Great Escapes

Just north of Dallas, in Denton County, lies the expanse of Lewisville Lake. Although its name and size have changed throughout the years, the 29,000 acres of water surface and 233 miles of shoreline are still a quiet escape from the flurry of city life.

Essentials

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is the nearest major airport, about 12 miles away. Multiple locations offering emergency medical care are available nearby, but the closest to the shore is Medical City Lewisville, just three miles away.

Lewisville, Dallas, TX

The potential for a reservoir north of Dallas dates back to 1927 when the project was appropriately named Lake Dallas. The reservoir would prove ideal for flood control, a water source, and recreation. Thanks to Garza Dam, the dam in question, Lake Dallas served its community as a principal water source for 31 years.

In the 1940s, the need for greater flood control became apparent, and plans were drafted to expand Lake Dallas. The new and larger lake would encompass the original reservoir and two nearby creeks, and once the project was finished, construction of the Garza-Little Elm Dam began in 1948. 

While the dam and other preparations were underway, a discovery was made on-site. Following the founding of prehistoric artifacts, the construction site quickly became an archaeological dig site. After the initial tests sparked controversy, carbon-14 testing ultimately dated some artifacts from as far back as 12,000 years, showing clear human inhabitation in the region. The site has since sunken back beneath the waves.

Following the dam’s completion in 1954 and the creation of a more extensive reservoir, the new challenge at hand was an unsuspecting one. The lake’s name became a point of contention, as locals had come to recognize it as Lake Dallas. This was compounded by the fact that a city on the lake was, of course, named Lewisville. While the lake’s name changed repeatedly, it was not until the 1970s that it was officially christened Lewisville Lake. In 1991, the dam gained a hydroelectric facility that provides power to the community today.

Since then, Lewisville Lake has become a reputable vacation and relaxation destination; its lake homes are nothing to sneer at. Lewisville Lake’s broad stretch makes it perfect for boating, skiing, tubing, fishing, and most other water sports. Residents and visitors can access the area’s multiple boat ramps, playgrounds, hiking trails, and campgrounds. An adjacent nature preserve called Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area works to protect the splendor of the lake’s natural beauty.

Anglers will be happy to hear that Lewisville Lake is rich with white, largemouth, spotted bass, crappie, and channel catfish.

Not Just a Vacation Home

Lewisville Lake has delighted locals and visitors throughout the years, and the opportunities that come with owning a primary lake residence here are boundless.