When it comes to the most beautiful lakes in Texas, our readers - A.K.A YOU - know best. From the Piney Woods to the Great Plains and everywhere in between, these 13 lakes are not only gorgeous, but they also offer endless adventure to all who visit their shores. Perhaps you'll find a new favorite escape!
1. Lake Georgetown
Tucked away on the north fork of the San Gabriel River, Lake Georgetown is a 1,200-acre oasis that offers some of the best fishing in the region, as well as myriad other forms of water recreation. Visitors can also embark on 16 miles of hiking trails that meander around the lake!
2. Lake Limestone
Lake Limestone is the perfect place to go if you're looking for a quiet, peaceful escape. This little-known wonder is hardly ever crowded, so you can commune with nature with few distractions.
3. Lake LBJ
One of the largest and most popular lakes in Texas, Lake LBJ is located about 45 miles northwest of Austin on the pristine Colorado River. The lake spans an impressive 10 square miles, and it's a beloved destination for nature lovers to leave their worries behind and enjoy some time on the water. There are numerous vacation rentals and award-winning restaurants on and near the lake, so you can truly live the vacation lifestyle while you're here.
4. Possum Kingdom Lake
Possum Kingdom Lake is a North Texas paradise. The water is crystal-clear and surrounded by towering bluffs and rolling hills, making for a scenic experience that promises to satisfy your wanderlust.
5. Lake Ray Roberts
When you visit Lake Ray Roberts, you'll find it hard to believe that you're just an hour away from the hustle and bustle of the DFW Metroplex. Nicknamed a "natural playground," this manmade reservoir is located within Ray Roberts Lake State Park and offers white sandy beaches for swimming, a fishing pond, and unparalleled kayaking opportunities.
6. Lake Jacksonville
If you're in search of an East Texas escape, it doesn't get much better than Lake Jacksonville. Located in the Neches River basin, this tucked-away treasure features breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, plus gorgeous woodland scenery along the waterfront.
7. Lake Tawakoni
Another lake located within a Texas state park, Lake Tawakoni is a hidden gem that many people have never even heard of. With five miles of lakeshore, the park is ideal for kicking back with your toes in the sand and listening to the sounds of nature. There are also several miles of trails to explore! On a slightly creepier note, Lake Tawakoni State Park is also known for having the largest spiderweb ever documented.
8. Lake Nocona
Known for its extensive largemouth bass population, Lake Nocona is heaven for anglers. Since 1959, locals and visitors alike have been casting their lines into the water and eagerly waiting for a bite. The lake also has a marina, a campground, and three public parks.
9. Salt Lake
Rockport is a coastal town, but Salt Lake gives the Gulf a run for its money. Nothing quite compares to the utter peace and contentment you'll feel as you watch the wind create soft ripples on the water's surface.
10. Lake Livingston
The second-largest lake located entirely within the state of Texas, Lake Livingston is a very popular weekend getaway spot for friends and families. Despite its fame, however, the 83,000-acre lake still offers plenty of peace and quiet, and activities include fishing, boating, hiking, and more.
11. Lake Conroe
Not far north of Houston lies Lake Conroe, an idyllic escape nestled in the dense forest landscape of the East Texas Piney Woods. The lake offers a little something for everyone, whether you're looking to relax and unwind or enjoy an exhilarating adventure. Will you try out a jet ski or lounge around on the beach all day? The choice is entirely yours.
12. Lake Sam Rayburn
Fed by the Angelina River, Lake Sam Rayburn is located upstream of the Big Thicket National Preserve, about 70 miles north of Beaumont. East Texans have been enjoying this quiet oasis - which also happens to be the largest lake wholly within the state - for many years, with its blue waters and beautiful surroundings.
13. Lake Buchanan
The first and largest of the Texas Highland Lakes, Lake Buchanan is best known for its excellent bass fishing opportunities. There are several county parks along the shoreline that offer boat access, as well as waterfront vacation rentals. If you don't have your own boat, you can take a scenic tour that showcases how beautiful this underrated reservoir really is.
How many of these Texas lakes have you visited? Did we leave off your favorite? Tell us your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to check out our Texas Nature Lovers Facebook group and Only In Texas Facebook page for more stunning photos like these.
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