Best lakes around Carrollton offer diverse recreational opportunities within and near the city. Carrollton, Texas, is situated in a region with access to several large lakes, providing extensive options for outdoor enthusiasts. These bodies of water cater to various activities, from fishing and water sports to hiking and family outings. The area's natural landscape features both urban lakes and vast reservoirs, making it a destination for different types of lakeside experiences.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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Hidden Cove Park has camping and miles of trails. It is rarely crowded and open to hiking, running, or mountain biking. The trails are well-maintained, and there are multiple spur trails to access the water. Avoid hiking in the hottest summer months, or do so in the early morning or late evening. Bring bug spray and water!
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The Cottonwood Trail is a popular trail in the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area. It is not a challenging trail and is flat, so it is a trail for everyone. The trail passes through some woodland and reclaimed prairie.
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Bachman Lake is a reservoir located in the Live Field neighborhood of Dallas, Texas. It is a popular spot for fishing, boating and picnicking and features a nice trail that encircles the lake.
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Bachman Lake, nestled in the heart of the Bachman Lake community in northwest Dallas, spans 205 acres, offering a refreshing retreat for runners.
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The urban lake provides a well-maintained paved trail with continuous water views encircling the lake and winding along the Mandalay Canal. It's an ideal location if you're training for a 5k, as the loop is just under 3 miles.
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Experience the allure of Lake Carolyn and the Mandalay Canals, cherished gems in Las Colinas. The Lake offers stunning views and an easy 2.8-mile hiking loop. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this tranquil haven, a perfect escape for those seeking astonishing vistas in an urban environment.
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For bass fishing, Colonial House Lake is a serene option. Josey Ranch Lake also offers a fishing pier. Larger lakes like Lewisville Lake are renowned as the 'Urban Bass Fishing Capital of Texas,' while Grapevine Lake, Lavon Lake, and Lake Ray Hubbard are also popular for various types of fishing.
Yes, several lakes cater to families. Josey Ranch Lake features a fishing pier, picnic areas, and a playground. Bachman Lake is a popular spot for picnicking and has a trail. Lake Park on Lewisville Lake offers a swimming beach and picnic areas. Grapevine Lake has a floating water park and extensive amenities for a full day of family fun.
Lewisville Lake is excellent for water skiing, jet skiing, sailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Grapevine Lake is a hub for boating, water-skiing, and windsurfing. Lavon Lake and Lake Ray Hubbard also offer extensive opportunities for boating, swimming, and other water sports.
Absolutely. You can find an easy 2.8-mile paved loop trail with continuous water views at Lake Carolyn. Bachman Lake also features a trail that encircles the lake. The Cottonwood Trail in the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area offers a flat path through woodland and prairie. Grapevine Lake has over nine miles of wilderness trails, and Lavon Lake boasts the 25-mile Trinity Trail. For more options, explore the hiking routes around Carrollton.
Lake Carolyn provides stunning views, especially along its paved loop trail. The Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area offers a 2,000-acre nature preserve with trails and programs. Grapevine Lake features a beautiful rolling shoreline and scenic views. Josey Ranch Lake Park includes the Josey Ranch Pocket Prairie, offering opportunities to explore local plants and wildlife.
Yes, Lake Carolyn offers a well-maintained paved trail that is wheelchair accessible. Woodlake Lake, currently undergoing renovations, is planned to include an ADA-compliant kayak dock and extended paved trails, expected to be completed in early 2025.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. During the summer months, it's advisable to visit in the early morning or late evening to avoid the peak heat, especially for longer trails. Always bring bug spray and plenty of water.
You can enjoy kayaking at Lewisville Lake, Grapevine Lake, and Lake Ray Hubbard, which also offers rentals and guided tours. Woodlake Lake is planning to add an ADA-compliant kayak dock as part of its renovations, enhancing future kayaking access.
Yes, Lewisville Lake offers various camping options, including RV and tent camping within Lewisville Lake Park. Grapevine Lake provides primitive tent camping at Meadowmere Park. Lavon Lake has 16 parks with numerous camping options, including tent and RV sites with hook-ups. Hidden Cove Park also offers camping facilities.
Many lakes offer excellent running opportunities. The loop around Lake Carolyn is just under 3 miles, perfect for 5k training. Bachman Lake also has a popular trail encircling it. For more extensive options, you can find various running trails around Carrollton, including those near Lewisville Lake.
Yes, particularly near the larger lakes. Lake Ray Hubbard is unique for its boat-up shopping and dining options, with The Harbor at Rockwall offering lakeside restaurants and entertainment. Grapevine Lake is close to Historic Downtown Grapevine, which has various dining establishments. The parks around Lewisville Lake and Lavon Lake often have picnic areas, and nearby towns provide additional amenities.


Still not found your perfect lake around Carrollton? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.