So…you’ve recently moved to the Houston area (or at least you’re thinking about it).
Either way, if you think about Houston as a bustling city rife with technology and business opportunities, you aren’t wrong. However, right in the heart of the city and in the surrounding areas, there are also plenty of lakes for you to enjoy.
Whether you are looking for a place for outdoor recreation and leisure, or you have your eye on a fish species you would like to target, these are the 15 best lakes in Houston across all 88 of the city’s super neighborhoods.
Sheldon Lake
| Distance from Houston | 20 miles (30 minutes) |
| Fishing Permitted | Yes |
| Activities | Bird watching, fishing, boating, hiking |
As you work through this list of the top lakes in Houston, you’ll notice that each lake has some specific features it’s known for. When it comes to Sheldon Lake, you’ll quickly realize that it is a hot spot for bird watchers.
Sheldon Lake attracts both migratory and resident birds, offering excellent bird-watching opportunities all year long. Take a trip to the observation tower and soak up the panoramic views. Here, you’ll have the perfect vantage point for a day of bird-watching.
Established in 1943, Sheldon Lake is also popular for fishing and boating. It’s home to various species, including largemouth bass, crappie, and sunfish. However, locals will tell you that Sheldon Lake is not the best Houston fishing lake as it’s not as active as other spots.
McGovern Lake
| Distance from Houston | 2 miles (10 minutes) |
| Fishing Permitted | Yes (catch-and-release) |
| Activities | Pedal boating, bird watching, fishing |
Located within Hermann Park, McGovern Lake is in the heart of the city. This picturesque lake spans approximately 8 acres and is the perfect spot for pedal boating.
Pedal boat rentals are available for $13 for a 30-minute ride. Catch-and-release fishing is another popular activity. McGovern Lake is a good spot for families, and it’s open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Locals will tell you that as great as McGovern Lake is, but be aware that it gets quite busy on the weekends.
Houston County Lake
| Distance from Houston | 120 miles (2 hours) |
| Fishing Permitted | Yes |
| Campgrounds Nearby | Yes (campgrounds with RV facilities) |
| Activities | Kayaking, jet skiing, camping, fishing |
Houston County Lake, situated in Crockett, Texas, is a hub for water sports. It’s about two hours from Houston to get to Houston County Lake, so you’ll be well removed from the city.
When you’re at Houston County Lake, you can enjoy kayaking, jet skiing, and boating aplenty. Among water sports enthusiasts (and outdoor enthusiasts), this spot is known for its camping facilities and clean water.
As clean and pristine as Houston County Lake is, note that the facilities are a bit more outdated than those of other Houston lakes.
Lake Anahuac
| Distance from Houston | 45 miles (1 hour) |
| Fishing Permitted | Yes (both saltwater and freshwater) |
| Activities | Fishing, boating, wildlife viewing |
Just 45 miles east of downtown Houston, Lake Anahuac, historically known as Turtle Bay, offers a serene environment for outdoor lovers on the Gulf Coast. One of the unique things about Lake Anahuac is that it offers both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
Some popular species include red drum, flounder, and catfish.
Lake Anahuac is also equipped with two boat ramps, making it easy for visitors to launch their boats and explore the waters. The only real complaint people have about Lake Anahuac is the bugs, so wear some bug spray when you visit!
Lake Conroe
| Distance from Houston | 55 miles (1 hour 15 minutes) |
| Fishing Permitted | Yes |
| Activities | Boating, water skiing, fishing, swimming |
With its sprawling 21,000 acres, Lake Conroe is a go-to spot for water sports enthusiasts. Like to swim, boat, water ski, and fish? This is where you’ll want to be. Lake Conroe also has breathtaking sunsets, which are the perfect backdrop for any day on the water.
Fair warning: With all the recreational boats in the area and the easy access to water sports, Lake Conroe tends to get very busy on the weekends during boating season.
Once you’ve stored your boat for the evening, there are several seafood restaurants near Lake Conroe, including Monty’s Lighthouse and Pacific Yard House–perfect for a late dinner.
Clear Lake
| Distance from Houston | 25 miles (40 minutes) |
| Fishing Permitted | Yes |
| Activities | Kayaking, jet skiing, swimming, sailing |
Clear Lake, a brackish lake, is a favorite among boating and fishing enthusiasts, especially those who sail. If you’re a newcomer to the sport, there are lessons and chartered trips for those who enjoy sailing.
