When was Lake Texoma made?

When Was Lake Texoma Made? A Look Back at Its Remarkable History

Lake Texoma is more than just a beautiful place to fish, boat, and camp—it’s also a marvel of engineering with a fascinating backstory. Nestled along the border of Texas and Oklahoma, Lake Texoma stands today as one of the largest and most popular reservoirs in the United States. But many people visiting its shores may wonder: When was Lake Texoma made?

Let’s take a trip back in time to explore the origins of this iconic lake.

The Birth of a Lake: 1944

Lake Texoma was officially completed and began filling with water in 1944, following the construction of Denison Dam on the Red River. The dam, located near Denison, Texas, was a monumental project led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Construction of Denison Dam began in 1939, fueled by the needs of the time. The main goals were to:

• Provide flood control for communities downstream of the Red River
• Generate hydroelectric power for the growing region
• Create a reliable water supply for nearby cities and towns
• Offer recreational opportunities for the public

It took about five years to build the dam, overcoming challenges of wartime material shortages and complex river management. By the time it was finished in early 1944, the dam stood as an impressive structure, stretching 15,200 feet long and 165 feet high.

Once the dam was completed, the waters of the Red River and Washita River began to fill the valley behind it, gradually creating Lake Texoma. Within a short period, an expansive lake had formed, covering lowlands, old farms, and valleys that are now underwater.

A Lake Built for Many Purposes

Although Lake Texoma was originally built for flood control and hydroelectricity, it quickly became something more. By the late 1940s and 1950s, it had transformed into a popular destination for:

• Boating and sailing
• Fishing, especially for striped bass (one of the few inland lakes where they naturally reproduce)
• Camping and picnicking at newly developed parks
• Wildlife watching in the surrounding forests and wetlands

Today, Lake Texoma attracts around 6 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited lakes in the country. Its wide waters and scenic shoreline have made it a treasured getaway for generations of families.

The Legacy of Denison Dam

The construction of Denison Dam and the creation of Lake Texoma marked a turning point in managing the unpredictable Red River. Before the dam, communities downriver faced frequent floods that damaged crops, homes, and infrastructure. The dam not only provided safety from flooding but also brought electricity to rural areas and helped stabilize water supply for agriculture and drinking.

Even today, the dam plays a vital role in regional water management, especially during times of drought or heavy rainfall.

Interesting Historical Facts

✔️ When completed in 1944, Denison Dam was the largest rolled-earthfill dam in the United States.

✔️ Lake Texoma was named by blending “Texas” and “Oklahoma”—since it straddles both states.

✔️ The filling of Lake Texoma covered several small towns and communities, whose remnants lie beneath the water.

✔️ During World War II, some of the electricity generated by Denison Dam was used to power defense industries.

Final Thoughts

So, when was Lake Texoma made? The answer is 1944, after five years of hard work, innovation, and engineering. From its beginnings as a flood control reservoir to its status today as a beloved recreation spot, Lake Texoma’s history is as deep as its waters.

The next time you’re boating across the lake, casting a fishing line, or relaxing at a lakeside campground, take a moment to appreciate the incredible story beneath the surface—a story that began more than 80 years ago with a bold vision and a mighty river.

Have you visited Lake Texoma? Share your favorite memories or photos in the comments below!