Laying at the fork of the Trinity river, Lake Worth has a beautiful landscape to explore. A short trip out of downtown Fort Worth, the lake is home to abundant wildlife and a treasure trove of trails and pathways to explore. Make sure to visit the nearby Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge, which plays a big part in local animal conservation projects.
Head north of Fort Worth 15mi (24km) to Eagle Mountain Lake’s 9,000 acres (3,642 hectares), a huge draw to the area. Providing excellent water sports, boating and hiking opportunities, Eagle Mountain Lake is every adventurer’s dream. With plenty of Lake Homes and camp sites lining the shoreline, it gives the perfect opportunity to extend your stay and get the most of what Eagle Mountain Lake has to offer.
Based just a few miles north of the town of Grapevine, the lake has plenty to offer. Best known for its recreational boating, hiking and camping activities, the lake has plenty of outdoor pursuits available. However, if you feel worn out by all the action, drop into the nearby town to try some of the area’s locally produced wine, made by several vineyards dotted around the town.
A fisherman’s dream, the tranquil Benbrook Lake is among the rolling hills and meadowlands located 10mi (16km) south of Fort Worth. Constructed in 1952, the lake is home to a huge variety of fish, including largemouth bass, crappie and catfish. If fishing isn’t your cup of tea, the lake also has plenty of activities to offer, such as picnicking, camping and bird watching.
Laying in the center of North Texas, Lake Bridgeport covers a massive 12,000 acres (4,856 hectares) of scenic countryside. Outside of the usual activities available around the lake, just a few miles over, there are plenty of other sports available, including several tennis courts, baseball fields and an 18-hole golf course. Camping is available at the Wise County Park on the northern shore of the lake, with boat hire from the several marinas around the shoreline.
Going west of Fort Worth, you will come across Possum Kingdom Lake, or PK as it is known locally. With a slightly livelier feel than some of the other lakes mentioned on this list, PK is a must-visit lake during the summer months. With Jet Skis and water sports available and several marinas around the lake, Possum Kingdom has plenty to offer. Be sure to visit on Independence Day, when the lake plays host to a massive celebration, including a breathtaking fireworks display.