Arlington TexasBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Arlington, Texas.
1. Lake Arlington
URBAN LAKESIDE ESCAPE
Lake Arlington offers peaceful views and a variety of recreational activities including fishing, boating, and enjoying nature. Visitors can access the lake through multiple parks including Richard Simpson Park, which is open 24 hours daily, and Bowman Springs Park (Feather Beach) which features a fishing pier, floating dock, and boat ramp. The lake requires permits for all watercraft, making it a regulated yet accessible urban oasis for water enthusiasts.
2. Richard Simpson Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION HUB
Richard Simpson Park is a nine-acre park on Lake Arlington that serves as a popular access point to enjoy the lake's recreational opportunities. Named after a dedicated lake officer who worked tirelessly around Lake Arlington for 13 years, the park provides 24-hour access to visitors looking to enjoy fishing, boating, and natural scenery. The park's continuous accessibility makes it a favorite destination for early morning fishing enthusiasts and evening sunset viewers alike.
3. Bowman Springs Park
FEATHER BEACH RETREAT
Bowman Springs Park, commonly known as Feather Beach, is a heavily wooded 14-acre park where Lake Arlington forms its western boundary. The park features essential amenities for water recreation including a fishing pier, floating dock, and boat ramp for easy lake access. Open from 5am to 10pm daily, this natural setting provides a peaceful retreat for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers.
4. River Legacy Park
RIVERSIDE NATURE TRAILS
River Legacy Park offers visitors a chance to enjoy scenic trails alongside the Trinity River in Arlington. The park's extensive nature and wildlife areas provide a peaceful escape with opportunities for walking, cycling, and observing local flora and fauna. Visitors consistently praise the park for its well-maintained walking trails that wind through the natural riverside setting.
5. Lake Viridian
COMMUNITY LAKE EXPERIENCE
Lake Viridian is part of the master-planned Viridian community in Arlington, offering residents and visitors a beautiful lakeside setting with opportunities for catch-and-release fishing and canoeing. The lake is surrounded by 850 acres of open space and connects to miles of pathways that link with the existing River Legacy trails system. This picturesque body of water serves as a central feature of the community, encouraging outdoor recreation and connection with nature.
6. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
THRILLING WATER PARK
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor offers 50 acres of water attractions ranging from steep slides to lazy rivers, catering to all thrill levels. The water park features a variety of dining options including pizza, Mexican food, and ice cream to satisfy visitors' appetites throughout their day of aquatic fun. Open from May through September, Hurricane Harbor provides a perfect summer escape for families and thrill-seekers alike.
7. Lake Lewisville
EXPANSIVE RECREATIONAL WATERS
Lake Lewisville is a vast reservoir located near Arlington that offers extensive recreational opportunities including swimming, boating, fishing, and camping. With multiple beaches, marinas, and parks surrounding its shores, the lake serves as a popular weekend destination for Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex residents seeking water-based activities. The lake's size allows for various water sports while still providing quiet coves for peaceful fishing or relaxation.
8. Cedar Hill State Park
LAKESIDE NATURAL BEAUTY
Cedar Hill State Park sits on the shores of Joe Pool Lake, offering a natural escape with swimming beaches, fishing opportunities, and boat ramps. The park combines historical elements, including the Penn Farm Agricultural History Center, with natural lake recreation options in a scenic hill country setting. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching when taking a break from the refreshing lake waters.
9. Bahama Beach
FAMILY WATERPARK GETAWAY
Bahama Beach Waterpark is Dallas' southern waterpark destination featuring multiple water slides, a lazy river, and a children's play area with tropical theming. The family-friendly waterpark provides affordable aquatic entertainment with concessions and shade structures to make summer days more comfortable. Its convenient location makes it an accessible option for Arlington residents looking for a day of water fun without traveling too far from home.
10. Ray Roberts Lake State Park
PRISTINE LAKE RECREATION
Ray Roberts Lake State Park encompasses multiple units around the shores of Ray Roberts Lake, offering sandy swimming beaches, boat ramps, and extensive fishing opportunities. The park features diverse ecosystems including hardwood forests, wetlands, and prairie remnants that provide habitat for wildlife and scenic backdrops for water recreation. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, hiking, and equestrian trails when not swimming or boating on the clean waters of this large reservoir.
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