by Ray Roman Updated on Oct 30, 2023
Are you planning a trip to Lake Texoma and wondering which state it belongs to? It is formed by Denison Dam on the Red River, which is situated in both Bryan County, Oklahoma, and Grayson County, Texas.
Is Lake Texoma in Texas or Oklahoma? Lake Texoma is a large reservoir located in both Texas and Oklahoma. It straddles the border between both states, with the state boundary line running along the lake.
Lake Texoma is the largest reservoir in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Tulsa District and the 12th largest lake in the USACE overall. Source: a-z-animals.com
Lake Texoma is a popular destination for fishing, boating, camping, and other outdoor activities. With its expansive size and beautiful scenery, it attracts millions of visitors each year. However, because it is situated on the border between two states, there is often confusion about which state it actually belongs to. In this article, we will provide you with a clear answer to the question of whether Lake Texoma is in Texas or Oklahoma.
Location
If you are wondering about the location of Lake Texoma, it is situated on the border of Texas and Oklahoma. The lake is formed by Denison Dam on the Red River, which flows through both states.
Oklahoma Side
On the Oklahoma side of Lake Texoma, you will find the Bryan County portion of the lake. The Washita River feeds into Lake Texoma on the Oklahoma side, and the lake spans across two counties in Oklahoma.
Texas Side
On the Texas side of Lake Texoma, you will find the Grayson County portion of the lake. The lake spans four counties in Texas.
Lake Texoma is located about 60 miles north of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. The lake is one of the largest reservoirs in the United States and is the 12th largest Corps lake in the country.
If you are planning to visit Lake Texoma, it is essential to know that the lake is managed by both the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The lake offers a variety of recreational activities, such as fishing, camping, hiking, and boating.
In summary, Lake Texoma is located on the border of Texas and Oklahoma, formed by Denison Dam on the Red River, and spans across 2 counties in Oklahoma and 4 counties in Texas.
Recreation
When it comes to recreation, Lake Texoma has something for everyone. Whether you’re an avid angler, a boating enthusiast, a hiker, or just looking to relax in nature, Lake Texoma has you covered. Here are some of the most popular recreational activities you can enjoy at Lake Texoma.
Fishing
Lake Texoma is known as the “Striper Fishing Capital of the World,” and for good reason. The lake is home to some of the best striped bass fishing in the country. In addition to striped bass, you can also catch other popular game fish like crappie, Channel catfish, Blue Catfish, White Bass, and largemouth bass. If you’re new to fishing or want to improve your skills, there are plenty of fishing guides available to help you out.
Boating
Lake Texoma is a boater’s paradise. With over 89,000 acres of water, there’s plenty of room to explore. Whether you’re into water skiing, wakeboarding, or just cruising around, Lake Texoma has it all. There are also plenty of marinas and boat ramps available, so you can easily launch your boat and hit the water.
Camping
If you’re looking to spend some time in nature, Lake Texoma has plenty of camping options available. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from. Some of the most popular campgrounds include Eisenhower State Park, Juniper Point, and Platter Flats.
Hiking
If you’re looking to stretch your legs and explore the great outdoors, Lake Texoma has plenty of hiking trails available. One of the most popular trails is the Cross Timbers Hiking Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The trail is 14 miles long and is rated as moderate, so it’s a great option for hikers of all skill levels.
Overall, Lake Texoma is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re into fishing, boating, camping, or hiking, Lake Texoma has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Lake Texoma.
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State Parks
If you’re planning a visit to Lake Texoma, you’ll have several state parks to choose from. Eisenhower State Park and Lake Texoma State Park are two of the most popular options.
Eisenhower State Park
Located in Grayson County, Texas, Eisenhower State Park covers over 400 acres on the south side of Lake Texoma. The park features a variety of amenities, including:
- Cabins
- Campsites
- Hiking trails
- Swimming beach
- Boat ramp
- Fishing pier
- Playground
- Picnic areas
The park also has a restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you’re looking for a place to stay, you can choose from one of the park’s 143 campsites or rent one of the 20 cabins available.
