Lake Palo Pinto is a reservoir located in Palo Pinto County, Texas, about 70 miles west of Fort Worth. It serves primarily as a water supply for the surrounding regions and has become a popular destination for outdoor recreational activities, including fishing and boating. Lake Palo Pinto is on Palo Pinto Creek in the Brazos River basin fifteen miles southwest of Mineral Wells in Palo Pinto County (at 32°38' N, 98°16' W). Construction of Palo Pinto Creek Dam, an earthfill dam ninety-six feet high designed by Freese, Nichols, and Endress, was started by the Longview Construction Company on March 21, 1963. Water storage began on April 16, 1964, and the dam was completed on November 13, 1965. The project, owned by the Palo Pinto Municipal Water District No. 1, impounds 34,250 acre-feet of water annually primarily for municipal and industrial use. The reservoir has a conservation storage capacity of 42,200 acre-feet and a surface area of 2,661 acres at the spillway crest elevation of 867 feet above mean sea level. The drainage area above the dam is 471 square miles. PALO PINTO MUSEUM: Located one block south of the courthouse in Palo Pinto (Palo Pinto is 12 miles west of Mineral Wells on Hwy. 180 and is the county seat), this museum features an old jail and log cabin, area history and artifacts. Open weekend afternoons during the summer only.Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect at Lake Palo Pinto:
Fishing
Lake Palo Pinto is well-known for its fishing opportunities. The lake is home to various species of fish, including:
- Largemouth Bass
- Catfish (both channels and blues)
- Crappie
- Sunfish
Fishing Regulations
- A Texas fishing license is required.
- Check local regulations for specific rules concerning size and bag limits, as these can change seasonally.
Boating
Lake Palo Pinto allows various types of boating activities. The lake has designated areas for launching and is suitable for:
- Powerboats
- Sailboats
- Jet skis
- Kayaks and Canoes
Boating Regulations
- There may be no-wake areas; be sure to look for signage.
- Ensure your vessel is equipped with the necessary safety gear, including life jackets.
Facilities
The lake has a few amenities for visitors:
- Boat ramps for launching vessels.
- Picnic areas and some camping options around the lake.
- Restroom facilities in certain areas.
Wildlife and Scenery
Lake Palo Pinto is set in a scenic landscape, making it also a great spot for wildlife watching, hiking, and photography. The surrounding hills and vegetation provide a beautiful backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.
Additional Information
- The best time to visit for fishing is usually in the spring and fall when the fish are more active.
- Always check weather conditions before heading out, as they can change rapidly, especially in Texas.
For the latest updates on conditions, boat ramp accessibility, and fishing reports, you may want to visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or local visitor information resources.
If you're interested in specific real estate options, amenities, or activities around the lake, feel free to ask a Lake Real Estate Specialist!
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