If you’re looking for something fun to do during spring break, the Brazos River Basin offers several cost-conscious family fun opportunities.
There’s something for everyone at each of our three reservoirs. Possum Kingdom Lake is located 75 miles northwest of Fort Worth in Palo Pinto and Young Counties. Lake Granbury is located 33 miles southwest of Fort Worth in Hood County. Lake Limestone is located 40 miles east of Waco in Robertson and Leon Counties.
Hiking and Biking
The hike and bike trail at Possum Kingdom Lake is a natural trail through a North Texas cedar and oak forest. There is a 16-mile trail system located between Scenic Cove and Sandy Beach Public Use Areas. Twelve trailheads allow recreationists the ability to enjoy as much or as little of the trails as they like.
There are 21 lookouts along the trail with markers providing historical information on the area as well as outstanding views of the reservoir. Water fountains and restrooms are available at various trailheads. The trails also feature rest areas with cedar benches.
A printable Hike & Bike trail map can be found here.
Camping and Picnicking
All three BRA reservoirs offer camping - from primitive campsites using a tent to camping areas with a slab for RV parking. Campsites are first-come, first-served, and campers are allowed to stay up to 10 consecutive days within a 30-day period. Covered tables, pavilions, fire pits, cooking grills, play areas and restrooms are also available at various BRA parks.
Possum Kingdom Lake has six parks offering free Spring Break overnight camping. Beginning in mid-May, Sandy Beach Park is available for day use only. Lakes Granbury and Limestone each have three parks available for overnight camping.
For more information about public use areas at Possum Kingdom Lake, click here. For Lake Limestone, click here and Lake Granbury, click here.
Water Activities
You can’t visit a reservoir without taking part in some water activities. Whether it’s boating, fishing or just cooling off in the water, BRA parks offer several amenities for all water activities.
If boating is your interest, you will find numerous free public boat ramps and courtesy docks available at each reservoir. Canoe, kayak and boat rentals are available at various places around each lake. You’ll need a Texas boater education certificate and a valid driver’s license in order to rent a boat. An online boater safety course can be found here.
If fishing is in your future, bank fishing is available as well as fishing piers, some of which are also handicapped accessible. Visitors over the age of 17 will need to obtain a fishing license which can be found here.
For more information about water conditions and angling opportunities at Possum Kingdom Lake, click here, for Lake Limestone, click here, and Lake Granbury, click here.
Paddling the Brazos River
The Brazos River offers thousands of miles of possibilities for free fun. Most land bordering the river is private property, but public access to the Brazos River is available via right-of-ways at most state or county bridges crossing the river.
The Brazos is popular among paddlers with its serene waters and beautiful landscape. Among the most popular stretches are the segments below Possum Kingdom Lake, Lake Granbury, and Lake Whitney, where the Brazos rolls through hilly stretches of the North Texas landscape.
For more information about specific locations, distance from major cities, navigational hazards, river access points, maps and more, visit Southwest Paddler’s website.