Whitney Lake
RV Guide
Introduction
Located in Central Texas, Whitney Lake is on the main stem of the Brazos River. The Whitney Dam and Powerhouse can be found about 5.5 miles (8.85 km) southwest of Whitney, Texas, which is about 30 miles (48.3 km) north of Waco. The large lake (37 square miles/95.8 square km of coverage) is part of the Three Rivers Region in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Fort Worth District and includes 225 miles (362.1 km) of shoreline. Due to its abundant recreational activities and its central location in the state, Whitney Lake is often referred to as “The Getaway Capital of Texas.”
Whitney Lake is a popular place to visit, with more than 2 million visitors annually who come to enjoy the myriad of recreation activities available; the lake is known for excellent fishing, boating, water skiing, scuba diving, camping, and more. There are 10 Corps of Engineer parks and a state park around the lake, providing plenty of options for picnics, camping, and other opportunities for outdoor fun.
When looking for a place to engage in all sorts of outdoor recreation while also have access to opportunities to relax, take a look at Whitney Lake, where there is something for everyone.
RV Rentals in Whitney Lake
Transportation
Driving
From Fort Worth, take I-35 W S for 21 miles (33.8 km). Take exit 30 toward Mansfield/Farm to Market Rd 917/Joshua. Merge onto S Burleson Blvd and continue for .2 miles (.3 km), turning right onto FM 917 W. Travel for 2.2 miles (3.5 km) and continue straight onto FM 2280 S. Continue for 5.8 miles (9.3 km); turn right onto US-67 BUS S/E Henderson St. Drive for 3.5 miles (5.6 km). Follow TX-174 S for 21.4 miles (34.4 km). Turn left at FM 56 S and continue for 7.7 miles (12.4 km). Make a left onto County Rd 1295/County Rd 1307. After .2 miles (.3 km), make a right onto County Rd 1304/Steele Creek Rd. Continue for two miles (3.2 km) and then turn left to reach the lake.
Parking
Parking is available at Whitney Lake.
Public Transportation
Public transportation is not available to Whitney Lake.
Campgrounds and parking in Whitney Lake
Campsites in Whitney Lake
Reservations camping
Lake Whitney State Park
Lake Whitney State Park offers a variety of camping opportunities. 43 sites offer full hook-ups (electric, water, and sewer), 31 with electric hook-ups, 63 with water hook-ups, and primitive sites for those looking to spend the night near the boat ramp. Sites include a picnic table, fire ring, and grill, and all sites have access to restrooms with showers. The campground includes a playground, swimming area, and easy access to the lake for fishing and boating. The campground at Lake Whitney State Park is a perfect place to relax before and after your outdoor adventures!
Lofers Bend West
Located on Whitney Lake, Lofers Bend West includes 51 family sites and one group campsite. There are 23 non-electric sites, many with water hook-ups. Flush toilets, drinking water, and showers are available, making it easy to clean up after a day of adventure. A boat ramp and playground are available at the campground, so you will have no trouble accessing the lake and keeping kids occupied during your downtime. Enjoy the scenery during your stay; you will be among rolling hills covered with cedar, Live and Post oak.
McCown Valley
McCown Valley can be found on Whitney Lake on the Brazos River’s main channel and offers a campground that is open year-round. A variety of sites are available for those looking to camp there; 39 equestrian sites, 48 family sites, and 13 primitive tent sites. Sites with electric and/or water hook-ups are available at the campground, which offers flush and pit toilets, a dump station, drinking water, and showers. Five sleeping shelters are also available at the campground. McCown Valley’s campground offers easy access to recreation; there is a boat ramp, playground, and hiking trails on site. Keep your eyes out for deer and wild turkeys that have been known to frequent the area!
Seasonal activities in Whitney Lake
In-Season
Go Scuba Diving
A popular way to spend time at Whitney Lake is scuba diving. For those looking to engage in the activity, there are several diving spots considered to be favorites. These include spots at Lofer’s Bend Park, Soldiers Bluff Park, Cliffs on Little Rocky Creek, and King Creek (near the small rock island named King Creek Rock). Grab your gear and check out the underwater scenery at these and other locations in the lake.
Go Fishing
Whitney Lake is an ideal place to bring your rod and reel. According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, you can experience excellent fishing at Whitney Lake for Striped Bass, White Bass, Smallmouth Bass, and Catfish. Largemouth Bass, Crappie and Sunfish can also be found in the lake.
Fishing is a great activity for multiple reasons Not only can you possibly catch your next meal, but you can also enjoy the sounds of nature and relax while taking in the scenery of the lake and its surroundings.
Spend Time on a Boat
Whitney Lake’s beautiful waters are perfect for spending time on the water. The lake is large, can accommodate all types of boats, and is even popular for jet skiing. Consider exploring the lake in a sailboat, motorboat, kayak, or canoe. With 20 public and private boat ramps, you will have no trouble getting your vessel onto the lake.
Multiple marinas have a variety of rentals available, so you can enjoy boating on the lake even if you don’t own your own watercraft!
Go for a Swim
The cool waters of Whitney Lake are inviting and you will be tempted to enjoy them before or after engaging in other activities on and around the lake. There are plenty of options for taking a dip in the lake, which is considered one of the cleanest in Texas. Parks on the lake have swim beaches and picnic areas, making it easy to access and swim in the clear water. Whether swimming for a workout or relaxing and floating, the lake is a great place for a dip!
Off-Season
Bird Watching
Whitney Lake and its surrounding area are perfect for bird watching. The lake is in the North American Flyway, so over 300 different species of birds can be seen throughout the year.
Swallows, for example, are responsible for the holes and cracks in the rock formations along the lake. The American bald eagle can be seen in the area; in fact, each year the number of bald eagles seen around Whitney Lake increases. Bring your binoculars and relax while enjoying a view of many species of birds!
Texas Rangers Hall of Fame Museum
About an hour from Whitney Lake in Waco is the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame Museum. Located by the Brazos River, the museum is run by the City of Waco. The museum seeks to preserve the history and encourage appreciation of the Texas Rangers. Visitors can explore the museum and learn more about the work of the Rangers and how they have contributed to public safety over the centuries.
