Make A Splash At These 7 Crystal-Clear Lakes In Texas This Summer
Texas can get pretty toasty in the summer, so it’s nice to have a body of water to cool off in. We’re bringing you not one, but seven of the clearest lakes in Texas, each one more breathtaking than the last.
Just a short drive from Lubbock, Lake Mackenzie is one of the prettiest lakes in Texas and a hidden gem summer destination in the small Panhandle town of Silverton. Surrounded by rugged canyonlands, its pristine waters are ideal for boating and fishing, and cabins, RV plots, and primitive campsites are available for overnight guests.
2. Amistad National Recreation Area (Del Rio)
Amistad National Recreation Area Visitor Center and Bookstore, 10477 Highway 90 West, Del Rio, TX 78840, USA
One of the most beautiful clear lakes in Texas is found at Amistad National Recreation Area. It is an oasis in the arid desert of southwestern Texas. The deep blue water allows for such recreational activities as boating, fishing, paddling, and scuba diving, and hiking, birding, and rock art viewing are also popular.
Among the deepest lakes in Texas, Canyon Lake has a whopping 80 miles of scenic shoreline. With sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, it's a favorite spot among families during the summer months.
Another North Texas gem, Lake Alan Henry attracts visitors from all over the state - and for good reason. It is one of the cleanest lakes in Texas. Its clear waters, boasts some of the best fishing in the state, and features plenty of dining and lodging opportunities.
Easily among the most popular lakes in Texas, Lake Travis is a pristine Hill Country oasis. You can practically see straight through to the bottom, and there are endless ways to enjoy yourself on the water.
About 30 miles east of Amarillo, Lake Meredith is one of the beautiful clear lakes in Texas, and the place to go if you like breathtaking scenery without the crowds that normally come along with it. Featuring ancient red rocks and crystal-clear waters, it's an ideal spot for fishing, swimming, water skiing, hiking, and so much more.
Another Hill Country Texas lakes favorite, Medina Lake has some of the most breathtaking turquoise water you've ever seen. Guests have access to plenty of amenities the whole family is sure to enjoy, and the sunsets are out of this world.
The water levels in some of these lakes can fluctuate. Before you visit check out the water level to make sure your adventure to these Texas lakes is picture perfect!
How many of these lakes in Texas have you visited? Did we leave off your favorite? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section.
Address: Lake Mackenzie, Texas 79257, USA
Address: Amistad National Recreation Area Visitor Center and Bookstore, 10477 Highway 90 West, Del Rio, TX 78840, USA
Address: Canyon Lake, TX, USA
Address: Lake Alan Henry, Texas, USA
Address: Lake Travis, Texas, USA
Address: Lake Meredith, Atascocita, TX 77044, USA
Address: Medina Lake, Texas, USA
Address: Lake Mackenzie, Texas 79257, USA
Address: Amistad National Recreation Area Visitor Center and Bookstore, 10477 Highway 90 West, Del Rio, TX 78840, USA
Address: Canyon Lake, TX, USA
Address: Lake Alan Henry, Texas, USA
Address: Lake Travis, Texas, USA
Address: Lake Meredith, Texas, USA
Address: Medina Lake, Texas, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Lakes In Texas
May 23, 2022
Libby Monson
Where can I Kayak in Texas?
Uncrowded waters make the best spots for kayaking. You’ll find plenty of room and unspoiled waters at Tyler State Park in the Piney Woods. As you glide across the glassy water, you’ll enjoy the evergreen trees and beautiful scenery surrounding this spring-fed lake. Swimming and fishing are also fun activities at this Texas Lake. Plan a weekend getaway and stay at one of the campsites or cabins.
Where can I go fishing in Texas?
There are plenty of lakes in Texas that are great for fishing, but if you haven’t been to Lake Balmorhea, put it on your bucket list! Lake Balmorhea is a freshwater reservoir surrounded by mountains. You’ll be fishing for white crappie, sunfish, bass, and catfish. You can fish from the shore or paddle out in a canoe or kayak. The sunsets are spectacular, so bring your tent or RV and stay a while!
Which Texas lakes are great for swimming?
There is nothing better on a hot day than swimming in the cool water of a sparkling blue lake. Lake Texoma in Eisenhower State Park is only an hour from Dallas. This lake is a fantastic spot for swimming and all other water fun! You’ll find beautiful white beaches and blue water at this Texas lake. You can search for fossils from a prehistoric ocean or peek inside the caves. Kayaking is also popular at this lake, and there are miles of trails for hiking.
Address: Lake Mackenzie, Texas 79257, USA
Address: Amistad National Recreation Area Visitor Center and Bookstore, 10477 Highway 90 West, Del Rio, TX 78840, USA
Address: Canyon Lake, TX, USA
Address: Lake Alan Henry, Texas, USA
Address: Lake Travis, Texas, USA
Address: Lake Meredith, Atascocita, TX 77044, USA
Address: Medina Lake, Texas, USA
Address: Lake Mackenzie, Texas 79257, USA
Address: Amistad National Recreation Area Visitor Center and Bookstore, 10477 Highway 90 West, Del Rio, TX 78840, USA
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
