Lakes in Houston
Article Last Updated: August 5, 2025
Jump to: Lakes in Houston for Swimming & Recreation | Lakes for Boating or Sailing | Lakes Near Houston for Fishing
To help you find your perfect lake day match, we’ve grouped the top lakes near Houston into three main categories.
First, you’ll find lakes ideal for swimming and general recreation, including spots with hiking trails, picnic areas, and boat rentals. Next, we’ve rounded up the best lakes for boating or sailing, featuring locations where you can kayak, paddleboard, or cruise the water by motorboat. Finally, if fishing is your thing, like my husband, check out our section on lakes near Houston that are great for fishing, from stocked local ponds to spacious lakes with bass, crappie, and catfish.
Must-Visit Lakes in Houston and Beyond
Need to cool off or escape the city grind? Houston might be famous for its sprawl, but it’s also home to some incredible lakes that I think are perfect for weekend adventures. Whether you’re planning a family swim, scenic paddle, or peaceful day with a fishing rod in hand, there’s a lake near Houston calling your name.
In this guide, we’re breaking down the top lakes in and around Houston based on what you want to do—because not all lakes are created equal. From serene park lakes in the heart of the city to wide-open reservoirs ready for boating and angling, you’ll find the perfect spot to match your mood (and maybe even discover a few hidden gems).
So join me, grab your gear, load up the cooler, and let’s explore the best lakes Houston has to offer.
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Also, a few links in this article may help HoustonOnTheCheap earn a small commission if you buy something using those links.
Looking to visit lakes in other Texas cities? Check out our articles on Lakes in Austin and Lakes in San Antonio!
Lakes in Houston for Swimming & General Recreation
Lake Raven
Image Credit: tpwd.texas.gov
Lake Raven, found at the heart of Huntsville State Park, offers a serene setting for swimming, kayaking, and hiking. The lake is stocked with bass, catfish, perch, and crappie, and you can rent kayaks, paddle boats, and canoes on-site. Hiking trails and a nature center make this a great family getaway. No lifeguards are on duty so I recommend never getting in the water alone.
Where: 565 Park Road 40 West, Huntsville, Texas 77340
Operating Hours: Open Daily: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 1 Hr 11 mins
McGovern Lake
Image Credit: hermannpark.org
McGovern Lake is a relaxing oasis in the heart of Hermann Park. While you can’t swim here, visitors like you and me can enjoy paddle boat rentals and peaceful views, especially great for picnics or reading under the shade. It’s a scenic spot ideal for families and casual weekend outings.
Where: 1700 Hermann Dr, Houston, TX 77004
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Driving time from Houston: 16 mins
Lake Somerville
Lake Somerville is a favorite of mine, offering a full outdoor experience with opportunities for swimming, camping, hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. Located northwest of Houston, it’s a great option for weekend getaways.
Where: 14222 Park Rd 57, Somerville, TX 77879
Operating Hours: Daily: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 1 hr & 42 mins
Lake Livingston
Image Credit: tpwd.texas.gov
Lake Livingston is one of the largest lakes in Texas and offers plenty of recreational activities. Visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, birding, and camping in the state park that surrounds the lake.
Where: 300 Park Road 65, Livingston, TX 77351
Operating Hours: Daily: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 1 hr & 13 mins
Mary Jo Peckham Park
Mary Jo Peckham Park is a 32-acre green space featuring a putting green, a miniature golf course, a playground, a large pavilion, a gazebo, a fishing lake, and a six-hole disc golf course.
Where: 5597 Gardenia Lane, Katy, Texas 77493
Operating Hours: Daily: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 43 mins
Lake Woodlands
Lake Woodlands is a 200-acre freshwater lake perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and scenic waterfront dining. It’s one of the few lakes near Houston that blends water recreation with shopping and entertainment options.
Where: The Woodlands, TX
Operating Hours: Not Stated
Driving time from Houston: 39 mins.
Sheldon Lake
Sheldon Lake offers a peaceful escape for those interested in fishing, hiking, and bird-watching. It’s known for its environmental education center and walking trails through wetlands and coastal prairie.
Where: 14140 Garrett Rd., Houston, TX 77044
Operating Hours: Daily: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 31 mins
Arboretum Lake
Located in the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, Arboretum Lake is ideal for nature lovers like me looking for walking trails and wildlife. There’s no fishing or boating here, but you’ll enjoy a tranquil atmosphere and educational programming.
Where: 6501 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007
Operating Hours: Daily: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 13 mins.
Best Lakes in Houston for Boating or Sailing
Lake Houston Marina
Lake Houston Marina gives boating enthusiasts access to the large Lake Houston reservoir. Visitors can rent boats or bring their own and enjoy a peaceful day on the water.
Where: 10611 FM 1960, Huffman, TX 77336
Operating Hours: Daily: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 41 mins
Lake Nassau
Lake Nassau is located in Nassau Bay and offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic parkland for boating enthusiasts. It’s a charming destination with a suburban feel.
Where: Nassau Bay, TX 77058
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 am – 11:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 35 mins
Kinder Lake
Located in Discovery Green, Kinder Lake is a small man-made lake perfect for a quick urban kayaking experience. You can also rent R/C sailboats for a fun twist on city-center recreation.
Where: Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
Operating Hours: Daily: 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 5 mins.
Lake Lyndon B. Johnson (Lake LBJ)
Lake LBJ is a larger reservoir northwest of Houston known for boating, fishing, and lakeside camping. It’s ideal for jet skiing and family-friendly water recreation.
Where: Texas, USA
Operating Hours: Always Open
Driving time from Houston: 3 hrs & 45 mins
Best Fishing Lakes Near Houston
Lake Houston
Lake Houston is a reservoir for the San Jacinto River. It’s also about 11,000 acres of fishing just waiting to happen. This lake is chock full of crappie, bass, catfish, and my husband’s favorite bluegill. It’s surrounded by heavily forested parkland, so you’ll have some protection from the sun.
There are also hiking trails in the park around the lake and camping grounds if you feel like making a weekend of it. So if you were looking for the best lakes near Houston, here’s one of them!
Where: 110 West Main Street, Humble, TX 77338
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 24–30 mins
Lake Anahuac
Located in Chambers County, Lake Anahuac is known for its peaceful atmosphere and good fishing. Anglers often find catfish, bass, and panfish here.
Where: Texas 77597
Operating Hours: Not stated
Driving time from Houston: 45 mins
Lake Friendswood
Lake Friendswood is a 33-acre lake stocked regularly by Texas Parks & Wildlife. It features fishing docks, trails, picnic areas, and kayaking opportunities.
Where: 2533 Davis Prairie Ln. Friendswood, TX 77546
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:15 am – 5:30 pm
Driving time from Houston: 41 mins
Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge
A haven for anglers and bird watchers alike, Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge offers fishing for redfish, trout, and more in a protected wetland environment. Watch out for gators!
Where: 4318 FM1985, Anahuac, TX 77514
Operating Hours: Daily: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 59 mins
Lake Charlotte
Lake Charlotte is a peaceful reservoir perfect for kayaking and fishing. Surrounded by nature, it’s a great spot for spotting birds and catching bass or crappie.
Where: Texas 77597
Operating Hours: Not stated
Driving time from Houston: 47 mins
Stay on top of all the fun events and activities in Houston with our weekly updates to Things to Do in Houston this Weekend!
- Free and Fun Events in Houston – November 14 – November 16 - November 13, 2025
- How to Spend Veterans Day 2025 in Houston – Parades, Free Meals & Things to Do - November 11, 2025
- Houston Highlights: Nov. 10 to 13 – Food, Music, Arts & More - November 9, 2025
