Hico TexasBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Hico, Texas.
1. Brazos River Basin
SCENIC RIVER ADVENTURES
The Brazos River Basin offers visitors a picturesque waterfront setting with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and leisurely riverside walks. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Texas while spotting local wildlife along the river's edge. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal escape for those seeking a connection with nature away from the bustle of city life.
2. Meridian State Park
LAKESIDE NATURAL RETREAT
Meridian State Park features a beautiful 72-acre lake surrounded by limestone hills and woodlands, perfect for swimming, fishing, and paddling. Visitors can enjoy the designated swimming area during summer months or rent canoes to explore the tranquil waters. The park's well-maintained hiking trails provide scenic views of the lake from different vantage points, making it a complete outdoor experience just a short drive from Hico.
3. Lake Whitney State Park
RESERVOIR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Whitney State Park offers access to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Whitney, one of Texas's most popular recreational lakes. The park features multiple swimming beaches, boat ramps, and fishing piers where visitors can enjoy water activities year-round. Its limestone cliffs and scenic shorelines provide a stunning backdrop for waterfront camping, picnicking, and nature photography.
4. Dinosaur Valley State Park
PREHISTORIC RIVER FUN
Dinosaur Valley State Park combines the thrill of discovering dinosaur tracks with refreshing swimming holes along the Paluxy River. Visitors can wade in the clear, shallow waters where dinosaurs once roamed, with several designated swimming areas offering relief during hot Texas summers. The unique experience of cooling off in the same waters where prehistoric creatures left their mark makes this park a distinctive waterfront destination near Hico.
5. Lake Mineral Wells State Park
SCENIC LAKE GETAWAY
Lake Mineral Wells State Park centers around a 640-acre reservoir offering swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities within a scenic landscape of rolling hills. The park's designated swimming area provides a family-friendly beach experience with gentle slopes perfect for wading and swimming. Beyond water activities, visitors can explore limestone cliffs, wooded hiking trails, and observe diverse wildlife that makes this waterfront park a complete outdoor destination.
6. Glen Rose Swimming Pool
HISTORIC PUBLIC POOL
The Glen Rose Swimming Pool offers a refreshing swimming experience in a well-maintained public facility not far from Hico. The pool features clean, clear water with both shallow and deep areas to accommodate swimmers of all ages and abilities. Its convenient location makes it a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking a classic swimming experience without venturing into natural waterways.
7. Rough Creek Lodge and Resort
LUXURY LAKESIDE RETREAT
Rough Creek Lodge and Resort features a pristine 80-acre lake where guests can enjoy swimming, fishing, and various water sports in an upscale setting. The resort's waterfront area includes a sandy beach, dock, and rental equipment for kayaking and paddleboarding adventures. Visitors appreciate the combination of luxury accommodations and natural lake beauty, creating a perfect waterfront escape within driving distance of Hico.
8. Squaw Creek Reservoir
FISHING AND BOATING HAVEN
Squaw Creek Reservoir spans 3,272 acres of water surrounded by rolling hills and wooded shorelines, offering excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can access several boat ramps and fishing areas where largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish are abundant year-round. The reservoir's peaceful setting and relatively uncrowded waters make it an attractive destination for those seeking a tranquil waterfront experience near Hico.
9. Riverfront Walking Trails
SCENIC WATERSIDE PATHWAYS
Hico's Riverfront Walking Trails wind along picturesque waterways, offering visitors a peaceful stroll with beautiful views of flowing water. The well-maintained paths feature benches and viewing areas where visitors can pause to appreciate the natural setting and observe local wildlife. These accessible trails provide a perfect way to experience Hico's waterfront charm without getting wet, ideal for morning walks or evening strolls.
10. Weatherford/Fort Worth West KOA
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WATER RECREATION
The Weatherford/Fort Worth West KOA offers a refreshing swimming pool and water recreation area perfect for cooling off during hot Texas days. Campers and day visitors can enjoy the well-maintained pool facilities surrounded by shaded areas for relaxing between swims. The campground's water features provide a convenient and family-friendly alternative to natural swimming holes for those visiting the Hico area.
Hico Things To Do
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