Houston is a fantastic city, full of life, culture, and history. It’s a great place to live or visit, but sometimes you just want to cool off from the heat. That’s where the lakes come in! Houston has some of the best lakes in the country, and they’re perfect for swimming. Houston, Texas, has plenty of mesmerizing lakes that offer an enthralling experience for those who love to splash around in the water!
We carefully analyzed several aspects when selecting the 10 best lakes in Houston to identify lakes that offer the best possible swimming experience while ensuring that all swimmers are safe and sound. Here are the top 10 lakes in Houston that you just can’t miss:
1) Lake Conroe
The lake boasts crystal-clear blue water and soft sandy beaches, providing endless fun for swimmers of all ages.
Distance From Houston
Lake Conroe is one of the best swimming spots, just 40 miles north of Houston.
Activities And Amenities
Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely ride or an adrenaline-pumping jet ski session, Lake Conroe is the place to be. You can rent boats and jet skis from one of the several marinas available around the lake. The lake is home to various fish, including bass, catfish, and crappie.
Plenty of public beaches are scattered throughout the lake’s perimeter if you want to work on your tan. Lake Conroe Park and Sam Houston National Forest provide ample hiking, picnicking, and camping opportunities.
When hunger strikes, you won’t be disappointed. The lake has several restaurants and bars offering diverse food and drink options.
Best Time To Visit
If you plan to visit Lake Conroe for a swim, the best time is between May and September, when the water temperature is just right for a refreshing dip. However, remember that the weekends and holidays can get pretty crowded, so try to visit during the week if you want a more peaceful experience.
2) Lake Houston
You all listen now because I got some good information about Lake Houston! It’s a big lake up in Northeast Houston, and let me tell you, it’s huge – over 12,000 acres!
Distance From Houston
If you’re in Houston, you don’t have to drive too far to get to Lake Houston, which is only about 30 minutes from downtown. It’s easy-peasy to get there, even for out-of-towners!
Activities And Amenities
You can swim in designated areas like Alexander Deussen Park and Lake Houston Wilderness Park. And if you’re a fishing fanatic, you’ll be happy to know that the lake is stocked with all kinds of fish, like catfish, bass, and crappie. So bring your fishin’ rod and catch yourself some dinner!
But that’s not all – Lake Houston is also great for boatin’ and all kinds of water sports like jet skiin’ and water skiin’. Plenty of boat ramps are available to get out on the water and enjoy fun in the sun.
And if you’re more of a landlubber, don’t worry because there are trails for hiking and bikin’ too. You’ll get to see some amazing views of the beautiful landscape while getting some exercise. Plus, there are plenty of picnic areas to take a break and have a nice lunch while enjoying the scenery.
Best Time To Visit
The best time is during the summer months, from May to September. The water is warm and comfortable and perfect for cooling off.
3) Lake Livingston
It’s the perfect getaway spot for anyone looking to trade in their cubicle for a pair of swimming trunks and a good old fishing rod. And let me tell you, this lake has more recreational opportunities than a carnival on steroids!
Distance From Houston
Lake Livingston – not to be confused with Lake Livingdead – is an immense body of water about 75 miles north of Houston.
Activities And Amenities
If you’re into boating, Lake Livingston is like a candy store! Several marinas and boat ramps are available to get your sea legs quickly. And if you’re a fan of fishing, then get ready to catch more catfish, bass, and crappie than you can shake a stick at. Seriously, it’s like the fish are just begging to be caught.
But wait, there’s more! Lake Livingston State Park has a designated swimming area with a beach and picnic tables. So, pack a lunch and enjoy the waves with your family and friends. And if you’re into camping, then you’re in luck! Several parks and campgrounds surround the lake, so you can pitch a tent and sleep under the stars.
If you’re feeling fancy and want to channel your inner Tiger Woods, you can head to one of the several golf courses around the lake. There’s nothing quite like hitting a hole-in-one while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Best Time To Visit
Well, the answer is simple. The best time to visit Lake Livingston for swimming is during the summer months, from May to September. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your swimsuit, and prepare for a good splashing time at Lake Livingston!
