How big is Lake Texoma?

How Big is Lake Texoma? Discover the Size and Scope of This Iconic Lake

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring a sprawling body of water where fishing, boating, camping, and adventure await, look no further than Lake Texoma. Nestled along the border of Texas and Oklahoma, this impressive lake isn’t just large—it’s massive, earning its place among the biggest reservoirs in the United States. But just how big is Lake Texoma? Let’s dive into the facts, figures, and what that size really means for visitors and locals alike.

A Giant on the Red River

Lake Texoma was created in 1944 with the construction of Denison Dam on the Red River. Its primary purposes were flood control, hydroelectric power, water supply, and recreation. Today, it’s also beloved for its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor fun.

When it comes to its size, here’s what you need to know:

✅ Surface Area: Lake Texoma covers approximately 89,000 acres of water when at normal elevation. That’s about 139 square miles—plenty of room for boaters to cruise, anglers to cast a line, and swimmers to enjoy refreshing waters.

✅ Shoreline: The lake boasts more than 580 miles of shoreline, featuring sandy beaches, rocky coves, wooded inlets, and numerous parks, marinas, and campgrounds. Imagine having nearly 600 miles of shoreline to explore—whether by boat, kayak, or on foot.

✅ Length and Width: At its longest, Lake Texoma stretches about 65 miles from west to east. Its width varies, but in some places, it spans several miles across.

✅ Depth: The maximum depth of Lake Texoma is around 100 feet near the dam, though depths vary widely throughout the lake. Many popular fishing and swimming spots are shallower and accessible to casual visitors.

✅ Volume: At full pool (normal capacity), the lake holds roughly 2.5 million acre-feet of water—a staggering amount of water that makes it one of the largest reservoirs in the U.S.

How Big is Lake Texoma Compared to Other Lakes?

Lake Texoma ranks among the largest reservoirs in the United States and is often listed in the top 12 biggest by water volume. It’s not quite as large as Texas’s Lake Livingston or Oklahoma’s Lake Eufaula in surface area, but it surpasses many other well-known lakes in recreational capacity and shoreline length.

Its impressive size supports a wide range of activities:

1. More than 70 species of fish thrive in its waters, including its famous striped bass, making it a popular fishing destination.
2. Its vastness accommodates dozens of marinas and hundreds of boat slips for recreational and competitive boating.
3. With over half a million campers annually, there’s no shortage of space for tents, RVs, or lakeside cabins.

Why Does Its Size Matter?

Lake Texoma’s size isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about the experience it offers. Its scale means fewer crowds on the water, more secluded coves to discover, and diverse habitats for wildlife. Whether you want to water-ski across open stretches or find a quiet inlet to fish, the lake’s vastness ensures there’s room for everyone.

Plus, because it straddles two states, Lake Texoma offers unique cultural, legal, and ecological diversity. Texas and Oklahoma both manage different parts of the lake, leading to interesting variations in fishing regulations, camping fees, and even local customs.

Final Thoughts

Lake Texoma’s size is a big part of its charm. Spanning nearly 90,000 acres with hundreds of miles of shoreline, it’s more than just a lake—it’s a playground for adventurers, a haven for anglers, and a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a long vacation, the sheer size of Lake Texoma promises plenty of space to explore, relax, and enjoy.

Have you been to Lake Texoma? Share your favorite spots and experiences in the comments below!