Ennis TexasBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Ennis, Texas.
1. Bardwell Lake
POPULAR FISHING DESTINATION
Bardwell Lake is a 3,500-acre lake that attracts over half a million visitors each year seeking water recreation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, swimming, boating, and water skiing at this expansive water destination. The lake is considered one of Texas' best-kept secrets for fishing, offering excellent opportunities to catch white bass, hybrid bass, catfish, and crappie.
2. High View Park
BEACH AND PICNIC AREA
High View Park is located on the west side of Bardwell Lake, providing a scenic waterfront recreation area for visitors. The park features a beach area where visitors can play and enjoy picnics with beautiful lake views. With a four-lane boat ramp and convenient parking, it serves as a popular access point for water activities on Bardwell Lake.
3. Rotary Park & Splash Pad
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WATER RECREATION
Rotary Park is the largest community park in Ennis at 35.5 acres, situated around the historic Old City Lake. The park features a refreshing splash pad that provides relief during hot Texas summers, making it a popular destination for families. Visitors can also enjoy the one-mile paved Ivan Goodwin Walking Trail that connects to the adjoining Kiwanis Park, offering scenic waterfront views.
4. Waxahachie Creek Park
SERENE CREEK ACCESS
Waxahachie Creek Park is located on the upstream portion of the Waxahachie Creek arm of Bardwell Lake. The park offers two 4-lane boat ramps with ample parking for water enthusiasts looking to access the creek and lake. Operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this year-round destination provides a quieter alternative to the main lake areas.
5. Old City Lake
HISTORIC WATERFRONT SETTING
Old City Lake is a historic water feature surrounded by Rotary Park, offering a tranquil setting in the heart of Ennis. Visitors can enjoy the scenic waterfront while walking along the paved trail that encircles the lake. The lake area provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and a picturesque backdrop for outdoor recreation.
6. Lake Waxahachie
RECREATIONAL WATER PARADISE
Lake Waxahachie is a popular recreational lake located near Ennis in neighboring Waxahachie. The lake offers swimming areas, fishing opportunities, and boating access for visitors seeking water-based activities. With scenic surroundings and multiple access points, Lake Waxahachie serves as a weekend getaway destination for residents of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
7. Joe Pool Lake
EXPANSIVE AQUATIC PLAYGROUND
Joe Pool Lake is a large reservoir spanning 7,470 acres located north of Ennis in the Grand Prairie and Cedar Hill area. The lake features multiple swimming beaches, boat ramps, and fishing areas across several parks including Lynn Creek Park and Loyd Park. Visitors enjoy the lake's clear waters and extensive shoreline for camping, picnicking, and water sports throughout the year.
8. Cedar Hill State Park Beach
NATURAL LAKESIDE RETREAT
Cedar Hill State Park Beach offers a natural swimming area along the shores of Joe Pool Lake, not far from Ennis. The park combines the natural beauty of rolling hills with the recreational opportunities of a large lake. Visitors can swim in designated beach areas, fish from the shore, or simply relax and enjoy the scenic views of this popular state park.
9. Marine Creek Lake
URBAN WATERFRONT ESCAPE
Marine Creek Lake is a 250-acre reservoir located within the Fort Worth area, providing a waterfront escape not far from Ennis. The lake is known for its clean water and is popular for fishing, kayaking, and shoreline recreation. Its convenient location makes it an accessible day trip destination for residents and visitors seeking water activities without traveling too far from the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
10. Lake Arlington
VERSATILE WATER RECREATION
Lake Arlington is a 2,275-acre reservoir situated between Dallas and Fort Worth, offering various water recreation opportunities within driving distance of Ennis. The lake features public boat ramps, fishing piers, and shoreline access points for visitors to enjoy. Popular among anglers for its largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie populations, Lake Arlington also attracts boaters and jet skiers seeking an active day on the water.
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