Sam Rayburn Reservoir
Why Rent On Sam Rayburn Reservoir
Sam Rayburn Reservoir, the largest manmade lake in Texas, sprawls across 114,500 acres, its pristine shoreline stretching over 750 miles. This vast aquatic expanse, created to control floods and supply water to the Beaumont and Lufkin areas, is a paradise for adventure seekers and those looking to unwind.
For the avid angler, the reservoir offers a diverse array of fish species, including largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie, making it a hotspot for fishing tournaments. Water sports enthusiasts can revel in jet skiing, boating, and other aquatic activities along its expansive waters.
Nearby, the Rayburn Country Golf Course beckons golfers with its 18-hole championship layout, designed by the Russell Design Group, featuring sweeping lake views and meticulously manicured fairways. Families and wellness seekers can enjoy campsites, resorts, and RV sites equipped with all necessary amenities, or dine at waterfront restaurants like Stump Restaurant & Club and Catfish Cabin, where meals are savored against the backdrop of glorious natural scenery.
While there are no prominent museums or historical landmarks immediately adjacent to the lake, the surrounding area’s natural beauty and plethora of outdoor activities make Sam Rayburn Reservoir an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, or family-friendly fun.
- Surface area (mi)
- 287.69
- Max depth (ft)
- 80
- Elevation (ft)
- 164.04
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 0.62
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Wakeboarding
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Marinas on Sam Rayburn Reservoir
Nearby lakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Sam Rayburn Reservoir has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, the swim beaches at Sam Rayburn Reservoir are not open for the summer of 2025. The beaches are closed to complete repairs due to historic spring rainfall and the impacts from Tropical Storm Beryl in 2024.
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Sam Rayburn Reservoir is a popular destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts because it offers an excellent year-round fishery for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. The reservoir also provides numerous amenities such as boat ramps, picnic areas, and camping grounds, making it ideal for all levels of anglers and outdoor activities.
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The best baits for catching largemouth bass in Sam Rayburn Reservoir include crankbaits, spinnerbaits, topwater baits, plastic worms, jigs, and Carolina rigs. During summer, flipping bushes with jigs or soft plastics and targeting deep schools with these baits are effective techniques. In shallow water, crankbaits and spinnerbaits work well in fall, winter, and spring.
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There are no lifeguards on the beaches at Sam Rayburn Reservoir. Swimmers use these areas at their own risk, and safety features include buoys to keep out boats and ranger patrols. Swimming is free for registered campers or Day Use Annual Pass holders, or there is a fee for day use without an annual pass.
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The nearest towns to Sam Rayburn Reservoir with essential amenities are Lufkin, Nacogdoches, and Lumberton. These towns are located in the surrounding counties and offer various services and facilities. Lufkin and Nacogdoches are larger cities with a wider range of amenities, while Lumberton is smaller but still provides necessary services.
