Lake Whitney State Park, located just outside Whitney, Texas, is a scenic and serene getaway that showcases the best of Central Texas lake life. Set along the eastern shore of Lake Whitney, the park is a hub for boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and relaxing among limestone cliffs and clear, blue water. It’s a year-round destination beloved for its natural beauty, quiet campsites, and wide-open shoreline.
This state park offers an easy-going escape that’s just a short drive from the DFW metroplex or Waco—making it ideal for weekend getaways, family outings, and extended camping trips. Whether you’re casting a line for striped bass, launching a boat at sunrise, or floating in a designated swim cove, Lake Whitney State Park provides a refreshing outdoor experience for all kinds of travelers.
Why Visit Lake Whitney State Park?
Lake Whitney State Park offers a beautiful blend of rugged shoreline, clear freshwater, and peaceful campsites, making it one of the most scenic and laid-back state parks in Central Texas. Situated on the eastern edge of Lake Whitney, this 775-acre park serves as a gateway to one of the state’s top-rated reservoirs for boating, jet skiing, and year-round fishing.
What makes this park unique is its striking limestone bluffs, spacious swimming coves, and access to over 23,500 acres of lake water—perfect for outdoor adventure or quiet relaxation. Anglers love it for the abundance of striped bass, catfish, and crappie, while families enjoy its safe swim areas and picnic spots. The Two Bridges Trail adds a scenic touch for walkers and birdwatchers, especially in the cooler months.
The best time to visit is in spring and fall, when temperatures are pleasant, water levels are stable, and the park is full of natural color and wildlife activity. Whether you’re here to launch a boat, enjoy a weekend under the stars, or unwind with your toes in the water, Lake Whitney State Park is a versatile lakeside escape suited for families, campers, paddlers, and photographers alike.
Top Things to Do at Lake Whitney State Park
1. Boating and Jet Skiing on Lake Whitney
Lake Whitney’s open water and wide coves make it ideal for boating, water skiing, and jet skiing. The state park offers a convenient boat ramp with nearby parking, allowing easy access for everything from fishing boats to personal watercraft. The expansive lake provides space to cruise, explore, or anchor for a quiet swim.
Reason to Visit: Enjoy high-speed fun or tranquil lake cruising on one of Texas’s premier reservoirs
Entry Fee: Included with park entry; valid Texas boat registration required
Best Time to Visit: Spring through early fall
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Swimming and Sunbathing in the Designated Beach Area
A shallow, roped-off swimming area is perfect for cooling off during hot Texas days. The swim beach is located near picnic tables and restrooms, with plenty of shade nearby. Although there are no lifeguards on duty, it’s one of the safest and most popular family-friendly spots in the park.
Reason to Visit: Splash and relax in clear water at a quiet lakeside beach
Entry Fee: Included with park entry
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Camping Along the Lakeshore
Lake Whitney State Park offers a variety of tent and RV campsites, including full hookup sites, screened shelters, and primitive walk-ins. Many campsites are located just steps from the water, offering beautiful lake views and easy access to fishing and swimming spots.
Reason to Visit: Enjoy peaceful nights under the stars with the sound of the lake nearby
Entry Fee: $10–$30 per night depending on site type; $5 daily entry per adult
Best Time to Visit: Fall and spring for mild weather and fewer bugs
For More Info: Visit Website
4. Hiking the Two Bridges Trail
This moderate, family-friendly trail is approximately 1 mile long and winds through shaded woodland and creek crossings. It’s a great place to see wildflowers in spring, catch glimpses of deer or songbirds, and stretch your legs away from the water.
Reason to Visit: Easy hiking with natural scenery, ideal for casual walks or nature photography
Entry Fee: Included with park entry
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for flowers, birds, and cool temps
For More Info: Visit Website
5. Fishing for Striped Bass and Catfish
Lake Whitney is nationally known for its striped bass, as well as healthy populations of channel catfish, white bass, and crappie. Fish from the shoreline, a boat, or designated fishing areas in the park. A fishing license is required unless fishing from shore inside the state park boundaries.
Reason to Visit: Access one of Texas’s best fishing lakes with little effort and big reward
Entry Fee: Included with park entry; no license needed for shore fishing within the park
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for bass; summer nights for catfish
For More Info: Visit Website
Best Time to Visit
Lake Whitney State Park is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when temperatures are moderate, wildlife is active, and lake conditions are ideal for outdoor fun.
