Discover Lake Texoma, TX

About 90 minutes north of Dallas awaits a destination with so many nooks and coves to explore that boaters are often awestruck by the hidden gems for cruising in the Lone Star State. Aptly named for its location on the border of Texas and Oklahoma, Lake Texoma was created in 1944 by damming the Red River and constructing the Denison Dam.

Sandy beaches (such as Island View Beach on Preston Peninsula), ample fishing opportunities and endless water activities are only some of the attractions that bring 6 to 9 million visitors to Lake Texoma annually.

The lake is also bordered by two state parks and is part of the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, which offers a rustic dimension to your lake vacation. Campsites, hiking and horseback tours are widespread waterfront activities.

What else makes this lake special? Lake Texoma is one of a few freshwater ecosystems with a self-sustaining population of striped bass, earning the lake the title of Striper Capitol of the World. Beside striped bass, anglers can also catch blue and channel catfish, a variety of bass (white, largemouth, spotted and smallmouth), black and white crappies, and bluegills. More than 50 largemouth bass competitions are held each year at Lake Texoma.

If fishing doesn’t float your boat, you can find plenty of other activities at Lake Texoma. In Eisenhower State Park, guided boat tours give guests the chance to explore the lake and observe wildlife, as well as join other park ranger-lead activities. Boat rentals, from kayaks and jet skis to pontoons, are available. Water Wings of Texoma offers hydro boarding lessons.

Many activities in towns surrounding the lake are popular with locals and visitors alike. Lake Texoma State Park has two 18-hole golf courses. In Kingston, OK, choose between two popular golf courses, and treat yourself to great dining options and the Texoma Casino. On the Texas side of the lake, you can feed petting zoo animals and flamingos in Gainesville at the Frank Buck Zoo. Two wineries and distilleries in the nearby towns of Denison and Sherman let visitors sample Texas craft beverages.

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WHERE TO DOCK

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Eisenhower Yacht Club

903-463-3999

Eisenhower Yacht club is a family owned and operated, full-service marina in Eisenhower State Park that offers boat rentals and has slips up to 55 feet.

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Catfish Bay Marina

580-564-2307

This full-service marina on the Oklahoma side of the lake is home to the largest floating fuel dock on the lake and a sizable convenience store. The marina offers covered boat slips as well as boat rentals and claims the best striper guides on the lake.

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Marina Del Rey

580-564-7212

Complete with campsites and Belly Flop Restaurant, Marina Del Rey is in Kingston, OK. The marina supplies only non-ethanol fuel, and the Barbay Pub hosts live music.

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WHERE TO DINE

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Caney Creek Beer Garden & Resort

580-564-3223

If you’re looking for casual meals, Caney Creek Beer Garden is the spot. With a full bar, live music on weekends, a pool table and a kitchen that serves three meals a day, you might just never leave.

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Sneaky Tiki Restaurant & Brewery

580-931-9960

Part of the Lake Texoma Lodge Resort, Sneaky Tiki is a tropical themed steakhouse and live music venue. The menu, featuring steaks and fresh seafood, is famous for Royal Red shrimp that taste like lobster. Outdoor and poolside seating is sheltered under thatched umbrellas, giving your lake getaway a beachy vibe.

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The Lakeview Steakhouse

903-786-2968

Overlooking the lake, The Lakeview Steakhouse is Tanglewood Resort’s fine dining room that is open to the public. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner with a focus on steak, pasta and seafood. A wine list and craft cocktails pair nicely with your meal.

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The Point Restaurant

903-464-0989

Located on the peninsula at Grandpappy Point Resort & Marina, the views from The Point Restaurant almost rival the food. Re-opened in 2019, The Point (2.0) has a variable menu. American classics and grilled food with a side of fried pickles satiates some diners, while others opt for a farm-to-table cut of prime rib or steak, as well as Sunday brunch.