As soon as the weather warms up, we’re on the lookout for something to do outside. One of our favorite things to do is head to one of the many lakes in Dallas-Fort Worth. There are endless things to do—fishing, swimming, hiking, grilling out, reading, riding bikes, playing games—should we keep going? If you’re not sure which one to visit, or you just want to try a new spot, check out our quick guide to the best lakes, reservoirs and beaches near you in North Texas.
LAKES IN CENTRAL DFW
Lake Carolyn
Known for: You could kayak, paddleboard or even ride an aqua-cycle water trike, but perhaps the most unique way to enjoy a day out on Lake Carolyn is to glide across the water on the back of a massive white swan. SUP NTX (or Stand Up Paddle North Texas) rents out all of the aforementioned, including a giant Swan Pedalboat that can hold four passengers between its wings. No lessons or experience required to drive this boat, so it’s great for kids.
LAKES NORTH OF DFW
Lewisville Lake
Known for: Originally named Lake Dallas, this reservoir was expanded in 1940s and 50s and renamed. The swimming is great at the Little Elm Beach, you can hang out on one of the many open areas with a frisbee or football.
Little Elm Beach at Lewisville Lake
Known for: Sandcastles in North Texas? The sandy Little Elm Beach offers plenty of room for beachy play and water fun. It’s one the largest open swim areas in North Texas, plus offers sand volleyball courts, kayak, paddleboard and bike rentals and a playground.
Lake Texoma // ~90 miles
Known for: Texoma is one of the largest reservoirs in the U.S. and a great spot for striper fishing. (Visit the Willis bridge over near Kingston for some good spots.) It’s also a huge favorite for swimming as it has a sandy bottom and a bunch of sandy islands boats can pull up to. One more thing to note: The Texas side has a lot of cliffs and not a lot of beach; the Oklahoma side is flatter. Most of the beach areas are on the islands.
Grapevine Lake
Known for: This lake is super fun for wind surfing and water skiing. There are also some fun spots to camp and great fishing can be found along the rocky shorelines (those bass like to hide out in there). It’s super close to Great Wolf Lodge and the Gaylord Texan Resort too. Access the lake through Meadowmere Park for its sandy beaches and for playtime at WhoaZone, an inflatable obstacle course and playground open during the summers.
Lake Ray Roberts // ~65 miles
Known for: Another great lake with some sandy shores available, Ray Roberts is a beautiful destination for swimming and boating and a prime fishing location. Be careful where you go, though, as spots in the north still have a lot of standing timber (mostly in the northern parts).
Lake Lavon
Known for: This lake is a great spot for those of you in or near Collin County—it’s located right in Wylie. It’s a great spot for camping and boating (there are a lot of boat ramps).
LAKES WEST OF DFW
Burger’s Lake
Known for: If you’re hesitant to step foot into a murky lake, you must visit this serene spot just west of downtown Fort Worth. This spring-fed lake not only has sandy beaches but also slides and diving boards, and the water is filtered and chemically treated, so it feels more like a pool. It’s a family-friendly spot to spend the day, complete with a picnic.
Eagle Mountain Lake
Known for: This gorgeous lake is a must-see if you live in or are visiting Cowtown. While it’s not as large as some of the others in the area, it still has a lot going for it, considering the access for fishing and boating.
Lake Worth
Known for: Another Fort Worth lake, Lake Worth is a beautiful spot to spend your day. There are four parks with boat ramps available, so you can easily get out on the water. Be aware that camping is not allowed on-site.
Lake Bridgeport // ~75 miles
Known for: This is a great lake for water sports—skiing, tubing, wakeboarding, you name it. There are also plenty of picnic spots if you want to just relax by the water.
Possum Kingdom Lake // ~100 miles
Known for: This massive lake is definitely a favorite among DFW residents. It’s just far enough away to make you feel like you’ve gotten away on a trip. And when you see some of that clear, blue water, you’ll understand why. Go for hiking, swimming and diving!
Lake Granbury // ~60 miles
Known for: This long, narrow lake is the perfect drive out of Fort Worth for a day or weekend away. Granbury is a fun spot for boating and water skiing. There are also quite a few restaurants with lake views.
SOUTH OF DFW
Joe Pool Lake
Known for: Just south of Dallas near Cedar Hill, this lake is a great spot for fishing. It’s also worth visiting for some hiking, fishing and camping. Access the lake from Lynn Creek Park for its playground and restrooms and showers for changing your clothes.
Benbrook Lake // ~35 miles
Known for: This body of water is particularly known for its scenic countryside. (Think rolling hills and meadows.) It’s also one of the few lake areas where you can go hunting in addition to the usual camping, fishing and boating.
Lake Whitney // ~80 miles
Known for: Just an hour(ish) south of the Metroplex, it feels like Lake Whitney is still somewhat of a secret. It’s usually not too crowded and has absolutely beautiful cliffs to admire from your boat. There are also some solid RV campgrounds nearby if that’s up your alley.
EAST OF DFW
Lake Ray Hubbard
Known for: A great spot for picnics, camping, fishing and boat charters, this lake has some truly beautiful areas. There are also multiple marinas and parks to choose from, so visitors have plenty of access points.
Cedar Creek Reservoir // ~70 miles
Known for: An easy drive from Dallas, Cedar Creek is a great spot for a weekend getaway, especially if you want to spend some time fishing. While there aren’t many true beach spots, the reservoir has a ton of coves that are great for swimming or getting on your skis.
Lake Tawakoni // ~60 miles
Known for: This lake is a very quiet and peaceful spot just east of Dallas. It has great fishing and camping spots but is also known for its forest trails. It even has some ranger programs!
Lake Fork // ~85 miles
Known for: Fishing. This is the bass fishing destination. Most of it is standing timber, meaning fish will be all over the place near those trees. There are some buoys that will mark open spots where timber has been cut so you can swim or tube. But be careful—there are stumps everywhere.
Image: iStock