4) Lake Somerville
Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Houston? Lake Somerville is your answer.
Distance From Houston
Located about 90 miles northwest of the city. This peaceful oasis is perfect for a weekend escape!
Activities And Amenities
There’s plenty to do here, whether you want to go boating or fishing. Lake Somerville has several boat ramps and marinas for you to use, and the lake is well-known for its abundance of catfish, bass, and crappie.
If you’re more of a beach bum, there are several designated swimming areas with beaches around the lake, including Rocky Creek Park and Overlook Park. And if you’re feeling adventurous, check out the 13-mile Lake Somerville Trailway, which runs through the woods and along the lake, for a unique hiking and biking experience.
And don’t forget about the wildlife! Lake Somerville State Park is home to various critters, including deer, raccoons, and armadillos. Who knows, maybe you’ll even spot a Sasquatch!
Best Time To Visit
If you’re planning to go swimming, the best time to visit Lake Somerville is during the summer months, from May to September. The water temperature is just right for a refreshing dip.
5) Lake Bryan
Lake Bryan is a sight to behold!
Distance From Houston
It’s at the skip and a jump away from College Station, about a hundred miles northwest of Houston. If you’re in College Station or looking for a fun day trip from Houston, here’s the spot!
Activities And Amenities
There’s plenty to do at Lake Bryan! You can dip in one of the many swimming at the beach with picnic tables and grills. If boating’s more your thing, there are several boat ramps and marinas to choose from. And if you’re an angler, you’re in for a treat – the lake is chock-full of catfish, bass, and crappie!
But wait, there’s more! If you’re up for a game of disc golf, there’s an 18-hole course that’ll keep you on your toes. And for those who prefer a stroll or bike ride, there’s a 2.8-mile trail that circles the lake.
Best Time To Visit
Now, if you’re wondering when’s the best time to visit for swimmin’, I got you covered. From April to October, the summer months are the way to go.
6) Sheldon Lake
Sheldan Lak is a lake just a little way outside Houston. You can get there by car in an instant. Folks from all over like to go there, not just the locals.
Distance From Houston
Sheldon Lake, a stunning freshwater body of water, is situated within a stone’s throw of Houston, Texas. Specifically, it lies approximately 15 miles northeast of the city and can be easily reached via automobile. It has become a preferred destination among travelers who seek practical day trips.
Activities And Amenities
There’s plenty to do there, too. If you want to go swimming, there are a few spots where you can go in, and there’s even a beach with tables and a spot to cook food. If you’re into fishing, you’re going to love it there.
There is many fish in that lake, like cats, bass, and crappie. You can watch out for alligators and birds, too. And you can rent a kayak or a canoe to explore the lake and the wetlands. If you like to hike or bike, you’re in luck because there are trails for that too. One is 1.7 miles long and goes all the way around the lake.
Best Time To Visit
If you’re planning on swimming, the best time to go is during the summer, from May to September. The water’s nice and warm then.
7) Lake Anahuac
Lake Anahuac, that’s just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Houston, you all.
Distance From Houston
So, it’s 45 miles east of Houston, which isn’t too shabby of a drive. Just put on some good tunes and enjoy the ride, folks.
Activities And Amenities
Now, let’s talk about what you can do at this here lake. You can swim, fish, check out some wildlife, go boating, or even take a nice stroll or bike ride. And guess what? There are even designated spots for swimming with picnic tables and grills. Talk about a chill day, right?
If you’re into fishing, you must hit up Lake Anahuac. They’ve got plenty of redfish, trout, and flounder for you to catch. You might even become a pro angler after spending a day at this lake; who knows?
If you’re more of an animal lover, don’t worry, you won’t be disappointed. The lake is surrounded by wetlands and is home to some crazy cool wildlife, like alligators, birds, and fish. So, keep your eyes peeled. Now, if you’re looking for some adventure, boating might just be the way to go. With several boat ramps and marinas available, you can feel like a true captain.
