Summertime in Dallas is HOT. And I’m not just talking about the temperatures. The competition to find a spot at your favorite watering hole can be fierce.
But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with this list of the best lakes you can swim on in Dallas! So grab your bathing suit, sunscreen, and towel, and get ready to cool off at one of these great spots:
1. Lake Lavon
Lake Lavon is one of the largest reservoirs in north Texas, offering 121 miles of shoreline and five wide sandy beaches. It is easily accessible from Dallas via State Highway 78, making it a popular spot for recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails around the Lake or relaxing on one of its beaches.
There are 16 parks around Lake Lavon, with 244 picnic sites, 238 camping sites, and nine boat ramps available for visitors. Additionally, there is a 14-kilometer equestrian trail along the shoreline for those who wish to explore by horseback.
2. Lake Ray Roberts
Lake Ray Roberts is located at 100 PW 4153 Valley View, TX, just north of Dallas. Lake Ray Roberts is a great lake to swim on in Dallas due to its beautiful scenery and plentiful amenities.
The Isle Du Bois park at Lake Ray Roberts offers a swim beach, a child’s fishing pond, hiking and biking trails, and a boating marina with pontoons, canoes, and kayaks for rent by the hour. The marina is just an hour north of the DFW metroplex, making it an ideal day trip destination for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
3. White Rock Lake
White Rock Lake is a popular swimming spot because it offers many attractions and activities for visitors. It is surrounded by White Rock Lake Park, which has a playground, picnic areas, and a nature trail. The Lake is also home to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Visitors can swim in the Lake or take a boat out onto the water.
White Rock Lake is located in Northeast Dallas, approximately 1,000 acres in size, with 1 mile of shoreline on each side of the Lake, making it perfect if you like to swim or enjoy nature walks around lakeside attractions such as boathouses and boat launches or even just taking in the scenery from one of its many scenic overlooks!
4. Lake Lewisville
There are plenty of places to go swimming or relax by the water. Lake Lewisville is a great lake to swim on because it offers many amenities such as marinas, restaurants, 12 parks, and 223 miles of shoreline. It’s also close to Dallas, making it easily accessible for those who want to enjoy the Lake’s beauty.
Lake Lewisville is located northwest of Dallas and can be reached in about 30 minutes by car. It covers an area of 29,000 acres and has a maximum depth of 100 feet. The average depth of the Lake is 20 feet.
The Lake was created in 1955 when the Army Corps of Engineers dammed the Elm Fork of the Trinity River. The Lake is named after Lewisville, Texas, which was established in 1925.
5. Burgers Lake
Burger’s Lake is a unique 30-acre park located on the northwest side of Fort Worth. The central point of attraction at the park is a spring-fed swimming lake lined with lifeguards and fountains. This offers a safe and enjoyable environment for swimmers, as there are plenty of amenities such as two sandy beaches, diving boards, small waterslides, and even a 25-foot trapeze. Additionally, Burger’s Lake provides hundreds of picnic tables and charcoal grills for those who want to enjoy their time outdoors.
The Lake is one acre in size and is surrounded by 30 acres of parkland that features many other attractions, such as slides, diving boards, and a trapeze that kids can swing on into the Lake! Two sandy beach areas also provide perfect spots to relax in the sun during the summertime.
6. Grapevine Lake
Grapevine Lake is a great lake to swim on in Dallas due to its beautiful red sand and stunning views. Those who visit the Lake can go for a swim, go kayaking, or ride in a boat. Additionally, it is known for its abundance of fish species, such as bass, white crappie, and catfish, making it even more enjoyable for those who love fishing.
Grapevine Lake is located 20 miles northwest of Dallas and northeast of Fort Worth in the North Texas region. The Lake offers boating opportunities and kayaking/canoeing activities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to have some fun outdoors while taking in the breathtaking scenery! It has 30 miles of natural trails and camping facilities managed by the city of Grapevine, which offers RV camping sites and rental cabins so visitors can enjoy their stay in comfort.
7. Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma is a great lake to swim on because it has several beaches and marinas that offer an enjoyable experience. A wildlife refuge is also excellent for photography, hiking, fishing, and bird watching. Eisenhower State Park, Lake Texoma State Park, and Island View Park all offer great swimming beaches that are perfect for relaxing or having fun with friends.
Lake Texoma is located on the Texas-Oklahoma border and spans over 89,000 acres of land. The Lake is home to many different species of fish, including largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. Several beaches and marinas make it a perfect place to swim, sunbathe, or go fishing.
8. Lake Granbury
Lake Granbury is a great lake to swim on in Dallas due to its large size and variety of amenities. The 8,000 acres of water offer plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming from sandy beaches. The city also provides several day-use areas, such as volleyball courts and picnic pavilions, so visitors can enjoy their time around the Lake more fully.
Lake Granbury is located southwest of Dallas, near the Fort Worth metropolitan area. It can be reached by car in about an hour and a half from downtown Dallas via Highway 377 bridge which has a popular boat ramp for all vessels getting on the water. Additionally, showers and bathrooms are available at the city beach park, making it easy for swimmers to rinse off before heading home after their swim session in Lake Granbury’s tranquil waters.
