Top Lakes in DFW: Where Fun Meets the Water
The Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area may be landlocked, but it’s home to some of the best lakes in Texas for boating, fishing, watersports, and relaxing weekends on the water. Whether you're looking for a lively scene, peaceful nature, or family-friendly shores, these lakes deliver unforgettable outdoor experiences. Here’s a detailed look at the best lakes in DFW that locals and newcomers alike love to explore.
1. Lake Lewisville – Lewisville, TX
Lake Lewisville is a massive recreational lake located just north of Dallas and one of the most popular boating spots in the metroplex. Spanning 29,000 acres, it’s known for its wide-open water, active party cove scenes, and variety of marinas and boat rental options. Locals enjoy the lake for tubing, wakeboarding, and social events on the water. Families can take advantage of public swim beaches, campgrounds, and lakeside parks like Hidden Cove. The fishing is equally impressive, offering a strong population of catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie. Whether you're out for a solo sunset cruise or a weekend pontoon party, Lake Lewisville offers an all-in-one waterfront experience.
Size: 29,000 acres
Highlights: Party Cove, Hidden Cove Park, marina options, RV sites, sandy swim beaches
Fishing: Catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, crappie
Boating & Rentals: Multiple marinas and boat rental companies available
Vibe: Great for big weekends with friends or lakeside events
2. Lake Grapevine – Grapevine, TX
Nestled just minutes from DFW Airport, Lake Grapevine offers a versatile mix of recreation, relaxation, and natural beauty. With over 8,000 acres of water, the lake supports boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding with multiple public launch points and rental options. Fishing is popular here too, especially for smallmouth bass and catfish. The surrounding parks—like Rockledge and Meadowmere—offer scenic trails, shaded picnic areas, and lakeside camping. For those looking to unwind in style, you’ll find upscale restaurants and lakeside bars near the Gaylord Texan resort. The vibe is laid-back yet vibrant, making it an ideal spot for both adventure seekers and families.
Size: 8,000 acres
Highlights: Rockledge Park, Meadowmere Park, Gaylord Texan resort nearby
Fishing: Smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish
Boating & Rentals: Jet skis, pontoon boats, kayaks
Vibe: Scenic, clean, and family-friendly with great sunset views
Learn More – Grapevine Lake
3. Eagle Mountain Lake – Fort Worth, TX
Eagle Mountain Lake is a scenic retreat located northwest of Fort Worth. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, this lake is perfect for residents who want a more low-key boating or fishing experience without sacrificing beauty. The lake spans over 8,600 acres and is framed by tree-covered hills and bluffs, offering great photo ops and calm coves for anchoring out. Wakeboarding and skiing are popular thanks to the steady waters, and its quiet ambiance makes it an underrated fishing destination. The lake is home to Twin Points Park, which features a beach, playground, and event pavilion. With friendly marinas, nearby lakeside eateries, and less traffic than other lakes, Eagle Mountain is a hidden gem.
Size: 8,694 acres
Highlights: Harbor One Marina, Twin Points Park, The Lakehouse restaurant
Fishing: Striped bass, catfish, crappie
Boating & Rentals: Marina-based boat launches and slip rentals
Vibe: Laid-back, scenic, and great for locals wanting to escape the crowds
Learn More – Eagle Mountain Lake
4. Lake Ray Hubbard – Rockwall, TX
On the eastern edge of Dallas, Lake Ray Hubbard offers nearly 23,000 acres of water that attract boaters, jet skiers, and anglers year-round. What makes this lake stand out is the Rockwall Harbor district, which features a bustling boardwalk with restaurants, shopping, and live music. Boaters often dock to enjoy a lakeside dinner or walk the harbor. Sailing clubs, fishing guides, and kayak rentals add to the appeal, while public ramps and marinas provide easy access. The lake supports hybrid striped bass and white bass, making it great for anglers. Ray Hubbard’s blend of natural beauty and vibrant social spots makes it ideal for both relaxing weekends and lively outings.
