There’s nothing better to quench that melty-hot summer riding feeling than jumping into the cool waters of a river, lake or spring, and in Texas we have so many options. Taking a dip is way better than standing outside an EZ Mart pouring a bottle of cold water over your head while comfortable car-encased onlookers gawk at this person taking an outdoor shower.
Prairies & Lakes Region
Here are some of the favorite swimming stops for riders in the Prairies & Lakes Region of Texas, according to our BEST IN TEXAS Readers’ Choice Awards.
Big Rocks Park, Glen Rose
Right outside of the motorcycle mecca of Glen Rose, Big Rocks Park is exactly as advertised, big boulders in the Paluxy River. Climb goat-like on the rocks or lurk among them in the water like a mock-pirahna waiting for your friends to swim by—it’s your day. A definite daytrip dipping highlight. Find it: On TX 144 just east of downtown Glen Rose.
Lake Whitney State Park, Whitney
Lake swimming conveniently located near the DFW Metroplex but far enough away to be in a rural setting, Find it: IH 35 to the Hillsboro exit. In Hillsboro take TX 22 west to Whitney and follow the signs. Park is at the end of FM 1244.
Possum Kingdom State Park, Caddo
Perennial North Texas favorite, and rightly so. Possum Kingdom Lake is set among the hills of the Rolling Plains near the famous FM 4 and TX 16. From US 180 in Caddo, take Park Road 33 north 17 miles.
