Did you know that Lake Texoma is one of the biggest lakes in the United States? Known to locals as Texomaland or simply Texoma, this vast lake lies on the Red River between Texas and Oklahoma. It covers 89,000 acres, with an average depth of 39.9 feet and a maximum depth of 110 feet. In terms of surface area, it is the second largest lake in Oklahoma and the largest in Texas. Two-thirds of Lake Texoma lies in Oklahoma, occupying areas of Bryan, Marshall, Johnston, and Love Counties. The Texas lakefront is located in Grayson County on the northernmost part of the state.
If you’re looking for homes for sale near the lake, you can find gorgeous properties with easy lake access in surrounding towns and cities, such as Durant, Cartwright, Kingston, and Cumberland in Oklahoma.
Looking to learn more about the area communities and the exciting things to do in Lake Texoma? Read on to get an in-depth look at this amazing natural destination.
A Brief History of Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma was created between 1938 and 1944 with the construction of Denison Dam to manage the waters of the Red River. The dam was designed to generate 70,000 kilowatts of hydropower and is estimated to prevent the loss of $90 million worth of properties from flood damage. The serpentine shape of the lake adds to its unique landscape.
The shoreline is a property of the US Army Corps of Engineers, and as such, the waterfront is not available for private ownership. This has helped keep the zone in pristine condition, making it especially safe and inviting for recreational activities.
Lake Texoma Things to Do: An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Paradise
The lake is a major tourism destination in both Oklahoma and Texas, welcoming around six to nine million visitors annually. Open for recreation year-round, Lake Texoma offers a variety of things to do for both tourists and residents who enjoy living the lakefront lifestyle.
The lake is especially popular among anglers, whether professional or amateur. Water sports enthusiasts, campers, hikers, and families who want to spend time outdoors also visit Lake Texoma. The lush forests in the area are home to wildlife refuge centers offering exciting and educational family activities and other Lake Texoma events.
The lake has brackish water, which means a combination of freshwater and sea saltwater that is perfect for angling activities. This is mainly because of the natural mineral deposits from the Red River basin. It is different compared to other brackish water, such as estuaries or coastal lagoons, but still notable for a land-locked area.
The lake is also an important wildlife habitat. It is stocked with various fish species, but Lake Texoma fishing is especially known for its striped bass. The area includes the Hagerman and Tishomingo National Wildlife refuges, which encompass nearly 30,000 acres of diverse ecosystems. The wildlife species that thrive in the lake include deer, bobcats, quail, and wild turkey. The area is also a resting place for migrating birds and waterfowl, including Canadian geese and ducks, and even bald eagles.
Lake Texoma Fishing: Record-breaking Striped Bass and More
As they say, you can’t visit Lake Texoma without going fishing at least once. Anglers specifically go to the lake for some of the best catches, as well as an outstanding fishing experience that’s famed within the anglers’ community.
The lake features unique characteristics that make its fish stock highly diverse. The angler favorite is the striped bass — with the biggest catch in the lake recorded at 35.12 lbs. Lake Texoma is often called the “Striper Capital of the World.” Striped bass are saltwater fish but were introduced in the lake in the 1960s, and their population has thrived ever since. The lake is one of the few places in the country where striped bass are able to reproduce naturally, as the brackish water keeps the eggs from sinking to the bottom.
Besides the striped bass, the lake is also home to largemouth and smallmouth bass – which are also favorites among anglers, especially beginners. Other species in Lake Texoma are crappies, catfish that are bigger than usual, and the pre-historic alligator gar. The most common catfish catches for Lake Texoma fishing are blue, channel, and flathead. Alligator gars grow as big as 170 lbs. To preserve these pre-historic fish however, there is a limit of one gar per day per fisher, and during May, fishing for gars is prohibited.
Swimming and Other Water Activities Abound
Lake Texoma boasts several beaches and swimming areas that are frequented by locals and visitors alike. Kayaking, wakeboarding, and paddle boarding are also popular activities. There are several hidden coves perfect for those who want a quieter time by the water.
If you have a boat, you can take it out to the lake for a day of exploration. The many marinas in the area also offer various watercraft for rent, such as paddleboats, sailboats, houseboats, and more. You can also rent pontoons, which are flat boats or tubes designed to remain buoyant and have spacious decks that may be fitted with bars, lounge areas, or sun pads.
Sailing and Cruising Are Among Popular Things to Do at Lake Texoma
Unwind and relax in style by sailing on the Compass Rose. An 1800s Brigantine tall pirate ship, the Compass Rose, which is undergoing renovations, treats guests to a great time around Lake Texoma through private sails, historic day sails, and moonlight sails. Sailing on the Compass Rose is a unique experience as she is one of the last remaining active brigantines in the world.
