Small Town, Big Lake
Located an hour east of Abilene and two hours west of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Area, Lake Cisco rests in the heart of Texas. Stretching 1,050 acres across the quaint city of Cisco, this reservoir showcases the beauty of small-town lake life.
Essentials
Because of its proximity to Abeline, Lake Cisco is close to all the necessities. Emergency health care is available just 25 minutes west at the Eastland Memorial Hospital. And only a few miles offshore, residents can access either the Abilene Regional Airport or the Cisco Municipal Airport for all traveling needs.
The World’s Largest Concrete Swimming Pool
The construction of the Williamson Dam in 1923 led to the formation of Lake Cisco—created to address the water needs of the Cisco community. However, it wasn’t until four years later that the property became a recreational hotspot featuring the world’s largest concrete swimming pool.
By 1927, residents from nearby counties and states recognized Lake Cisco as a beloved summer getaway. Inspired by the influx of visitors, Mayor James Milton Williamson founded the Lake Cisco Amusement Company, which quickly constructed a nearby zoo and ice skating rink.
However, with a hefty $1.5 million price tag, the rest of the project failed to see fruition as the town receded into bankruptcy by the end of 1927. Nevertheless, the pool, zoo, and skating rink continued to attract large crowds annually.
Unfortunately, in 1977, a fire burned down the ice skating rink, and the pool and zoo were abandoned. Nonetheless, today, many resort visitors reflect on their vacations fondly. Although the resort has faded into the past, its spirit lives on through Lake Cisco.
Recreation Galore
With five local parks, a variety of boat landings, and more than 1,050 acres of water, Lake Cisco offers endless space for recreation. Lake Cisco Rentals sits on the Southwestern shoreline, showcasing watercraft and cabin rentals, as well as fishing and lake supplies. Additionally, the lake’s shores provide exceptional hiking opportunities.
Popular lake activities include boating, water skiing, jet skiing, and fishing. Anglers will fall in love with these expansive waters for their numerous fish varieties. Common catches include channel catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, redear sunfish, and white crappie.
A Town Frozen in Time
With fully-restored 1920s buildings dotting downtown, Cisco offers a glimpse of what life was like in early Texas. Acquaint yourself with the local community as you meander through various shops, diners, and the town’s signature brewery and coffee shop. However, Waverly’s Coffee Shop is more than what its name implies. Doubling as a restaurant, bookstore, and gift shop, Waverly’s offers an experience that remains special in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Car enthusiasts and history lovers will appreciate Cisco’s selection of museums, particularly Woody’s Classic Cars & Baseball Museum. This museum packs a punch with its limited spacing, featuring an array of cars from varying eras, rare baseball memorabilia, and stunning murals along the walls. Another popular location is the Old Jail Art Center, a remodeled Shackelford County Jail revamped into a haven for local art. Featuring a sculpture garden, paintings, and occasional art performances, it allows visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the rich Cisco culture.
Relaxation and Recreation
With a history steeped in recreation, the opportunities are endless at Lake Cisco. So whether you’re looking to relax by the shoreline, fine-tune your water skiing skills, or enjoy the peace and quiet of small-town living, Lake Cisco is the perfect spot for you.