Did you know Lake Texoma is one of the largest reservoirs in the United States, spanning an impressive 89,000 acres across the Texas-Oklahoma border? This massive freshwater playground is home to the only self-sustaining population of striped bass in Texas, making it a fishing paradise nicknamed the “Striper Capital of the World.” Whether you’re an angler seeking trophy catches, a family looking for outdoor adventure, or a nature enthusiast wanting to explore scenic hiking trails, Lake Texoma offers endless possibilities for recreation and relaxation.
Getting to Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma is conveniently located about 85 miles north of Dallas-Fort Worth, making it easily accessible for weekend getaways. The closest major airports are Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Dallas Love Field (DAL), both approximately a 1.5-hour drive from the lake.
Plan Your Journey to Lake Texoma
Find the best flight deals to Dallas and rent a car for the scenic drive to Lake Texoma.
If you’re driving from Oklahoma City, the lake is approximately 120 miles south, making it about a 2-hour journey. From the Dallas-Fort Worth area, take US-75 North to reach the southern shores of Lake Texoma. Several highways provide access to different areas around the lake, including US-377, US-70, and State Highway 91.
Best Time to Visit Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma offers year-round attractions, but the best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June-August) brings warm temperatures perfect for swimming, boating, and water sports, though this is also peak tourist season. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and excellent fishing conditions.
| Season | Temperature | Activities | Crowd Level |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 60-80°F | Fishing, hiking, camping | Moderate |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 80-100°F | Swimming, boating, water sports | High |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 60-85°F | Fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing | Low to moderate |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 40-60°F | Bird watching, fishing, photography | Low |
For fishing enthusiasts, spring is prime time for striped bass as they make their spawning runs up the Red and Washita Rivers. Fall offers excellent fishing for blue catfish and largemouth bass. Holiday weekends, especially Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day, see the highest visitor numbers, so book accommodations well in advance if planning a trip during these periods.
Where to Stay at Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma offers diverse accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. From lakeside cabins and campgrounds to comfortable hotels and vacation rentals, you’ll find the perfect place to rest after a day of adventure.
Campgrounds
Experience the great outdoors at one of Lake Texoma’s many campgrounds. Eisenhower State Park offers over 150 campsites with amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages several campgrounds including Juniper Point, Johnson Creek, and Preston Bend, offering both primitive and RV sites with electrical hookups.
Cabins & Rentals
For a more comfortable stay, consider renting a cabin or vacation home. Many properties offer lakefront views, private docks, and amenities like fully equipped kitchens and outdoor grills. These options are ideal for families or groups wanting privacy and space to relax after a day on the lake.
Hotels & Resorts
Several hotels and resorts are located in nearby towns like Durant, Oklahoma, and Denison, Texas. These provide convenient access to the lake while offering amenities like swimming pools, restaurants, and comfortable rooms. Some resorts offer package deals that include boat rentals or fishing excursions.
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World-Class Fishing at Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma is renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities, particularly for striped bass. It’s one of the few freshwater lakes in the United States with a self-sustaining population of striped bass, earning its nickname as the “Striper Capital of the World.” The lake’s unique ecosystem, influenced by salt deposits in the Red River, creates perfect conditions for these prized game fish.
Top Fish Species
- Striped Bass – The lake’s signature catch, with specimens regularly exceeding 20 pounds
- Blue Catfish – Trophy-sized catches possible, with the Texas state record (121.5 pounds) caught here
- Smallmouth Bass – Excellent fishing around rocky areas and bluffs
- Largemouth Bass – Found throughout the lake near structure and vegetation
- White Bass – Abundant during spring spawning runs
- Crappie – Popular targets in fall and winter around brush piles and boat docks
Fishing Tips
- Spring (March-May): Target striped bass during their spawning runs up the Red and Washita Rivers
- Summer (June-August): Look for stripers in deeper water or early mornings when they surface to feed
- Fall (September-November): Excellent time for blue catfish and largemouth bass
- Winter (December-February): Focus on crappie around submerged structures and boat docks
- Consider hiring a local fishing guide for the best experience, especially for first-time visitors
- A Lake Texoma fishing license ($12) allows you to fish the entire lake; otherwise, state licenses restrict you to their respective waters
For the best fishing experience, consider hiring one of the many experienced guides operating on Lake Texoma. They provide boats, equipment, and invaluable local knowledge to help you locate the best fishing spots based on current conditions. Popular guide services include Striper Express and Adventure Texoma.
