Glen Rose TexasBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Glen Rose, Texas.
1. Big Rocks Park
ICONIC RIVER SWIMMING SPOT
Big Rocks Park offers a refreshing retreat less than one mile from Downtown Glen Rose where visitors can wade into the brisk green waters of the Paluxy River and feel soft sand between their toes. Swimmers can enjoy the shallow waters near the dam while adventurers scale the enormous rocks that tower over the river for panoramic 360-degree views. The park combines natural water recreation with the unique experience of climbing the landmark rock formations that give the park its name.
2. Paluxy River
CLEAR WATERS ROCKY BOTTOM
The Paluxy River features crystal clear waters flowing over a rocky bottom with sandy shores, creating the perfect natural swimming destination to cool off in the Texas heat. Accessible at several area parks, this river offers multiple swimming holes where visitors can escape the summer temperatures. The river is known for its refreshing waters and is a favorite among locals and tourists looking for a natural waterfront experience.
3. Dinosaur Valley RV Park
RIVERSIDE CAMPING ADVENTURE
Dinosaur Valley RV Park provides direct access to the Paluxy River where guests can enjoy swimming and water activities during their stay. The newest campground in Glen Rose features modern amenities including a pool and hot tub alongside natural river recreation. Visitors appreciate the convenience of riverside relaxation combined with comfortable camping facilities, making it an ideal base for exploring Glen Rose's aquatic offerings.
4. Wheeler Branch Park
RESERVOIR WITH BEACH AREA
Wheeler Branch Park features a reservoir stocked with a variety of fish and a dedicated swimming beach area with a floating dock island. Visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the numerous covered picnic benches before taking a refreshing swim or hiking around the trail that circles the water. This county park offers a complete waterfront recreation experience with facilities designed for family-friendly aquatic activities.
5. Lake Granbury
SUNLIT SHORELINE RETREAT
Lake Granbury invites visitors to soak up the sun at its welcoming shorelines perfect for swimming, picnicking, and waterfront relaxation. Located within walking distance to the historic downtown square of Granbury, the lake offers both recreational opportunities and scenic beauty. Visitors appreciate the accessibility of this refreshing waterfront escape that combines natural splendor with proximity to urban amenities.
6. Dinosaur Valley State Park
PREHISTORIC RIVER EXPLORATION
Dinosaur Valley State Park offers visitors the unique opportunity to cool off in the same river where dinosaurs once roamed, with swimming available in the Paluxy River that runs through the park. Visitors can explore prehistoric dinosaur tracks in the riverbed when water levels are low, combining natural history with refreshing water recreation. The park provides trails for all skill levels alongside riverfront activities, creating a multifaceted outdoor experience with historical significance.
7. Possum Kingdom Lake
CRYSTAL BLUE OASIS
Possum Kingdom Lake is renowned for its striking clear blue waters and dramatic limestone cliffs, offering a premier waterfront destination within driving distance of Glen Rose. Spanning 18,000 acres with 300 miles of shoreline, the lake features numerous coves, beaches, and swimming areas for visitors to enjoy. The lake's famous Hell's Gate, a natural passageway between towering cliffs, creates a dramatic backdrop for swimming and boating adventures.
8. Brazos River
HISTORIC FLOWING WATERS
The Brazos River flows near Glen Rose, offering multiple access points for swimming, fishing, and kayaking in its historic waters. As the longest river in Texas, the Brazos provides expansive waterfront recreation opportunities with scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can experience the river that played a significant role in Texas history while enjoying its natural swimming areas and peaceful shorelines.
9. Squaw Creek Reservoir
FISHING AND SWIMMING PARADISE
Squaw Creek Reservoir spans approximately 3,200 acres near Glen Rose, offering swimming opportunities alongside excellent fishing in its warm waters. Created originally as a cooling reservoir for the Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant, the lake maintains a consistently warm temperature year-round, making it ideal for extended swimming seasons. Visitors enjoy the reservoir's relatively uncrowded shores and abundant wildlife, creating a peaceful waterfront escape.
10. Tres Rios Park
TRIPLE RIVER CONFLUENCE
Tres Rios Park sits at the unique convergence of three rivers—the Paluxy, Brazos, and Squaw Creek—creating diverse swimming and fishing opportunities in one location. The park offers riverfront camping with direct water access, allowing visitors to step from their campsite straight into refreshing river waters. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the scenic setting where three distinct waterways meet, providing varied aquatic experiences from gentle swimming holes to fishing spots rich with multiple species.
Glen Rose Things To Do
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