The surrounding area is rich in wildlife, including alligators and river otters. You’ll just have to deal with some traffic getting to Clear Lake during the season. But once you are there, it’s a great spot.
Lake Livingston
| Distance from Houston | 80 miles (1 hour 20 minutes) |
| Fishing Permitted | Yes |
| Campgrounds Nearby | Yes (RV-friendly campgrounds available) |
| Activities | Fishing, jet skiing, tubing, camping |
Lake Livingston, the second-largest lake in Texas, spans 90,000 acres with a maximum depth of 77 feet. This massive lake offers a wide range of recreational facilities, including marinas and camping accommodations.
With 450 miles of shoreline, you’ll have your pick of water-based activities and sand beaches. Fishing, jet skiing, and tubing bring thousands of visitors to Lake Livingston every year.
Kinder Lake
| Distance from Houston | 1 mile (5 minutes) |
| Fishing Permitted | No |
| Activities | Kayaking, R/C sailboats, family picnics |
Located at Discovery Green, Kinder Lake is just a short drive from downtown Houston and is open daily from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm.
Here, visitors can enjoy kayaking and even rent R/C sailboats, making it a hit for kids and adults alike. The park also features multiple barbecue pits, ideal for a day of outdoor cooking and relaxation.
Although, some people say Kinder Lake is best for a half-day trip as opposed to a full day out on the lake.
Addicks Reservoir
| Distance from Houston | 20 miles (30 minutes) |
| Fishing Permitted | No |
| Activities | Hiking, walking, dog park, golfing |
Take a good look at the weather forecast before heading to Addicks Reservoir. There are great trails around the Reservoir, but if there has been rain, you’ll deal with a lot of mud. Otherwise, Addicks Reservoir is excellent for hiking and walking.
Picnic areas equipped with tables and grills make it a great location for a family outing.
Bear Creek Park within Addicks Reservoir offers various sports facilities, including a golf course and playing fields. For dog owners, the Bill Archer Dog Park provides a designated area for pets to play.
Barker Reservoir
| Distance from Houston | 22 miles (35 minutes) |
| Fishing Permitted | Yes |
| Activities | Fishing, hiking, wildlife watching, biking, and golfing |
Barker Reservoir offers activities like fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching–but make sure you go early in the day so you can find a parking spot.
Bicycling and golfing are also popular here.
Sabine Lake
| Distance from Houston | 90 miles (1 hour 40 minutes) |
| Fishing Permitted | Yes |
| Activities | Fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing |
What was once a major shipping location in the 19th century, Sabine Lake is now a popular destination for anglers.
The lake offers year-round fishing. Here, you’ll catch fish species like kings, amberjack, red snapper, speckled trout, and dorado.
If you are looking for scenic trails or a picturesque reservoir, however, you may want to go elsewhere; Sabine Lake is a bit more of an industrial location.
Arboretum Lake
| Distance from Houston | 9 miles (15 minutes) |
| Fishing Permitted | No |
| Activities | Hiking, jogging, bird-watching |
Arboretum Lake, located at the Houston Arboretum, is open daily from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.
The nature trails at Arboretum Lake are perfect for jogging and hiking. However, for most people, the real draw is the educational opportunities.
Just make sure to bring your sunscreen because there is not a lot of protection from the sun on these trails.
Summary
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Lakes Near Houston That Offer Camping?
Absolutely! Houston County Lake and Lake Livingston both have great camping options, perfect for a weekend escape.
Which Lake Is Best for Bird Watching in Houston?
Sheldon Lake is the best spot for bird watching in Houston, thanks to its diverse bird species and great viewing opportunities. You’ll love the variety it offers!
How Many Lakes Are in Houston Texas?
The Houston area has over 70 lakes and reservoirs. It’s a hot spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, bird watching, and more.
What Is the Cleanest Lake in Texas?
Lake Amistad is often considered one of the cleanest lakes in Texas. It is known for its clear waters and scenic beauty.
What Is the Closest Ocean Beach to Houston, Texas?
The closest ocean beach to Houston is at Galveston Island, roughly an hour’s drive from the city.
Is Lake Houston Good for Boating?
Yes, Lake Houston is popular for boating. Its wide expanse of water is perfect for recreational activities.