Water Recreation and Boating
With 89,000 acres of water and 580 miles of shoreline, Lake Texoma is a paradise for water enthusiasts. The lake’s vast expanse provides ample space for various water activities, from leisurely pontoon cruises to adrenaline-pumping water sports.
Boating
Lake Texoma features 12 marinas where you can rent various watercraft, from pontoon boats and jet skis to sailboats and fishing vessels. The lake’s size makes it especially popular for sailing, with consistent winds and open waters. Major marinas include Highport Marina, Grandpappy Point, and Catfish Bay Marina, offering rentals, slips, and supplies.
Swimming
Several designated swimming areas provide safe places to cool off during hot summer days. Eisenhower State Park offers a sandy beach area perfect for families, while other popular swimming spots include West Burns Run and East Burns Run. Always check water conditions before swimming, as blue-green algae blooms occasionally occur.
Water Sports
The open waters of Lake Texoma are ideal for water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and jet skiing. Many coves offer calmer waters perfect for beginners, while the main lake body provides more challenging conditions for experienced enthusiasts. Several outfitters around the lake rent equipment and offer lessons.
For those without their own watercraft, numerous boat rental services operate around Lake Texoma. Lake Fun Boat Rentals offers a variety of options from pontoons to jet skis, with hourly, half-day, and full-day rates available.
Hiking and Nature Exploration
Lake Texoma’s diverse ecosystem extends beyond its waters, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and nature photography. The lake is surrounded by two wildlife refuges and numerous parks with well-maintained trails suitable for all skill levels.
Top Hiking Trails
Cross Timbers Hiking Trail
Located near Juniper Point Campgrounds, this trail winds through native Cross Timbers forest, offering scenic views of the lake and opportunities to spot local wildlife. The trail system includes several interconnected loops of varying difficulty, making it suitable for both casual walkers and serious hikers.
Eisenhower State Park Trails
This Texas state park features three distinct nature trails: Fossil Ridge Trail (1.5 miles), Ike’s Hike and Bike Trail (3 miles), and Armadillo Hill Trail (0.5 miles). These well-maintained paths offer beautiful lake views, interesting geological features, and diverse plant life.
Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge
Located on the Texas side of Lake Texoma, this refuge offers several hiking trails through wetlands and upland areas. The Visitor Center Trail and Harris Creek Trail are particularly popular for bird watching, with over 300 bird species documented in the refuge.
Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge
On the Oklahoma side, this refuge provides trails through diverse habitats including wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands. The Wildlife Drive offers a 2.5-mile route accessible by car or foot, with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Wildlife Viewing
Lake Texoma’s varied habitats support diverse wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot bald eagles in winter, great blue herons year-round, and numerous migratory species during spring and fall. White-tailed deer, armadillos, and foxes are commonly seen in wooded areas, while turtles and various amphibians inhabit wetland regions.
For the best wildlife viewing experience, visit the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, which offers guided nature walks and educational programs throughout the year.
Other Attractions Around Lake Texoma
Beyond water activities and nature exploration, the Lake Texoma region offers numerous attractions to enhance your visit. From historical sites to family-friendly entertainment, there’s something for everyone in the surrounding communities.
Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site
Located in nearby Denison, Texas, this preserved home is the birthplace of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The modest house offers guided tours and exhibits about Eisenhower’s early life and legacy. History enthusiasts will appreciate this glimpse into American presidential history just a short drive from Lake Texoma.
Choctaw Casino Resort
For entertainment and dining options, visit the Choctaw Casino Resort in Durant, Oklahoma. This large complex offers gaming, concerts, multiple restaurants, and a hotel. Even non-gamblers can enjoy the entertainment venues and dining options available at this popular destination.
Grayson County Frontier Village
Step back in time at this collection of historic buildings in Denison, Texas. The village features structures from the 1800s, including a schoolhouse, chapel, and general store. Special events throughout the year showcase pioneer life and local history through demonstrations and reenactments.
