Lake Arrowhead, a tranquil oasis in the rolling grassland prairies near Wichita Falls, Texas, offers a versatile getaway for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and family travelers. Here, the refreshing waters of the lake invite you to swim, boat, and water ski, while the fishing pier is a prime spot to catch bass or catfish as the sun sets over the North Texas horizon.
The park’s terrain, spanning 300 acres, is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, with trails like the 4.4-mile Onion Creek Trail that weave through a disc golf course. A visit to the prairie dog town is a must, where these charming creatures roam freely. For those seeking more relaxation, the unsupervised beach is ideal for soaking up the sunshine.
Nearby, the Rocking M Ranch Distillery offers a taste of local spirits, while the Walmart Supercenter and Keeno’s Jerky provide convenient stops. For a deeper dive into history and culture, the nearby city of Wichita Falls boasts several museums and historical landmarks, making Lake Arrowhead State Park an excellent base for a diverse and engaging Texas adventure.
- Surface area (mi)
- 37.16
- Max depth (ft)
- 45.01
- Elevation (ft)
- 926.51
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 106.01
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
Islands
In the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains, a serene oasis beckons travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. The islands of Lake Arrowhead are small yet captivating, each steeped in history and natural beauty. Historically a popular retreat for Hollywood’s elite in the 1920s, the islands served as romantic hideaways, where timeless lodges whisper tales of glamour. Today, they offer a perfect setting for recreational activities; idyllic spots for picnicking frame lush hiking trails that wind through fragrant pine forests, leading to breathtaking lookouts. Photographers flock to the secluded beaches at sunset, capturing the islands’ reflections shimmering in the water. For those eager for exploration, hidden coves reveal unique aquatic life. While there are no overt tourist attractions, the islands’ charm lies in their natural beauty and peaceful ambiance, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the tranquility of this enchanting getaway.
Nearby amenities
Start your adventure by exploring the various amenities available at Lake Arrowhead. There are ample opportunities for boating enthusiasts with the Arrowhead Marina offering boat rentals, jet ski rentals, and a public launch ramp. For easy access, a fuel dock is available to refuel your vessel during your stay. Visitors can also enjoy a bite at The Boat House restaurant, which features scenic patio dining. If you’re in need of supplies, the local convenience store and bait shop have everything from groceries to fishing gear. Parking is convenient with day-use lots and RV parking available. Outdoor lovers can take advantage of hiking trails or relax at designated swimming areas. For those looking to stay overnight, consider cabins at Lake Arrowhead State Park or glamping options. Essential facilities like restrooms, showers, and first aid stations ensure a comfortable visit. Make sure to check out the visitor information center for tips on local attractions and activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Arrowhead has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, swimming is allowed in Lake Arrowhead, but it is limited. For the Lake Arrowhead in California, swimming is only permitted for property owners in the Arrowhead Woods and their guests. In the Pennsylvania location, swimming is allowed in designated areas for members and guests with proper access passes.
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Lake Arrowhead is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts because it offers a variety of year-round activities. These include mountain biking, rock climbing, ice skating, zip-lining, and water sports like water skiing and wakeboarding. The area also features hiking trails, nature reserves, and outdoor adventure parks like Skypark at Santa’s Village.
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Yes, there are restricted areas where fishing is prohibited on Lake Arrowhead in Texas. Fishing is prohibited within 750 feet upstream from the spillway and outlet works, within 1000 feet of the pump station facility, and in areas marked as restricted. It is also prohibited from any bridge structures or approaches and in areas set aside for skiing.
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There are no lifeguards on the beaches at Lake Arrowhead. Swimmers need to be careful when swimming. This applies to the private beach in front of Blue Jay Bay and other beach access locations around the lake.
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The town closest to Lake Arrowhead in Texas is Wichita Falls. Lake Arrowhead State Park is located southeast of Wichita Falls, and the park’s address is 229 Park Road 63, Wichita Falls, TX 76310. The lake is a major recreational site in the North Central Plains region of Texas.