There are many lakes in Texas, both natural and man-made, that allow docks and a plethora of water activities. Most are within driving distance of major Texas cities, and camping and hiking options are available. Fishing cabins and lodges are often available for rent as well. Lake o' the Pines, for example, is a little more than two hours east of Dallas and includes floating cabin options.
Town Lake in Austin allows docks via a boat rental company called Rowing Dock. Rowing Dock offers rentals of kayaks, paddle boats and row boats. Choose from hourly boat rentals, rowing and kayaking lessons, membership opportunities and summer camps. Group rates are available. Three types of summer camps are available for kids from third grade through high school. Campers learn to row and kayak and can enjoy swimming and other water activities. Rowing lessons range from $165 for beginner courses to $250 for private lessons. Stand-up paddle boarding is also available and costs $15 per hour, $40 for a half day (three hours) and $60 for a full day.
Rowing Dock
2418 Stratford Dr.
Austin, TX 78746
512.459.0999
www.rowingdock.com
Lake Conroe is a man-made lake located 60 miles north of Houston. It was created in 1973 as a reserve drinking water supply for Houston. Enjoy fishing, sailing, swimming, jet skiing, water skiing and pleasure boating on Lake Conroe. Land activities include camping, hunting, hiking and golfing; the north end of the lake is dedicated to the Sam Houston National Forest. Condominiums, hotels, resorts, RV parks, waterfront boat storage, waterfront real estate and valet launching make up the shoreline along this lake. The south shore of the lake offers nightlife that includes live music, restaurants and bars.
Castaways RV Park & Campground
Lake Conroe
12922 Longstreet
Willis, TX 77318
800-828-2613
www.castawaysrvpark.com
Grapevine Lake is a smaller lake located north of Grapevine. Campgrounds, bike/hike/equestrian trails and a restaurant and bar make up this lake area, with plenty of nearby attractions including the cities of Dallas, Grapevine and Forth Worth, all of which are 20 minutes away from the lake. Sailing, jet skiing, fishing and swimming are all available, as are party barges. Island Bound Adventures offers sailing lessons. Boat to Little Pete's to dine on the water. Large-mouth bass are the most popular sport fish in this lake, although catfish and crappie are also available.
Grapevine Lake
Silver Lake Marina
2500 Fairway Dr.
Grapevine, TX 76051
817-310-3000
www.jffdfw.com
