Top Lake Destinations in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area and Oklahoma

The vast Dallas-Fort Worth area and Oklahoma are known for the open natural landscapes and scenic settings. If you want to cool off in the water or enjoy the serenity of a scenic lake setting, the Dallas-Fort Worth area and Oklahoma have many options worth visiting.

Let’s look at some of the picturesque lakes that are hubs for recreation and outdoor relaxation in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and Oklahoma. 

Lake Worth is a large lake in Fort Worth. This shallow lake has an average depth of just six feet but is a sought-out destination for fishing in the heart of the Dallas area. Located within the Fort Worth city limits, it may lack the nature-centric feel of other lakes in the area, but the scenic waters are a popular recreation hotspot.

Stretching over 22,000 acres in the Dallas area, the picturesque Lake Ray Hubbard is one of the biggest lakes in Northern Texas. The lake, with beaches, shops, and restaurants along the water, fills up with anglers, boaters, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts. 

Lake Arlington is a boater’s paradise, as this 50-acre lake allows boating but no swimming. There are gardens, hiking trails, fishing piers, and much more along the water of this man-made lake. Sailing lessons and boat rentals are offered lakeside, and it is an excellent place for people new to boating. 

Just 20 miles north of Dallas, you’ll find Grapevine Lake, a pleasant reservoir with deep blue waters. It is ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating. There are also over 30 miles of trails for hiking and biking along the water.

Oologah Lake, with its forested hills surrounding its deep blue water, is a popular getaway for Oklahoma and Texas residents. There is plenty to enjoy, including the beach, a boat launch, a marina, and hiking trails, one of which is 18 miles long. Oologah Lake also attracts sailors due to the windy environment of its location. 

Lake Eufaula is the largest lake in Oklahoma, expanding over 105,000 acres and consisting of more than 800 miles of shoreline. Offering marinas and boat rentals, the waters are busy with water skiers and wakeboarders, while onshore, there are gorgeous hiking trails and lovely cabins.

Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees, typically called Grand Lake, is a pleasant lake in the foothills of Oklahoma’s Ozark Mountains. It is considered one of the best lakes in the country for bass fishing and is also popular for water sports, boating, and jet skiing. And there are many vacation homes and cabin rentals along the water for visitors.

Broken Bow Lake is one of Oklahoma’s most gorgeous lakes. It has cool, clear waters filled with trout and bass. The lush green forests surrounding the water provide a more isolated, natural feel. Also, there are campgrounds, cabins, picnic areas, and beaches near the water.