9. Lake Bridgeport
Lake Bridgeport is a great lake to swim on in Dallas due to its size and variety of fish species. The Lake is 18.6 Square Miles large, making it one of the largest reservoirs in North Texas. It also offers plenty of opportunities for anglers as it contains largemouth bass, sand bass, hybrid bass, and crappie. Additionally, there are marinas and boat ramps around the shoreline for those who wish to take their own vessel out on the water.
Wise County Park sits at the very north end of Lake Bridgeport and features a swimming beach, boat ramps, a pier, and a bait shop. There are also picnic areas and campsites available for those looking to stay longer than just an afternoon in the sun.
10. Joe Pool Lake
Joe Pool Lake is a great lake to swim on due to its wide variety of activities, facilities, and attractions. It features several parks that offer boat ramps, public swimming beaches, and marinas. The Lynn Creek Marina, located on the Lake’s north side, has fishing facilities, sailboats, boat rentals, and an indoor-outdoor fishing area. Cedar Hill State Park sits along the Lake’s east shoreline and is home to a campground with over 350 stations catering to tent camping and RV parking.
The approximately 7,740-acre Lake spans three cities southwest of Dallas: Cedar Hill city in Texas, Garland city in Texas, and Rowlett city Texas. It is fed by Mountain Creek, which branches from the Trinity River. Since its impoundment in 1986, it has grown into a top recreation destination in this region.
What to consider when choosing a lake for swimming in Dallas
Location
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a lake for swimming in Dallas is its location. Some lakes are in residential areas, while others are in more rural locations. Both have pros and cons, so deciding what’s most important to you is important. If you’re looking for a quiet place to relax and enjoy the scenery, a lake in a rural area might be a good option. However, if you’re looking for a more active environment with plenty of things to do, a lake in a more Residential location might be a better choice.
Safety
Safety considerations should be considered when choosing a lake for swimming in Dallas. Lakes with fewer boat traffic and access points are safer for swimming. Additionally, it is essential to know if the Lake has any hazards, such as shallow areas or wildlife.
Depth
When choosing a lake to swim in Dallas, depth is important. Some lakes are quite shallow, while others are much deeper. If you’re not a strong swimmer, or if you have young children, it’s best to choose a shallow lake for everyone to enjoy safely.
Swimming conditions
When choosing a lake to swim in Dallas, it’s important to consider the swimming conditions. The water quality can vary from Lake to Lake, so be sure to check for any advisories before swimming. The water temperature can also vary, so be sure to check the forecast before heading out. Some lakes may have more crowded swimming areas than others, so if you’re looking for a more secluded experience, be sure to check for that as well.
Amenities
Some lakes in Dallas offer swimming, boating, fishing, and other amenities, while others are more developed for water sports like swimming and sailing. It is important to do your research and decide which Lake is best for you before you go.
Lifeguard service
Some lakes may not have lifeguards on duty at all times, while others may only have them during certain hours. It is important to check with the Lake before swimming to make sure that there will be a lifeguard on duty when you plan to swim.
Tips for a safe and enjoyable lake swimming experience
-Check with the Lake before swimming to make sure that there will be a lifeguard on duty when you plan to swim.
-Make sure to wear sunscreen and reapply it often, especially if swimming in a lake with no shade.
-Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and take breaks often to rest in the shade or in the shallows.
-Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards, such as deep water, drop-offs, or submerged objects.
-Swim with a friend or group whenever possible, and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
FAQ
What makes lakes great for swimming?
Lakes make great swimming spots because they offer a variety of benefits. Swimming promotes full-body muscle toning, excellent cardiovascular exercise, a reduction of stressful forces acting on your body, flexibility, and mental tranquility. It also provides an opportunity for you to enjoy the beauty of nature while exercising.
What amenities do these lakes offer?
Many of Dallas’s lakes offer visitors great amenities, including swimming areas, fishing spots, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Some popular lakes include White Rock Lake, Bachman Lake, and Lake Bridgeport. White Rock Lake is a great place to go for a swim, with its large swimming area and beautiful scenery.
Are there any camping or RV parks near the lakes?
Yes, there are several camping and RV parks near the lakes in Dallas. The more popular ones include Cedar Hill State Park, Lake Ray Hubbard Park, and White Rock Lake Park. These parks offer various amenities, including campsites, picnic areas, hiking trails, and swimming areas.
Are there any hiking trails or picnic areas near the lakes?
Many of the lakes in Dallas have hiking trails and picnic areas nearby. Some even have swimming beaches! So if you’re looking for a place to cool off and enjoy the outdoors, one of these lakes might be the perfect spot.
What type of fish can be found in the lakes?
The type of fish found in the lakes will vary depending on the Lake itself. However, some of the most common types of fish that can be found in Dallas lakes include bass, catfish, and perch.
Is there any fee to access the lakes?
No, there is no fee to access the lakes. Although there is a fee for parks around these lakes, the lakes themselves are free to swim in.
Are there any watersports or activities available at the lakes?
Many of the lakes in Dallas offer watersports and other activities. Some of the more popular ones include fishing, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. There are also several parks that offer hiking and biking trails.