and chain pickerel. The lake covers the total surface area of 29.19 square miles. The name of the lake suggests that there are several beautiful pine trees in the terrain.
Lake O’ the Pines reservoir was the result for the construction of a dam that was started in 1955 and was completed in 1959.
Around the lake there are various marines. Go to any of those marines, hire a boat and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area while floating on water. Camping grounds and seven different parks are also available there. Basic amenities are boat ramps, restrooms and picnic tables.
Altogether, Lake O’ Pines is a great option to escape from your busy life and to have some relaxed time with your own self in this one of the biggest lakes in Texas!
FAQ
1. What is the largest lake in Texas?
Toledo Bend Reservoir is the largest lake in Texas, and fifth-largest lake by its surface area in the United States. Toledo Bend Reservoir covers an area of 185,000 acres, and there are 1,200 miles of shoreline.
2. What is the cleanest lake in Texas?
Lake Mackenzie is considered to be the cleanest lake in Texas. This crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming, fishing and scuba diving.
3. What is Texas largest natural lake?
Lake Caddo is the largest natural lake in Texas.
4. What are the five largest lakes in Texas?
Toledo Bend Reservoir (182,490 acres), Sam Rayburn Reservoir (112,590 acres), Falcon Reservoir (85,195 acres), Lake Texoma (78,420 acres), Lake Amistad (66,465 acres) are the five biggest lakes in Texas.
5. What is the nicest lake in Texas?
Texas is home to multiple beautiful and scenic lakes. The top 8 nicest lakes in Texas are Inks Lake, Lady Bird Lake, Lake Texoma, Lake O ’the Pines, Canyon Lake, Lake Conroe, Possum Kingdom Lake and Amistad Reservoir. There are many other beautiful lakes you can enjoy in the state. For your perfect weekend getaway, you may certainly choose any of the above mentioned lakes.
6. Is it safe to swim in Texas lakes?
Most of the Texas Lakes are very perfect and safe for swimming, but, sometimes, these natural waterbodies may contain algae. Then the water gets harmful for both human and pets. If you get any news regarding the lake’s poor water quality from any local, then be little aware. You must keep yourself at a distance from any direct contact of poor quality water, and always avoid swimming in shallow flowing water.
7. Can you swim in Toledo Bend Reservoir?
Swimming can be rewarding in the reservoir at the North Toledo Bend State Park. Other popular activities in the reservoir are fishing, boating, picnicking and relaxing! For fishing purposes anglers need to have either Louisiana or Texas freshwater license.
8. How many lakes are in Texas?
You may not believe, but Texas holds more than 7 thousand lakes and ponds, most of which are found in the central and eastern parts of the state, and these were created due to the construction of multiple dams, and many of these lakes are around Dallas. Furthermore, Texas boasts many natural lakes, and these are smaller than man-made lakes.
9. Do you need a permit to fish in Lake Texoma?
Yes, you definitely need Texas license to fish in Lake Texoma. Remember, two-third of this reservoir is lied in Oklahoma, so, anglers can’t fish in those portions with Texas license. For that, anglers need to specially purchase Lake Texoma license to fish the entire reservoir. Lake Texoma license costs $12.
10. What is Lake Texoma fishing guides prices?
If you want to enjoy a guided fishing tour at Lake Texoma, you need to pay $150. The deposits are non-refundable, and if you want to enjoy a single angler trip, you need to pay $375. For kids, aged 10 years or less, Lake Texoma fishing guides prices are $75 per head. The tour lasts from 6 to 8 hours. All fishing equipment are provided for you, except Lake Texoma license. Make sure to carry your license when you’re going to experience some of the best stripper fishing on Lake Texoma.
11. Is it safe to swim in Lake Livingston?
There are designated swimming areas in Lake Livingston where you can enjoy safe swimming. Some of these safe places are Lake Livingston Park, Wolf Creek Park and Pine Island. Don’t choose any random place for swimming. It might cause danger.
