Lake houses in Lake Texoma

Stretching from North Texas to Southern Oklahoma, Lake Texoma is one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States, and a popular destination for boaters, anglers, and paddlers. With more than 500 miles of snaking shoreline and a mix of rocky and sandy beaches, it’s easy to find a Lake Texoma cabin, where you can soak in the views or snag a quiet spot for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing for largemouth and spotted bass. Texoma State Park lies on the Oklahoma side of the lake, and Eisenhower State Park sits atop the scenic cliffs in Texas; both parks offer plenty of trails, beaches, and places to dock your boat. You can also rent a boat or take a water taxi to restaurants with docks and large outdoor patios for a sunset cocktail and plate of fresh local fish.

The weather around Lake Texoma is hot from summer to mid-fall, making this the best time for swimming. Winters get chilly during the day and downright cold at night. Spring can be warm but experiences the most precipitation, so it’s a good idea to pack an umbrella and some rain gear. The Texas town of Denison has a host of annual events, including the October Fall Fest, with food vendors, live music, and a car show downtown. Fourth of July is another popular time to be on the Lake, with firework shows, live music at the lakeside bars, and parades in the surrounding towns.

Lake Texoma Islands

You’ll need to rent your own boat or hop on a water taxi to get to this small string of six islands: Hog Island, Treasure Island, North Island, West Island, Little Island, and Wood Island. The shallow and calm waters around these islands make them some of the best places to go swimming around the lake, and the sandy beaches are ideal for relaxing in a beach chair.

Eisenhower State Park

Cottonwood trees, tallgrass prairie, and wildflowers sway in the lake breezes in this protected natural area full of foxes, deer, coyotes, armadillos, beavers, and roadrunners. You’ll find beaches for swimming, fishing piers, and five miles of hiking and biking trails — as well as three trails designed for ATVs. The park provides amenities such as picnic and barbecue areas, and you’ll discover plenty of scenic lookouts that make for great photos.

Denison, Texas

Located on the Texas side of the lake, the artsy town of Denison is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring antique markets, coffee shops, book stores, and specialty shops selling clothing, gifts, and fishing gear. After a day on the lake, you can head to one of the bars hosting live music.