Size: 22,745 acres
Highlights: Rockwall Harbor, Bass Pro Shops, waterfront boardwalk
Fishing: Hybrid striped bass, largemouth bass, white bass
Boating & Rentals: Boat ramps, sailing clubs, and kayak rentals
Vibe: Active with a social and slightly upscale lake-town feel
Learn More – Lake Ray Hubbard
5. Possum Kingdom Lake – Palo Pinto County (west of Fort Worth)
Though about 90 miles west of Fort Worth, Possum Kingdom Lake is worth the drive for its stunning scenery and ultra-clear waters. Famous for its massive Hell’s Gate cliffs, the lake is popular for cliff diving, tubing, and dramatic holiday fireworks displays. Stretching 17,000 acres, it offers numerous coves, inlets, and deep water for wakeboarding or pontoon cruising. This lake also boasts full-service marinas, lakefront vacation homes, and rustic camping options for extended stays. Anglers love it for striped bass and catfish, while hikers and nature lovers take to nearby trails and lookout points. Possum Kingdom is the ultimate weekend escape for families, couples, and thrill-seekers.
Size: 17,000 acres
Highlights: Hell’s Gate cliffs, camping, hiking, deep clear water
Fishing: Striped bass, catfish, sunfish
Boating & Rentals: Full-service marinas, lake house rentals
Vibe: Adventurous, scenic, and great for multi-day getaways
Learn More – Possum Kingdom Lake
6. Lake Ray Roberts – Pilot Point, TX
Located about an hour north of Dallas, Lake Ray Roberts is one of the most peaceful and pristine lakes in the region. As part of the Ray Roberts Lake State Park system, the shoreline is protected and scenic, offering excellent hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. The 29,350-acre lake is favored by anglers looking for bass and crappie, while boaters enjoy calm waters with minimal congestion. Parks like Isle du Bois and Johnson Branch have beach areas, RV hookups, and rental cabins. Ideal for nature lovers and families, Ray Roberts provides a relaxing experience with plenty of room to explore.
Size: 29,350 acres
Highlights: Ray Roberts Lake State Park, hiking and biking trails, equestrian facilities
Fishing: Crappie, largemouth bass, white bass
Boating & Rentals: Boat ramps and small-scale rental options
Vibe: Tranquil, clean, and great for families or solo nature seekers
Learn More – Ray Roberts Lake
7. Joe Pool Lake – Grand Prairie, TX
Joe Pool Lake, located conveniently between Dallas and Fort Worth, is a favorite among families and day-trippers. It spans 7,470 acres and is flanked by Cedar Hill State Park and Loyd Park, both of which offer campgrounds, swim beaches, and picnic spots. The lake is well-equipped for boating, with multiple marinas and boat rental services. Anglers enjoy casting for largemouth bass and catfish, while jet skiers and tubers take to the open water. The Lynn Creek Marina area includes a restaurant and beach club, making it easy to spend a full day on and off the water. Joe Pool offers accessibility and versatility, making it one of the most user-friendly lakes in the metroplex.
Size: 7,470 acres
Highlights: Lynn Creek Marina, Cedar Hill State Park, Loyd Park beach area
Fishing: Catfish, largemouth bass, white bass
Boating & Rentals: Jet skis, pontoons, fishing boats available
Vibe: Family-friendly and highly convenient for Dallas, Arlington, and Fort Worth residents
Disclaimer: This post is intended for informational purposes only. Real estate professionals are encouraged to provide links and resources without guiding clients toward or away from specific neighborhoods to remain in compliance with Fair Housing guidelines.
Thinking about moving closer to one of DFW’s scenic lakes? Let’s talk about your lifestyle goals and explore your options—without pressure, just facts and friendly guidance. Contact me today for a free consultation!
Gustavo Ramos
Realtor – Keller Williams Dallas Metro North
📞 (817) 876-3390
📧 gustavoramos@kw.com
🌐 gustavoramos.kw.com
