Fun Fact: there’s only one natural lake in all of Texas, or at least the story goes…but online, you can find a big debate about whether that’s true or not. Regardless, this lake is a stunning piece of nature that Texas has at its disposal and that Dallasites luckily don’t sit too far from! So here’s all you need to know about this photogenic place.
Updated October 2024
Header photo courtesy of Spadderdock
CADDO LAKE
Caddo Lake, and its 25,000 acres of hauntingly beautiful bayou, sits 3.5 hours from Dallas, and it is a State Park too! It actually straddles the Louisiana border, with much of the lake creeping over to our neighbor’s land. The lake was formed by a log jam in the 1800’s. Nowadays, the lake is actually a dam, and if it hadn’t been created as one, it might not actually still be around. So that even brings up the debate…is it still not man made?
ACTIVITIES
Boating, fishing, kayaking, hiking… there are so many ways to enjoy the great outdoors at Caddo Lake! You don’t need a fishing license, and there are more than 70 species of fish! You can also rent a canoe or kayak to peacefully paddle your way through the water and take in the natural beauty of the lake. See it from the shore by enjoying the miles of hiking trails, with both easy and expert levels!
STAYING
Grab your camping gear and stay at one of Caddo Lake State Park's 46 campsites, or you can stay in a charming historic cabin built more than 80 years ago! They can accommodate up to 6 people and rent for ~$100 a night, so this spot makes for an affordable weekend escape with friends! It's just 3.5 east of Dallas and ideal for a road trip!
OTHER CADDO LAKE ACTIVITIES
Explore our getaway guide to Caddo Lake for info on where to eat, the best cabins to book, and more! There’s also a Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge to explore, a Louisiana State Oil and Gas Museum, and Daingerfield State Park (great for fall foliage) to explore!
P.S. Watch out for the gators!