With more than 150 lakes scattered throughout Texas, there are plenty of opportunities to have some fun in the sun, whether you love to boat, fish, jet ski, or swim. We've prepared this epic list of some of the best lakes in Texas that will entice you to get out on the water and relax on those scorching summer days. Grab your swimsuit, some sunscreen, and get ready to make a splash this summer at one of these beautiful lakes in Texas!
1) Lake Whitney
2) Caddo Lake
The only natural lake in all of Texas, Caddo Lake's thick bald cypress trees and open waterways provide the perfect environment for canoeing and swimming.
3) Lake Travis
A reservoir on the Colorado River, this lake near Austin is a popular summer hangout for Texans in the hill country. For a truly epic getaway, stay a few night in this iconic floathouse.
4) Lake Sam Rayburn
Located just north of Jasper in the deep piney woods, the tranquility of this lake will make you want to stay all day.
5) Lake Marble Falls
A peaceful reservoir on the Colorado River near Marble Falls, this is one of the best lakes to visit in Texas for anyone looking for tranquil waters and less crowds. While you're in the area, spend a day exploring the charming town of Marble Falls.
6) Toledo Bend Reservoir
Located on the Sabine River between the border of Texas and Louisiana, the Toledo Bend Reservoir is a true fisherman's paradise. If fishing isn't for you, take a refreshing dip in the cool waters or find a shady spot along the shoreline to watch the wildlife. You might just see a bald eagle scoop up a snack!
7) Lady Bird Lake
8) Canyon Lake
Located 40 miles north of San Antonio. It's one of the deepest lakes in Texas at 125 feet, and has over 80 miles of scenic shoreline.
9) Possum Kingdom Lake
Located in Palo Pinto County, this scenic Texas lake is a favorite for swimming, boating, fishing, and even scuba diving.
10) Amistad Reservoir
If you're the type of person that needs to see what you're swimming in, then you'll love the Amistad Reservoir. It's one of the clearest lakes in Texas.
11) Lake Cypress Springs
100 miles northeast of Dallas, this beautiful body of water in Texas is spring-fed, so expect another one of the clearest lakes in Texas!
12) Lake Buchanan
Lake Buchanan is 30 miles long and 5 miles wide, so you'll have plenty of shoreline to snag for your own while you splash the day away.
13) Choke Canyon Reservoir
This beautiful lake in Texas is a great spot to watch the sunset. This is one of the westernmost lakes in Texas where alligators live, so maybe skip the swimming in this lake and opt for a kayak or a boat instead.
14) Lake Bastrop
We're really lucky to have such natural beauty right at our fingertips in the Lone Star State. What are some of your favorite Texas lakes to soak up some rays and relax in?
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