This large body of fresh water is a place for year-round outdoor pursuits, wildlife, fossils and gorgeous scenery.
Escape to Lake Whitney, a popular outdoor recreation destination in the heart of Texas. The large body of fresh water is on the Brazos River and encompasses more than 35 square miles (91 square kilometers) of water and 40 square miles (104 square kilometers) of countryside. Hike a nature trail, scuba dive or dig up fossils.
Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle down the Brazos River. Stop for a swim in the clear water and rest on a river bank. Alternatively, cruise the lake on a pontoon or sailboat. The lake also hosts numerous watersports including wakeboarding, kneeboarding and waterskiing.
Fish for bass, catfish and crappie. Hire a local fishing guide who can tell you the location of the best fishing spots. Venture under the water on a scuba diving trip to see sunken boats.
In more than a dozen parks surrounding the lake you’ll find sandy beaches, picnic areas, boat ramps and restrooms.
Away from the water, Lake Whitney can fill your vacation with many more exciting activities and attractions. Go horseback riding over 3,000 acres (1,214 hectares) of equestrian trails. Hike through the terrain looking for local wildlife. The lake area attracts approximately 300 migratory and non-migratory bird species and mammals, such as wild turkeys and white-tailed deer. Look for swallow nests on the limestone cliffs. Walk along the shoreline searching for fossils. Many ancient remains have been found here over the years.
If you like delving into the past, visit two nearby historic sites. See footprints left by prehistoric creatures at Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose. Waco Mammoth Site in Waco has a large concentration of mammoth remains.
Located in Hill County, Lake Whitney is 92 miles (148 kilometers) south of Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Many visitors rent a car for the freedom to move around the area.
With warm winters and summers, Lake Whitney is a good vacation spot throughout the year. Stay in a lakeside campground or cabin or a hotel in downtown Whitney.
