There are few better ways to spend a day than by the water. And while Texas has only one natural lake, the state is home to countless man-made lakes that offer beautiful scenery, outdoor recreation and plenty of space to unwind.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, an afternoon of fishing or a picnic by the shore, North Texas has plenty of options.
Here’s your guide to some of the top lakes in the region:
Lake Lewisville
Cost: $10 per car, $10 per campsite per night
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Lake Lewisville is kind of a big deal — 29,000 acres big, to be exact, with 233 miles of shoreline and a cozy average depth of 25 feet. Surrounded by 9,000 protected acres, it’s the kind of place where you can fish, boat, paddle, hike and still not run out of things to do. Dubbed the “Urban Bass Fishing Capital of Texas,” the lake is swimming with all kinds of fish and all kinds of fun.
The city of Lewisville also runs a 622-acre park on the south shore, complete with beaches, pavilions, sports fields, camping spots and picnic areas. With marinas, boat rentals and launch ramps, it’s a year-round playground for North Texas outdoor lovers.
Grapevine Lake
Cost: $10 per vehicle, $20 on holiday weekends
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Lake Grapevine may clock in at 8,000 acres, but it packs in enough fun for a lake twice its size. A go-to destination for boating, water skiing, windsurfing, fishing and camping, it’s basically summer in a nutshell. The scenic shoreline and nine miles of trails make it a favorite for hikers and bikers looking to trade city streets for lake views. Boaters can launch into adventure from Scott’s Landing Marina at Oak Grove Park, the biggest marina on the lake, or opt for a more leisurely cruise with charter services like Island Bound Adventures or Black Watch Sailing Charters at Silver Lake Marina. In short, if it involves water and fun, Lake Grapevine has you covered.
Lake Lavon
Cost: $5 per vehicle, $30 per campsite per night
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Just a few miles east of Wylie, Lake Lavon has been charming outdoor lovers since 1953, and it’s still going strong. Known for top-notch fishing, well-kept campgrounds, scenic hiking trails and peaceful parks, it’s the kind of place where “just one more cast” turns into an all-day adventure. It’s a local favorite for a reason, and visitors tend to leave already planning their next trip back.
Burger’s Lake
Cost: $20 per person
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Tucked right in the heart of Fort Worth, this park feels like a hidden gem that somehow dodged the city sprawl. It’s got everything you need for a full day of fun: sandy beaches, shady trees, charcoal grills ready for burgers and enough water features to keep everyone cool. Think six diving boards, three slides, a 25-foot trapeze, bounce balloons, volleyball courts and a splash pad just for the kids. It’s basically summer camp without the counselors.
Eagle Mountain Lake
Cost: $10 during weekdays and $20 on weekends, per vehicle
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Eagle Mountain Lake stretches across 8,694 acres and it’s a favorite for fishing, wakeboarding, water skiing or just cruising the lake with the wind in your hair. On land, Eagle Mountain Park offers a solid lineup of hiking trails, giving outdoor lovers a chance to take in the lake’s natural beauty without getting their feet wet. Whether you’re chasing fish or sunsets, this lake delivers.
Benbrook Lake
Cost: $5 per car, $2 per walker/biker
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Benbrook Lake, tucked into the rolling hills and prairie meadows just southwest of Fort Worth, feels like a breath of fresh country air. It’s a laid-back spot where you can picnic under the trees, cast a line, set up camp or head out on the water for a day of boating. The surrounding parks and public lands are also great for hiking, birdwatching and even a little hunting. And yes — if you're craving a swim, there are designated areas where you can take a dip.
Lake Ray Roberts
Cost: $7 adults, kids 12 and under free
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Just an hour north of DFW, Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers a peaceful escape that feels worlds away. Perfect for a day trip or a full weekend getaway, this park has something for just about everyone. On land, you can hike, bike, camp, ride horses, rollerblade, geocache or even take on a backpacking trail. On the water, cool off at designated swim beaches, cast a line in the lake or the kids’ fishing pond or paddle your way across calm, scenic waters. It’s the kind of place where slowing down comes naturally.
Lake Texoma
Cost: price varies
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Be ready to hit the road for a little while, but trust us, it’s worth it. Lake Texoma’s sprawling beaches offer the perfect place to swim, relax and leave the city noise behind. With roughly 550 miles of shoreline to explore, this massive lake stretches across both Texas and Oklahoma. The Red River arm winds 45 miles through Texas, while the Washita arm covers 30 miles in Oklahoma, all held together by the impressive Denison Dam, creating a stunning 93,080-acre playground for water lovers.
White Rock Lake
Cost: No charge for entrance
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White Rock Lake is one of the crown jewels of the Dallas Park System, and also one of its busiest. Known for hosting everything from fun runs to festivals, it’s a lively urban escape with something for just about everyone. Whether you're into kayaking, birdwatching or simply strolling the scenic waterfront trails, this lake has you covered. Just don’t plan on taking a dip, swimming’s off-limits. Still, with its mix of nature, recreation and people-watching, White Rock offers a perfect blend of city energy and outdoor calm.
Most lakes do not have lifeguards on duty, so it’s essential to follow all posted rules and regulations. For more information on lake safety, visit the link here.
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