A fan of sunsets? You will love the sunset cruises offered by Fastrac Boat Charters and Cruises. The only charter service in Lake Texoma, Fastrac Charters offers private charters and several cruising experiences. In addition to sunset cruises, you can also go on a dinner cruise, a Murder Mystery Cruise, and more.
Golfing in Lake Texoma Is No Ordinary Experience
With breathtaking views of the lake and the lush surroundings, you’re treated not only to a satisfying game but also to a relaxing visual feast. One of the best places to go is Chickasaw Pointe Golf Club, which features a 7011-yard Championship layout with Bermuda grass fairways and Champion Ultra Dwarf greens. The country style clubhouse includes a restaurant that serves classic American favorites.
Lake Texoma State Parks Are Renowned
Two state parks were created for the lake – Lake Texoma State Park in Oklahoma and Eisenhower State Park in Texas.
Explore the Eisenhower State Park
Southwest of the lake is the Eisenhower State Park, which offers plenty of opportunity for Lake Texoma Camping. Encompassing 423.1 acres, the park features a grassy landscape, woodlands, and some rocky shoreline bluffs. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the varying species of wildflowers and trees in the park, such as elm, oak, ash, cheddar, and persimmon, to name a few. Small mammals also make their home in the park, such as armadillos, rabbits, foxes, mink, and raccoons. Drop by the park headquarters to see some lake fossils on display.
Discover Lake Texoma State Park
In addition to fishing and an array of watersports, Lake Texoma State Park offers various recreation, including swimming, camping, picnic areas, wildlife viewing opportunities and hiking. With all of the amenities you’d want, such as striper guide fishing services, comfort stations with showers, boat ramps, and the Catfish Bay Marina, you’ll find everything you need to plan an outdoor adventure.
Lake Texoma Camping Is Second to None
Camping is one of the best things to do with the family in Lake Texoma. With several campsites found in the lake, families can choose from tent, cabin, or RV camping. Most campsites and accommodations come with amenities for grilling and bonfires.
The Lake Texoma State Park Campground has over 120 modern and semi-modern RV sites and 160 tent sites. The Juniper Point Park and Campgrounds, an Army Corps of Engineers park, has 44 campsites and a great location close to the Cross Timbers hiking trail and the beach.
Other top campsites in the lake include Burns Run East and Burns Run West, RV Station & Resort in Colbert, Johnson Creek Campground, and more.
Hiking and Biking Top the List of Things to Do in Lake Texoma
Looking for adventures away from the water? The area is surrounded by lush forests with miles of hiking and biking trails. The Click Cross Timbers Trail on the Texas side is a 15-mile trail that starts at Juniper Point and continues west to the lake. Considered one of the best trails in Texas, Click Cross Timbers has a moderate rating, so be sure to warm up and stretch. Don’t worry about getting lost though, as it is well-marked, and there’s signage at every mile.
On the Oklahoma side, hikers of all skill levels will enjoy the Texoma Interpretive Trail within Lake Texoma State Park. The trail stretches 1.5 miles and features wonderful views of the lake along the way.
Visit Wildlife Refuges to Experience Nature Close Up
On the southern side, the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge spans 12,000 acres and is home to pelicans, geese, turkeys, bobcats, and deer, among others. Guests who enjoy birding can also spot various songbirds and hawks in the refuge.
Another wildlife sanctuary on the lake’s upper Washita warm is the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge. Spanning 16,464 acres, it includes the 4,500-acre Cumberland Pool that hosts diverse ecosystems for aquatic plants and animals. The area is also frequently visited by migratory waterfowl. To support these visitors, wheat and corn are grown on the 900 acres of the park for waterfowl foraging.
You can also visit the Fobb Bottom Wildlife Management Area, a 2,245-acre wildlife area with game species such as deer, wild turkey, rabbit, coyote, bobcat, raccoons, waterfowl, and doves. Bald eagles also foray into the area but are protected from being hunted. Hunter and angler camping are permitted in specific locations.
Capturing Things to Do in Texoma on Film
Photographing wildlife is one of the things visitors enjoy most. And the scenic views on Lake Texoma deserve to be captured on camera with landscape and portrait photography. Whether you’re using your mobile phone or a professional camera, moments from your Lake Texoma visits will surely be worth remembering. Not to mention they make exceptional photos to share on social media.
Things to do in Lake Texoma: Beyond the Great Outdoors
In addition to the exciting outdoor things to do in Texoma, there is an array of choices for dining, entertainment, and shopping. The resorts in the area offer a myriad of activities, including tennis, spa, chartered tours, or a visit to a Lake Texoma casino.
Check Out Our Most-loved Lake Texoma Restaurants
One of the best-loved restaurants in the area is Burger Shoppe in downtown Kingston. Claiming to serve the “Best Hamburgers on Lake Texoma,” Burger Shoppe is frequented by Texoma locals and visitors who never leave disappointed by the food or service. This burger joint also whips up other excellent sandwiches and sides, and their desserts are popular too, particularly their ice cream float.
