Lake Texoma is a large, picturesque lake that attracts plenty of visitors annually. Stay at waterfront vacation rentals at Lake Texoma and build a collection of lifelong memories by teaching your kids how to fish, going on family boat rides, making yummy s’mores, and telling ghost stories around the campfire. Since Lake Texoma is in proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth, when you feel the urge to hit the town, you’re only a car ride away. Lake Texoma is considered one of the more popular vacation destinations because it boasts a vast number of things to do and places to visit. Check out the top places to stay at in and around the area.
1. Highport Marina, Pottsboro, Texas
Highport Marina is a full-service marina that offers exciting activities for the entire family. Enjoy a luxurious ride down the lake on a pontoon, or fly through the water in a jet ski. With family friendly activities available at nighttime and daytime, there’s always fun events around. Highport Marina has one of the largest fireworks displays in the county, and a Parade of Lights during Christmas season, so you can step out of your vacation rental and see beautiful displays.
2. Big Mineral Resort, Marina and Campground, Sadler, Texas
With over 100 campsites, Big Mineral lets you camp near the sandy beaches or in a secluded woodsy area of South Park. Rent a boat and get your blood rushing on the double boat launch ramp. After you’ve worked up an appetite, BBQ at your vacation rental or head to the snack bar and grill for a delicious meal.
3. Grandpappy Point Resort and Marina, Denison, Texas
Get the little ones together for a fun-filled day of paddle boarding. Well-trained instructors assist people of all ages and skill levels, so the entire family has a safe experience. After everyone’s had their fun in the water, listen to live music while overlooking the vast beauty of Lake Texoma.
4. Flowing Wells Resort and Marina, Pottsboro, Texas
Flowing Wells Resort and Marina is easily accessible from major highways in the Dallas and Fort Worth areas, meaning that you can take a break from your vacation home to enjoy Texas-style nightlife. Flowing Wells offers exceptional lake views, in addition to a paved, two-mile roadway for walking or biking, so you can watch for wildlife and snap a few pictures as memories.
5. Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, Sherman, Texas
Located on approximately 12,000 acres, Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge provides up close access to white-front geese, mallards, and other migrant birds. While birds are the primary attraction, you’ll also see colorful wildflowers. There are many recreational opportunities for the entire family, such as fishing, hunting, hiking, and educational programs for family members who want to learn about these fascinating creatures.
6. Tanglewood Resort, Pottsboro, Texas
Whether you’re new to golfing or an advanced player, Tanglewood Resort offers something for everyone. Experience a piece of history as you play a round of golf at the 18-hole championship golf course, designed by golfing legend — Arnold Palmer. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, visit one of the fine-dining restaurants for an unforgettable meal with the family or your significant other.
7. Choctaw Casino Resort, Durant, Oklahoma
Enjoy all-day excitement at Choctaw Casino Resort, featuring the usual activities, including table games, slot machines, a poker room, and top-rated entertainment acts. However, this resort also offers enjoyable activities that don’t involve gambling. You and your friends can go bowling, play laser tag, or go to the cinema to watch movies.
8. Platter Flats Campground, Cross Timbers Region, Oklahoma
If your family owns horses, you need to make a stop at the Platter Flats Campground and enjoy a scenic journey across a more than 40 mile trail that takes you around the shores of Lake Texoma. Located on the eastern side of Lake Texoma in the Cross Timbers Region of Oklahoma, this campground also features hiking trails, allowing you to see the beauty of the campground on foot.
9. Cedar Bayou Marina, Gordonville, Texas
Paddle, hike across, or camp at Cross Timbers Trail, which is a famous, 14-mile trail. As you hike the trails that lead above the lake, these vantage points reveal a stunning view of the shores and lake that most people don’t get to see. For another unique perspective, rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the Lake Texoma Shores to see viewpoints that the hikers miss.
10. Tishomingo, Oklahoma
This small city used to be where American singer Miranda Lambert called home, and she left her mark on the town in the form of a historic shopping district. Wildlife lovers should venture to the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge, featuring over 15,000 acres of habitat where the whitetail deer, red-tailed hawk, and American bald eagle call home.