Lake Texoma State Park
On the Oklahoma side of Lake Texoma, you’ll find Texoma State Park. The park covers over 1,000 acres and offers a range of recreational activities, including:
- Camping
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Wildlife viewing
Texoma State Park has two campgrounds, one of which is open year-round. The park also has several picnic areas, a swimming beach, and a boat ramp.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, you can choose from one of the park’s 47 cabins or rent one of the RV sites available.
Other entities like Cedar Mills, Highport Marina, Pointe Vista, and Resort are not state parks but they offer recreational activities like camping, cabins, pool, marinas, and restaurants.
Wildlife
One of the biggest draws of Lake Texoma is the wildlife that can be found in and around it. The lake is home to a variety of animal species, including many that are native to the area.
National Wildlife Refuge
If you’re interested in seeing some of the local wildlife up close, you should definitely consider visiting the National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is home to a wide variety of animals, including deer, wild turkey, and bald eagles.
Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge
Another great place to see wildlife near Lake Texoma is the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is home to thousands of Canadian and Snow geese, various shorebirds, and several species of ducks. In addition to these migratory birds, there are also many native animals that call the refuge home year-round.
When visiting these wildlife refuges, it is important to remember to respect the animals and their habitats. Do not disturb or feed the animals, and be sure to stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the environment.
It is also important to be aware of any invasive species that may be present in the area. These species can be harmful to the local ecosystem and can cause damage to both the environment and other native species. Be sure to follow any guidelines or regulations put in place to prevent the spread of invasive species and report any sightings to the appropriate authorities.
Overall, Lake Texoma is a great place to experience the beauty and diversity of the local wildlife. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing outdoor activity, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
History
Lake Texoma is a man-made lake that was created by the construction of Denison Dam on the Red River. The project was authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1938 and was completed in 1944 by the US Army Corps of Engineers. The lake spans over 89,000 acres and is located on the border between Texas and Oklahoma.
The construction of the lake was a significant engineering feat that required the relocation of several towns and the creation of new infrastructure. The lake was designed to provide flood control, hydroelectric power, and water supply to the surrounding areas. Today, it is also a popular recreational destination for boating, fishing, and camping.
The creation of Lake Texoma required the flooding of several communities and farmlands. The town of Gordonville, TX, and parts of Tishomingo, Oklahoma, were among the areas that were submerged by the lake. The displacement of these communities was a significant disruption to the lives of the residents, but it was deemed necessary for the greater good of flood control and water supply.
The lake has played a vital role in the development of the surrounding regions. It has provided a reliable source of water for irrigation, which has helped to support the agricultural industry in the area. The lake has also been a significant factor in the growth of tourism in the region. The lake draws visitors from all over the country who come to enjoy the recreational opportunities it offers.
In conclusion, Lake Texoma has a rich history that is tied to the development of the surrounding regions. It has played a significant role in flood control, hydroelectric power, water supply, and tourism. The construction of the lake required the relocation of several communities, but it has provided many benefits to the surrounding areas.
Is Lake Texoma in Texas or Oklahoma? Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Lake Texoma is a unique and beautiful body of water that straddles the Texas-Oklahoma border. This massive reservoir is one of the largest in the United States and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts from both states and beyond.
Whether you are a Texomaland local or a visitor from the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, there is plenty to see and do at Lake Texoma. From fishing for stripers with Advantage Guide Service to enjoying the water during Memorial Day and Labor Day celebrations, there is something for everyone.
However, it is important to note that Lake Texoma faces some challenges, such as the spread of invasive species like zebra mussels. To help protect this vital resource, it is important to follow all regulations and programs in place to prevent the spread of these harmful creatures.
Overall, Lake Texoma is a true gem of the Southwest and a testament to the natural beauty of the region. Whether you are a fisherman, boater, or just someone who enjoys spending time in nature, this incredible lake is definitely worth a visit.
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