6 East Texas Lakes Perfect for Your Next Boating Adventure

Nov 5, 2015

East Texas is home to some of the most gorgeous lakes in the country, so naturally boating is a major pastime here. Whether you’re planning to haul your own boat to the lake with your Volkswagen Touareg or you’re considering renting one at your destination, here are a few nearby lakes you’ll want to experience for yourself.

1. Lake O’ The Pines

Located about two and a half hours east of Dallas just north of Longview, Lake O’ The Pines is a tranquil reservoir sitting on 16,919 acres of land flanked by pine trees – hence the name. This lake offers more than a dozen boat ramps, so gaining access is easy. And thanks to the lake’s diverse fish community, including white bass, largemouth bass, and crappie, you’ll have plenty of angling opportunities.

2. Lake Tyler

Another favorite lake in the pineywoods region, Lake Tyler is a major recreational area for nearby residents. Boating is an essential hobby here, but if you want more activities to fill your day, Lake Tyler provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, swimming, camping, water skiing, and fishing. Lake Tyler is so renowned as a boating destination in Texas that it was home to the 2005 HGTV Dream Home.

3. Nacogdoches Lake

About three hours southeast of Dallas, Nacogdoches Lake offers a laid-back boating and fishing experience that will keep you coming back for more. This peaceful lake is home to largemouth bass, crappie, and sunfish. Furthermore, the lake has been known to produce trophy-sized bass exceeding 13 pounds. Due to the high numbers of bluegill and redear sunfish in the water, Nacogdoches Lake is perfect for beginner as well as experienced anglers.

4. Lake Grapevine

Located in the heart of Dallas/Fort Worth, Lake Grapevine is an 8,000-acre reservoir that provides residents with a plethora of outdoor activities. Best of all, you don’t have to drive far to take advantage of Lake Grapevine’s recreational activities. Enjoy hiking, camping, and boating throughout the park, and feel a world away from the busy Metroplex.

5. Cooper Lake

Located at Cooper Lake State Park about an hour and a half northeast of Dallas, Cooper Lake (also known as Jim Chapman Lake) consists of more than 19,000 surface acres prime for boating. Being a state park, Cooper Lake also offers a variety of other activities beyond fishing and boating, including swimming, camping, picnicking, horse trails, ranger programs, and more. Anglers will particularly love the abundant catfish and white bass.

6. Lake Palestine

This freshwater lake features five public boat launches and more than a dozen private marinas operated by campgrounds, motels, and others, making it a great destination for any boating adventure. Located about an hour and a half southeast of Dallas, Lake Palestine has plenty of surrounding opportunities for camping, picnicking, and parking.

Why waste gas driving around trying to find that perfect boating adventure? Because East Texas is home to many recreational lakes ideal for every member of the family, you can start planning your boating excursion now.

Image via Pixabay