The charming downtowns of Denison and Durant offer shopping, dining, and local culture. Denison’s Main Street features historic architecture, boutique shops, and local restaurants, while Durant offers similar attractions with an Oklahoma flair. Both communities host seasonal festivals and events that showcase local culture and traditions.
Dining Around Lake Texoma
The Lake Texoma region offers diverse dining options, from casual lakeside eateries to fine dining establishments. Many restaurants feature fresh local catches, particularly the lake’s famous striped bass, alongside traditional American and Southern cuisine.
Waterfront Dining
Several restaurants around Lake Texoma offer scenic water views while you dine. Island Bar & Grill at Highport Marina serves casual fare with panoramic lake views from its deck. Lighthouse Resort & Marina’s restaurant offers similar views with a menu featuring seafood and American classics. These waterfront establishments are perfect for watching sunsets while enjoying dinner.
Local Favorites
In the surrounding communities, you’ll find beloved local establishments worth visiting. Schuler’s in Denison is known for its German-inspired menu and historic building. Naifeh’s Steakhouse in Kingston, Oklahoma, serves excellent steaks and seafood in a relaxed atmosphere. For breakfast, try Huck’s Catfish in Denison, which transforms from a popular catfish restaurant in the evenings to a breakfast spot in the mornings.
Fresh Catch
Don’t miss the opportunity to taste Lake Texoma’s famous striped bass and catfish at local restaurants. Many establishments offer “catch and cook” services where they’ll prepare your day’s fishing haul. Alternatively, restaurants like Catfish Haven in Mead, Oklahoma, specialize in fresh local fish prepared in traditional Southern style.
Practical Tips for Visiting Lake Texoma
Fishing Licenses
If you plan to fish at Lake Texoma, you have two options: purchase a state fishing license (Texas or Oklahoma) which restricts you to fishing in that state’s waters, or buy a Lake Texoma license ($12) that allows you to fish the entire lake regardless of state boundaries. Licenses can be purchased online or at local bait shops and sporting goods stores.
Weather Awareness
Lake Texoma’s weather can change quickly, especially during spring and summer when thunderstorms may develop rapidly. Always check weather forecasts before boating or hiking, and be prepared to seek shelter if conditions deteriorate. The lake can become quite windy, creating challenging conditions for inexperienced boaters.
Invasive Species Prevention
Lake Texoma has zebra mussels, an invasive species that can damage equipment and ecosystems. By law, you must clean, drain, and dry all boats, trailers, and equipment before leaving the lake area to prevent spreading these invasives to other water bodies.
Cell Phone Coverage
Cell phone coverage varies around the lake, with some remote areas having limited or no service. Download maps and important information before venturing to isolated areas, and consider bringing a portable charger for extended outings.
What’s the best time of year to catch striped bass at Lake Texoma?
Spring (March-May) is generally considered the prime time for striped bass fishing at Lake Texoma, as the fish make their spawning runs up the Red and Washita Rivers. However, good fishing can be found year-round, with summer offering excellent early morning and late evening opportunities, and winter providing chances to catch larger fish in deeper waters.
Are there any beaches for swimming at Lake Texoma?
Yes, Lake Texoma has several designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. Eisenhower State Park offers a popular beach area, as do West Burns Run and East Burns Run recreation areas. Always check for current water conditions and advisories before swimming, as blue-green algae blooms occasionally occur.
Do I need reservations for camping at Lake Texoma?
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during summer months and holiday weekends when campgrounds fill quickly. Eisenhower State Park and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds accept reservations up to six months in advance. Some campgrounds offer first-come, first-served sites, but these are limited and fill early during peak seasons.
Plan Your Lake Texoma Adventure
Lake Texoma offers a perfect blend of outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and small-town charm that makes it an ideal destination for weekend getaways or extended vacations. From world-class fishing and boating to scenic hiking trails and wildlife viewing, the lake provides endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re casting a line for trophy striped bass, sailing across the expansive waters, exploring wooded trails, or simply unwinding on a sandy beach, Lake Texoma’s diverse attractions ensure memorable experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. The surrounding communities add cultural and culinary dimensions to your trip, creating a well-rounded destination that keeps visitors returning year after year.
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