Top 10 Lakes in Denton County
Best lakes in Denton County, Texas, offer diverse outdoor recreation opportunities. The region features large bodies of water like Lake Lewisville and Ray Roberts Lake, known for various water activities and extensive shorelines. Denton County provides natural spaces for activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The area includes numerous smaller lakes and parks, catering to a range of outdoor interests.
Best lakes in Denton County
- The most popular lakes is North Shore Trail at Grapevine Lake, a…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
North Shore Trail at Grapevine Lake
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Cottonwood Trail
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Northshore Trail – Murrell Park
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Doubletree Ranch Park
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Hidden Cove Park
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Riverwalk Northern Terminus Pond
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Pond and Fountain at the Southern End of The River Walk
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Leonard and Helen Johns Community Park
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Lake Park
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Tips from the Community
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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Leonard and Helen Johns Community Park is a nice, small park in Flower Mound. It has a small pond, picnic areas and a playground. There is also a walking trail that cuts through the park.
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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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Doubletree Ranch Park is the newest park in Highland Village. The park has walking trails, a pavilion and a large lawn, which is a great spot for a picnic.
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This little lake marks the northernmost tip of the Riverwalk. Connect to the Pink Evening Primrose Trail here. Very nice area. Walk south to get to the center of the Riverwalk with restaurants, weeding venue, hotels and clocktower.
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This is the southern end of the Riverwalk with a nice lake and an island and some fountains. Very nice area. Walk north alon the water to get to the wedding chapel, the clock tower and the restaurants.
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The nicely maintained trail stays relatively flat and meanders with plenty of shade through a heavily wooded area. You'll find plenty of spots to enjoy the view of Grapevine Lake, especially at sunset.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of outdoor activities can I enjoy around Denton County lakes?
Denton County lakes offer a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, boating, and swimming. For specific trails, consider exploring the easy hikes in Denton County or the MTB trails in Denton County.
Are there family-friendly lakes or parks in Denton County?
Yes, several locations are great for families. Doubletree Ranch Park is a newer park with walking trails, a pavilion, and a large lawn, perfect for picnics. Hidden Cove Park and Lake Park on Lake Lewisville also offer family-friendly facilities and activities, including playgrounds and swimming beaches.
Where can I find trails with good lake views in Denton County?
For stunning lake views, the North Shore Trail at Grapevine Lake offers a well-maintained dirt path with rocky sections and continuous views of the lake. Similarly, the Northshore Trail – Murrell Park provides plenty of shaded spots to enjoy the scenery of Grapevine Lake, especially at sunset.
What are the best lakes for water sports and recreational boating?
Lake Lewisville is a prime destination for water sports and recreational boating. As one of the largest lakes in North Texas, it spans 29,000 acres and is popular for fishing, skiing, and swimming. Ray Roberts Lake also offers various water sports, including fishing, swimming, and canoeing.
Are there opportunities for camping near Denton County lakes?
Yes, camping is available. Lake Lewisville's Lake Park provides tent and RV camping options. Ray Roberts Lake features two main campgrounds, Isle Du Bois and Johnson Branch, for those looking to stay overnight.
Which lakes are suitable for beginner kayaking in Denton County?
Both Lake Lewisville and Ray Roberts Lake offer suitable conditions for beginner kayaking, with calmer areas available. Ray Roberts Lake, in particular, is known for its diverse water activities, including canoeing, which is similar to kayaking.
What natural features can I expect to see around Denton County lakes?
You'll find diverse natural landscapes, from extensive shorelines and woodlands to reclaimed prairies. The Cottonwood Trail in the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, for example, passes through both woodland and prairie environments.
Are there any smaller, less crowded lakes or ponds in the area?
Beyond the major lakes, Denton County has numerous smaller lakes like Bright Lake, Buchannan Lake, Burger Lake, Lake Sharon, and Rayzor Lake. Additionally, the Riverwalk Northern Terminus Pond and the Pond and Fountain at the Southern End of The River Walk offer pleasant, more localized water features.
What is the best time to visit Denton County lakes?
The lakes are popular year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Summer is ideal for water-based activities such as swimming and boating, though it can be quite warm. Winter fishing is also an option for enthusiasts.
Are there any dog-friendly trails near Denton County lakes?
Many trails around Denton County lakes are dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash. The Cottonwood Trail is a flat, accessible option, and many of the trails around Ray Roberts Lake are suitable for walks with your dog.
What makes Ray Roberts Lake unique compared to other lakes in the county?
Ray Roberts Lake is often described as having a 'beach vibe,' particularly at its Isle Du Bois area, which features a large beach. It offers a diverse range of activities both on land and in the water, including backpacking, geocaching, and horseback riding, in addition to typical water sports.
Can I find places for picnics around the lakes?
Yes, many parks around Denton County lakes provide picnic areas. Doubletree Ranch Park is highlighted as a great spot for a picnic with its large lawn. Lake Park on Lake Lewisville also offers picnic areas.
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