Anchor N is another must-try eatery in the area. Located at Buncombe Creek Resort, this casual dining place serves delicious comfort food such as chicken-fried steak, meatloaf, Cajun catfish, and more.
Other popular restaurants in Lake Texoma include Pelican’s Landing in Cedar Mills Marina, which boast splendid views of the lake as well as excellent steaks, burgers, and seafood. Alberta Creek Resort Floating Cafe offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience on the water, with the pancakes and the chicken fried steak as the crowd favorites.
Shopping Is One of the Favorite Things to Do at Lake Texoma
Similar to outdoor activities, there is no shortage of fun retail options for guests in Lake Texoma. These include boutiques, indoor malls, and outlet malls, offering everything from unique gift items to high fashion apparel, home goods, antiques, and more.
Grabbing essentials is easy as well, with big box stores like Walmart Supercenter and Super C Mart conveniently located in the area. There are also plenty of shops specializing in boating and fishing supplies, outdoor gear, and camping equipment.
Some of the places to visit include:
- The Oasis in Pottsboro, TX. This charming shop boasts a rustic design and offers the latest in fashion and lifestyle. The place features a large apparel collection, as well as home items like candles, pillows, and tableware.
- Junk Stars in Tishomingo, OK. Come for their eclectic art masterpieces, usually from recycled and repurposed materials. Available items include furniture, paintings, clothing, decor, and more.
- Lighthouse Marina Fueldock and General Store in Pottsboro, TX. A wonderful shop on the water, Lighthouse Marina sells all your watercraft maintenance needs, as well as fishing supplies and equipment, barbeque essentials, and more. Watercraft rentals are also available here.
Plan a Party at the Islands
There are five islands on the lake – Hog Island, Little Island, Treasure Island, Wood Island, West Island, and North Island. Known as The Islands Party Area, they are popular destinations for parties, picnics, and gatherings.
Spending time with friends? Make the most of your trip by partying all day or night at Lake Texoma Party Island. This attraction is actually a group of five islands that you can reach by a private boat or a water taxi. The most popular spot in Texoma, people come to the Islands for revelry both on water and on land. This is especially great after a full day of hiking, fishing, swimming, and other water activities.
Lake Texoma Casino Adventures: Something for Everyone
If you’re in for a night or two of gaming, you can find quite a few choices, including Texoma Casino and Megastar Casino, both in Kingston, OK, and the Choctaw Casinos & Resorts, located in Durant. Casino visits in Texoma offer nightlife activities but also much more. These venues are perfect spots to take the family for a resort-style pool experience or an A-list concert. These all-in-one entertainment destinations feature films, spas, and shopping as well.
Lake Texoma Events : Arts and Family Fun
At Durant Main Street, you can find the Magnolia Farmers Market every Saturday between May and October. There’s also no shortage of special events in the area—here are a few of our favorites:
- Magnolia Festival: A three-day event hosted at the Choctaw Event Center in Durant featuring festivities like an outdoor carnival, Magnolia 5k and Fun Run, free children’s activities, fireworks, and more.
- Reuel Little Classic Half Marathon: An annual event at Madill.
- Denison Arts and Jazz Fest: Multiple styles of jazz and one-of-a-kind art vendors.
- Oklahoma Shakespearean Festival: An afternoon of arts and culture at the SE Visual and Performing Arts Center in Durant.
Planning Your Stay at Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma is home to numerous resorts that cater to various preferences. You can choose to stay in laidback cabins, upscale villas, or anything in between. Whatever your preference, you can expect amazing amenities, such as swimming pools, hot tubs, game rooms, and more. Some resorts boast a private lake for guests’ exclusive enjoyment.
Dockominiums are gaining popularity right now, with hotel-like amenities right on the water. Initially, these houses were designed to be simple boat houses, but over time, they have evolved into floating condominiums. They come with amenities and features like satellite TVs, washers and dryers, pool tables, covered deck bars and grills, and private docks.
One of the top resorts to check out is Lake Texoma Lodge and Resort, a family-friendly establishment with a large outdoor area for the kids. Traveling with your pets? The Caney Creek Resort is a favorite among guests who enjoy exploring with their fur buddies!
If you’re looking for something more permanent, we can help you find the right option for homes in Durant, Silo, Kingston and the surrounding areas.
Enjoy Things to Do Lake Texoma Year-round: Let Us Help You Find the Perfect Home
With its beautiful location and many recreational activities, moving here is one of the best decisions you can make. We at American Dream Realty can help you find your dream home.
We are a multi-broker company specializing in lakefront property, including luxury, mobile, farm, and single-family homes. We bring years of experience in the Lake Texoma real estate market and utilize cutting-edge digital technology to give you a smooth and seamless home buying experience.
Get in touch with us today at 580.931.8888 or leave us a note here to get started.
