Lake Amistad: Del Rio, Texas's Border Reservoir

Yes, Del Rio Has a Major Lake

Lake Amistad is a massive reservoir on the Rio Grande, straddling the Texas-Mexico border near Del Rio.

Key Facts

• Formation: Created by Amistad Dam (completed 1969)
• Size: ~65,000 acres at conservation pool
• Purpose: Flood control, water supply, hydroelectric power, recreation
• Binational Management: Jointly operated by U.S. and Mexican sections of the International Boundary and Water Commission

Recreation

The lake offers exceptional fishing (bass, catfish), boating, swimming, and scuba diving in clear waters. The surrounding Amistad National Recreation Area provides camping, hiking, and prehistoric rock art sites. Its location on the border creates unique cross-cultural dynamics for visitors.