Spring (March to May)
Spring brings wildflowers, active fish, and mild temperatures ranging from the 60s to mid-80s °F. It’s an excellent season for hiking, birdwatching, and shoreline fishing. Boating is also popular before summer crowds arrive, and the weather is perfect for camping.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is peak season for swimming, boating, and jet skiing, with temperatures in the 90s °F. While the lake is beautiful and inviting, expect higher crowds and bring plenty of sunscreen, water, and insect repellent. Early mornings and evenings are best for hiking and fishing.
Fall (September to November)
Fall offers cooler air, colorful sunsets, and fewer crowds, with temperatures in the 60s to 80s °F. It’s one of the most peaceful times to camp, hike, or enjoy the water without intense heat. Wildlife viewing is also at its best during early fall.
Winter (December to February)
Winters are typically mild, with highs in the 50s to 60s °F. It’s a quiet time to visit for campers, birdwatchers, and photographers, though swimming and water activities are limited. Trails and campsites are more available, and the scenery remains lovely even in cooler months.
High vs. Off Season
High Season: Spring and summer for full water recreation and camping
Off Season: Winter for solitude and cool-weather hiking
Directions and Parking Info
Lake Whitney State Park is conveniently located in Hill County, just west of the town of Whitney, Texas, and within easy driving distance of Dallas, Fort Worth, and Waco. The park is well signed and easily accessed from major highways.
From Dallas/Fort Worth
Take I-35W S to US-67 W, then head south on TX-174 to FM 933 S. Turn right onto FM 1244, then follow signs to the park entrance.
Drive Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
From Waco
Take I-35 N to TX-22 W, then merge onto FM 933 N and turn left onto FM 1244 toward the park.
Drive Time: About 45 minutes
From Whitney
Head west on FM 1244, following signs to the park entrance.
Drive Time: 10 minutes or less
Parking Areas
Day-Use Parking: Near picnic shelters, swim beach, and restrooms
Boat Ramp Parking: Large paved area with space for trailers
Campsite Parking: One space per site; overflow parking available nearby
Trailhead Parking: Limited spaces near the Two Bridges Trail access point
Additional Tips
Parking is included with park entry—no additional fees
Arrive early on weekends and holidays to secure lakefront or ramp-adjacent spaces
Roads inside the park are paved and RV-accessible
Park maps are available at the entrance station—highly recommended for first-time visitors
Entry Fees, Passes & Reservations
Lake Whitney State Park offers affordable access for day visitors and overnight campers, with a range of options for RVs, tents, and shelter stays.
Day Use Fees
Adults (age 13+): $5 per person, per day
Children (12 and under): Free
Texas State Parks Pass: Valid for unlimited free entry for passholders and guests in the same vehicle
Camping Fees
Water-only Tent Sites: $15 per night
Sites with Water & Electricity: $20–$25 per night
Full Hookup RV Sites (Water/Electric/Sewer): $30 per night
Screened Shelters: $30–$40 per night (some near lakefront)
All sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms and hot showers
Reservations
Strongly recommended for weekends, holidays, and spring/fall seasons
Reserve Online: Texas State Parks Reservation System
Campsite check-in: 2 PM | Check-out: 12 PM
Day-use passes may also be reserved online for guaranteed entry
Hours of Operation
Open daily: 6 AM to 10 PM
Park office: Open during standard daytime hours for check-in, permits, and questions
The park remains open year-round but may close temporarily during extreme weather or lake-related safety alerts
Where to Stay Nearby
1. Lake Whitney State Park Campgrounds – Waterfront Camping Inside the Park
The park offers a variety of tent, RV, and screened shelter options, many of which are set just steps from the lake. Campers enjoy peaceful surroundings, shaded sites, and quick access to swimming, fishing, and hiking. Restrooms with showers are located throughout the campground.
Price Range: $15–$30 per night
Amenities: Water/electric hookups, fire rings, picnic tables, screened shelters, restrooms
Rating: 4.6 stars
Parking: One vehicle per site; overflow parking available
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Lake Whitney RV Campground – Full Hookup RV Resort
Just minutes from the park entrance, this RV campground offers pull-through sites, full hookups, laundry, a clubhouse, and recreational amenities like a pool and horseshoe pits. It’s ideal for visitors who want convenience and comfort with quick access to the lake.
Address: 417 Thousand Trails Dr, Whitney, TX 76692
Phone: (254) 694-3543
Price Range: $40–$60 per night
Rating: 4.4 stars
Parking: Spacious sites with room for RV, tow vehicle, and trailer
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Velkommen Inn – Quaint Hotel in Clifton
Located about 25 minutes from the park, this charming inn offers cozy rooms with Texas hospitality. It’s a good option for visitors wanting hotel-style comfort while still staying near the Lake Whitney area and other local attractions.
