Hillsboro TexasBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Hillsboro, Texas.
1. Lake Whitney State Park
GETAWAY CAPITAL OF TEXAS
Lake Whitney State Park offers visitors a beautiful lakeside retreat with sandy beaches and dramatic bluffs just 15 minutes from Hillsboro. Visitors can enjoy fishing, sailing, skiing, and even scuba diving in the massive blue waters surrounded by natural abundance. The park provides excellent accommodations for overnight stays, allowing guests to relax at resorts like White Bluff or camp under the stars with tent or RV options.
2. Lake Aquilla
PEACEFUL RESERVOIR RETREAT
Lake Aquilla is one of the two major lakes near Hillsboro that expands recreational pleasure for locals and visitors alike. The reservoir provides excellent fishing opportunities and water recreation activities in a less crowded setting than its larger neighbor, Lake Whitney. Surrounded by natural Texas landscape, Lake Aquilla offers a more intimate waterfront experience perfect for those seeking a quiet day on the water.
3. Bahama Beach
TROPICAL WATERPARK EXPERIENCE
Bahama Beach is a family-friendly waterpark destination that offers a tropical escape within driving distance of Hillsboro. The waterpark features multiple water slides, a lazy river, and swimming areas designed for visitors of all ages. Its affordable rates and proximity make it a popular summer destination for Hillsboro residents looking for a fun water adventure.
4. Lake Waxahachie
SCENIC RECREATION LAKE
Lake Waxahachie provides a beautiful waterfront escape with opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming near Hillsboro. The 656-acre reservoir features several access points, including a public park with swimming areas and boat ramps for water enthusiasts. Its peaceful setting makes it popular for weekend getaways and day trips for families looking to enjoy water recreation in a natural setting.
5. Meridian State Park
HISTORIC LAKESIDE HAVEN
Meridian State Park centers around a picturesque 72-acre lake where visitors can swim, fish, and paddle in the clear waters. The park's CCC-built facilities add historic charm to the natural beauty of limestone cliffs and juniper-covered hills surrounding the waterfront. Visitors appreciate the swimming area with its gradual slope that makes it family-friendly during the warmer months.
6. Cedar Hill State Park
URBAN WILDERNESS OASIS
Cedar Hill State Park sits on the shores of Joe Pool Lake, offering more than 7,500 acres of natural beauty near the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The park features swimming beaches, boat ramps, and fishing jetties where visitors can enjoy the waterfront in multiple ways. Camping areas near the shoreline allow guests to fall asleep to the gentle sounds of lapping water against the limestone shore.
7. Fort Parker State Park
HISTORIC WATERFRONT RETREAT
Fort Parker State Park features a 750-acre lake created by the CCC in the 1930s, perfect for swimming, fishing, and paddling near Hillsboro. The park's swimming area includes a designated beach where visitors can relax and cool off during hot Texas summers. Beyond the waterfront, hikers can explore trails through wooded areas while history buffs can learn about the historic fort that gives the park its name.
8. Dallas/Arlington KOA
FAMILY CAMPING WATERPARK
Dallas/Arlington KOA offers a campground with a refreshing swimming pool and water recreation facilities for travelers and locals alike. The facility combines outdoor camping accommodations with water features that provide relief from the Texas heat. Families appreciate the kid-friendly water activities while still enjoying the camping experience within reach of Hillsboro.
9. Brazos River Adventure
SCENIC RIVER EXPERIENCE
Brazos River Adventure offers stunning boat tours on the picturesque Brazos River near Waco, just a short drive from Hillsboro. Visitors can experience morning or sunset boat rides that showcase the natural beauty of the riverside landscapes and wildlife. The adventure provides a unique perspective of the area's waterways and has become a popular attraction for those seeking a peaceful water experience.
10. White Bluff Resort
LUXURY LAKESIDE GETAWAY
White Bluff Resort sits along the shores of Lake Whitney, offering upscale accommodations with direct access to waterfront activities. The resort features multiple amenities including beaches, boat docks, and swimming areas where guests can enjoy the lake's refreshing waters. Visitors appreciate the combination of luxury lodging and natural beauty that makes White Bluff a complete waterfront escape near Hillsboro.
Hillsboro Things To Do
Visit our list of attractions and things to do near Hillsboro, Texas.
Hillsboro Restaurants
Visit our list of restaurants and places to eat near Hillsboro, Texas.