Best Time To Visit
Okay, folks, listen up. The best time to come to this lake for swimming is during the summer months, from May to September. It gets pretty hot during this time, but the water is perfect for swimming.
8) Lake Texana
Lake Texana is a true oasis of aquatic beauty that offers a refreshing escape from the urban heat.
Distance From Houston
Lake Texana is like, you know, this super pretty reservoir located in Jackson County, Texas. It’s around 120 miles from Houston, around two hours and 15 minutes if you drive there via US-59 S and TX-111 E.
Activities And Amenities
You can do many cool things at Lake Texana, like swimming and stuff. They have several designated swimming areas and a beach with picnic tables and grills. If you’re into fishing, Lake Texana is the place to be. You can catch a ton of catfish, bass, and crappie there. And, if you’re into boating, then this place is just perfect for you. They have a ton of boat ramps and marinas that you can use.
If you want to spend the night, don’t worry; several campsites are available, including cabins and RV sites. If you’re into wildlife, you’re lucky because Lake Texana is home to many cool animals like deer, raccoons, and birds.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Lake Texana for swimming is during the summer months, from May to September. The water temperature during this time is warm and cozy.
9) Lake Corpus Christi
Are you looking for a fun and exciting place to visit in southern Texas? Look no further than Lake Corpus Christi!
Distance From Houston
This popular destination is located about 200 miles south of Houston, and it’s jam-packed with activities and amenities for everyone.
If you’re like me, you might wonder how to get there. Fear not, my friend, for I have the answer! You can hop in your trusty car and journey in about 3.5 hours via US-59 S and US-77 S. Piece of cake, right?
Activities And Amenities
Once you arrive at Lake Corpus Christi, the real fun begins. You can cool off in a designated swimming area with a beach, picnic tables, and grills. Or, if you’re feeling like a regular ol’ fisherman, you can cast your line and reel in some catfish, bass, or crappie.
But wait, there’s more! If you’re a fan of boating, you’re in luck. There are several boat ramps and marinas available for use. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, why not spend the night? There are plenty of campsites, including cozy cabins and RV sites.
Lake Corpus Christi has you covered with its many hiking trails. Take a stroll and soak in the beautiful scenery.
Best Time To Visit
Now, let’s talk about timing. If you want to swim in warm and comfortable waters, plan your visit for the summer months, from May to September. Try visiting during the weekdays.
10) Lake Jackson
Lake Jackson, you all! Have you ever heard of it? It’s a popular freshwater lake in the city of the same name.
Distance From Houston
It is about 50 miles south of Houston. So, if you’re heading from Houston, you can easily get there by car in about an hour using TX-288 S.
Activities And Amenities:
Now, let’s talk about the fun stuff you can do there. First, if you want to take a dip, MacLean Park Swim Beach is where you want to be. They got lifeguards on duty during summer to keep you all safe.
Fishing is also a big draw at Lake Jackson. You can find all kinds of fish there, like catfish, bass, and crappie. And if you’re into boating, they have several ramps and docks.
But wait, there’s more! If you’re looking for a nice spot to have a picnic, they got several picnic areas and playgrounds for families and groups. And for those who like to stroll in nature, there are several hiking trails and spots for birdwatching. The views of the lake and the surrounding landscape are just breathtaking.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit for swimming is during the summer months. The water’s warm and comfortable, perfect for splashing around.
Conclusion
Exploring new lakes isn’t just fun; it’s a new ballgame. And Houston has the top ten lakes to ensure a swell time. You can do anything from swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking. It’s like a one-stop shop for a perfect day out or a weekend trip!
But, hey, safety first, people! While you’re swimming, make sure to follow the rules, stay in designated areas, and always swim with a buddy. There could be some sneaky dangers lurking underwater, like strong currents, rocks, or even an alligator! Overall, these lakes are a hoot and a holler to visit. Remember, safety comes first, and you’re in for a rip-roaring time! “