Address: 1215 N Avenue G, Clifton, TX 76634
Phone: (254) 675-7829
Price Range: $90–$130 per night
Rating: 4.5 stars
Parking: Free on-site guest parking
For More Info: Visit Website
Food & Drinks Nearby
1. Texas Great Country Café – Homestyle Meals in Whitney
This local favorite serves up classic Southern comfort food, including chicken-fried steak, hearty breakfasts, burgers, and fresh pies. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere and generous portions make it a top stop for hungry park-goers.
Address: 903 S Bosque St, Whitney, TX 76692
Hours: Daily: 6 AM – 9 PM
Pricing: $8–$20 per person
Distance from Park: 10 minutes
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Hooten Holler’n BBQ – Authentic Texas BBQ
Known for its tender brisket, ribs, sausage, and flavorful sides, this small-town BBQ joint delivers big taste. Dine-in or take your food to go and enjoy it at a lakeside picnic area.
Address: 123 S Colorado St, Whitney, TX 76692
Hours: Thursday–Sunday: 11 AM – 7 PM
Pricing: $10–$25 per person
Distance from Park: 10 minutes
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Corner Drug Café – Small-Town Charm in Clifton
Set in a historic building, this charming café offers fresh sandwiches, soups, salads, and homemade desserts. It’s a great lunch spot if you’re exploring Clifton after a morning at the lake.
Address: 100 N Avenue G, Clifton, TX 76634
Hours: Monday–Saturday: 11 AM – 2 PM
Pricing: $9–$18 per person
Distance from Park: 25 minutes
For More Info: Visit Website
Local Tips for Visiting
Bring sunscreen, hats, and shade covers—the open lakefront can get very sunny, especially in summer.
Swim only in designated areas; the lakebed drops off quickly in some spots, and there are no lifeguards.
Arrive early on weekends to secure parking near the beach, boat ramp, or prime fishing spots.
Fishing from shore doesn’t require a license when inside the park, but you’ll need one if fishing by boat.
Check water levels and weather updates before your trip—conditions can affect ramp access and swimming safety.
Pack bug spray during warmer months to protect against mosquitoes and biting flies.
Watch for wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and waterbirds—drive slowly through the campground area.
Campsites fill fast in spring and summer; book online in advance, especially if you need hookups.
Quiet hours are enforced in campgrounds, so plan to wind down by 10 PM if you’re staying overnight.
Bring your own water gear—kayak, paddleboard, or floaties—as rentals are not available within the park.
What Else Is Nearby?
1. Brazos River Nature Trails – Outdoor Exploration Beyond the Lake
Located just below the Lake Whitney Dam, the Brazos River area features scenic walking trails, fishing access, and birdwatching opportunities along the riverbanks. It’s a great detour for anglers and nature lovers seeking a quieter, shaded environment.
Distance: 12 miles south – about 20 minutes from the park
Why Visit: Riverside trails, peaceful fishing spots, and scenic views below the dam
2. Lake Whitney Dam Overlook – Stunning Views & Photo Spot
This roadside overlook provides a dramatic view of the Lake Whitney Dam, the river valley below, and the surrounding Hill Country terrain. It’s a quick, scenic stop with photo ops and informative signage about the dam and lake system.
Distance: 10 miles south – approximately 15 minutes from the park
Why Visit: Panoramic lake and dam views with interpretive displays
3. Clifton Arts District – Small-Town Culture and Creativity
About 25 minutes from the park, Clifton offers a charming downtown filled with local art galleries, cafes, and shops. Known as the “Cultural Capital of Bosque County,” it’s a great place to enjoy Hill Country hospitality and handmade local goods.
Distance: 20 miles west – about 25 minutes
Why Visit: Historic downtown, artisan shops, and a creative vibe in a small-town setting
Final Thoughts on Visiting Lake Whitney State Park
Lake Whitney State Park is a classic Central Texas lake retreat that combines natural beauty, water adventure, and peaceful camping into one accessible and family-friendly destination. Whether you’re casting a line at sunrise, cooling off at the swim beach, or watching stars from your lakeside campsite, the park offers space to breathe and reconnect with nature.
What sets this park apart is its versatility—you can find solitude along a hiking trail or join a lively scene at the boat ramp, all within a single visit. The limestone cliffs, clear blue water, and wide-open Texas skies create a backdrop that’s as photogenic as it is rejuvenating. Whether you’re road-tripping through the Hill Country or planning a weekend family escape, Lake Whitney State Park delivers the perfect balance of recreation and relaxation.
