Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized: Recreation & History

Quick answer

Lake Texoma is a major U.S. reservoir located on the Texas-Oklahoma border. Formed by Denison Dam in 1944, it’s the 12th-largest U.S. Army Corps lake and attracts 6 million visitors annually. Known for recreation, sailing, and striped bass fishing, it’s a key destination near Dallas-Fort Worth.

Introduction: Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized

Lake Texoma is more than just a large body of water—it’s a dynamic destination blending hydrology, history, and high-impact recreation. Located at the confluence of the Red and Washita Rivers, it spans across Texas and Oklahoma and serves as a hub for boating, fishing, camping, and regional economic growth.

Constructed during World War II, this massive reservoir was designed for flood control and hydropower. Today, it’s a multi-use attraction drawing millions each year for its state parks, wildlife refuges, and vibrant boating scene.

In this post, we’ll explore why Lake Texoma remains one of the most important and visited reservoirs in the U.S.—from its salty origins to modern development battles.

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Key Facts About Lake Texoma

Hydrology and Geography of Lake Texoma

A River of Salt

One of Lake Texoma’s most unique features is its saltwater inflow. The Red River carries dissolved salts from prehistoric sea beds—up to 3,450 tons per day. This unusual feature allows striped bass, a saltwater fish, to naturally thrive in the lake.

Water Sources and Elevation

The lake’s primary inflows are the Red and Washita Rivers. Other tributaries include Big and Little Mineral Creeks, Buncombe Creek, and Rock Creek. Its water level is controlled by Denison Dam:

• Conservation pool: 615–619 ft
• Flood control pool: Up to 645 ft
• Top of dam: 670 ft

It has crested the emergency spillway five times, most recently in 2015.

The History of Lake Texoma

Early Vision and Construction

The vision for Lake Texoma started in 1925 with George Moulton. Congressional support came in 1938 via the Flood Control Act. Construction began soon after under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, with Captain Lucius D. Clay as its first commander.

WWII-Era Labor and POW Camps

German POWs from Rommel’s Afrika Korps were used for non-combat labor, clearing trees and lining drainage ditches around the dam. The dam was completed in 1944, with generators added by 1949.

Transition from Utility to Recreation

Initially focused on flood control and hydropower, Congress didn’t officially authorize recreation until 1988. By then, Lake Texoma was already a thriving tourist destination.

Recreation at Lake Texoma

State Parks and Wildlife Refuges

• Lake Texoma State Park (OK): Campgrounds, trails, boating.
• Eisenhower State Park (TX): Great for hiking, mountain biking, and lake access.
• Wildlife Refuges: North and south lake areas are rich in bird species and nature trails.

Marinas and Resorts

There are 12 marinas and 26 resorts, offering rentals, repairs, and luxury lodging. Popular ones include:

• Highport Marina
• Cedar Mills Marina
• Lake Texoma Lodge

Sailing and Regattas

Lake Texoma hosts the annual Lakefest Regatta, the first inland charity regatta in the U.S. Held each spring, it brings together over 500 sailors and supports the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of North Texas.

Popular Activities

• Powerboating
• Jet skiing
• Water skiing
• Sailing
• Fishing
• Camping
• Hiking

Fishing at Lake Texoma

Striped Bass Capital

Lake Texoma is the only self-sustaining population of striped bass in Texas. This makes it a year-round fishing destination.

Record-Breaking Catches

In 2004, a 121.5 lb blue catfish was caught—a world record at the time. Most catches range from 5–70 lbs.

Fish You’ll Find

• Striped bass
• Blue and channel catfish
• Crappie
• Largemouth and smallmouth bass
• Gar

Fishing is supported by state hatcheries and regulated by both Texas Parks & Wildlife and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.

Cities, Islands, and Communities

Nearby Cities

• Texas: Denison, Sherman, Pottsboro, Gainesville
• Oklahoma: Durant, Kingston, Madill

Submerged Towns and Islands

The former town of Aylesworth lies beneath the lake. Several islands—like Hog Island, Treasure Island, and West Island—are only accessible by boat and offer primitive camping spots.

Economic Development and Private Projects

Pointe Vista Development

A major real estate project planned for Marshall County, OK, includes:

• Luxury homes (1,500–4,000 sq. ft.)
• Resort lodge
• 18–36-hole golf course
• Amphitheater and water parks

Land Transfers

The Water Resources Development Acts of 1999 and 2007 authorized public-to-private land transfers for:

• Economic development in Denison, TX
• Expanding resort offerings in Lake Texoma State Park

Environmental Concerns

These developments are controversial. Any future expansion must comply with NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act), which requires comprehensive environmental impact reviews.

Lake Texoma in the News

• In 2015, a giant vortex 2.5 meters wide appeared during a post-flood water release.
• In 2024, the Texas-Oklahoma border was adjusted to resolve jurisdiction issues over a municipal pump station.

Conclusion

Lake Texoma stands as a rare blend of utility and recreation. From its origins in WWII construction to its modern role as a sailing and fishing paradise, it offers something for everyone. As development continues, its importance to the Texoma region—economically and ecologically—only grows.

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