Lake Fork

Lake Fork
32.8025° N, -95.537° W
Lake Fork

Lake Fork, situated about 70 miles east of Dallas and 30 miles north of Tyler, Texas, is a verdant oasis that beckons adventure travelers, wellness seekers, and families alike. This expansive lake, renowned as the Trophy Bass Capital of Texas, attracts anglers worldwide with its abundant trophy bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill.

Surrounded by the counties of Wood, Rains, and Hopkins, Lake Fork offers a myriad of activities. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at either The Links At Land’s End in Yantis or the Lake Fork Golf Course in Emory, both boasting 18-hole courses with challenging greens and picturesque vistas. For those seeking outdoor adventures, Lake Fork Park provides picnic areas, playgrounds, walking trails, and a boat ramp, perfect for a relaxing day or an action-packed excursion.

Nearby, the East Texas Zoo & Gator Park and Mineola Historical Museum offer a glimpse into local wildlife and history. The Grand Saline Salt Palace and Hopkins County Veterans Memorial serve as poignant historical landmarks. Families can enjoy horseback riding tours at Lake Fork Stables, while wellness seekers might find tranquility at the Mineola Nature Preserve. With its rich natural beauty and diverse attractions, Lake Fork is an ideal destination for any traveler seeking an unforgettable experience.

Surface area (mi)
69.1
Max depth (ft)
68.9
Elevation (ft)
403.54
Shoreline length (mi)
315.04
Best time to go
Embrace the ethereal charm of late spring, from April to May, when Lake Fork awakens in a symphony of vibrant blossoms and shimmering waters. Delight in world-class bass fishing and morning kayak excursions, all while basking in sunlit tranquility. With fewer tourists in midweek, indulge in serene sunsets over the lake, creating an idyllic backdrop for a luxurious escape.
Water Quality
The water color at Lake Shipp is tannin-stained, giving it a tea-colored or brown hue due to detritus from plants. The water clarity is murky, with a measured turbidity of 6.6 NTU as of January 2025. The shoreline scenery is characterized by aquatic vegetation and the natural flora of the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes, though the area is impacted by rapid urbanization and listed as impaired by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Wakeboarding
  • Kayaking
  • Fishing
  • Freshwater Fishing

Islands

The tranquil embrace of Lake Fork reveals its enchanting islands, each a slice of serene beauty that beckons adventurers and leisure seekers alike. Steeped in Texas history, these islands once served as hubs for local fishing communities, and remnants of old docks whisper tales of the past. Today, they captivate visitors with picturesque hiking trails that wind through lush landscapes, offering breathtaking lookouts ideal for capturing the setting sun over the shimmering waters.

Along these verdant trails, you might stumble upon hidden fishing spots, perfect for reeling in prized catches or simply basking in nature’s essence. Though modest, historical landmarks interrupt the wild, showcasing the rich heritage of the area. Photographers frequently gather at the islands’ subtle vistas, capturing moments that transform into cherished memories. Lake Fork’s islands remain a luxurious escape, providing a harmonious blend of recreation and the peaceful solitude only nature can offer.

Nearby amenities

The area surrounding the lake offers a variety of amenities for visitors. Boating enthusiasts can utilize Lake Fork Marina, which features boat ramps, rentals for pontoons and jet skis, and a fuel dock. Anglers will find several bait and tackle shops, including the nearby Lake Fork Bait & Tackle, for all their fishing needs. Dining options include the Lake Fork Grill, providing lakefront views and delicious meals, while other eateries like The BBQ Place offer casual dining. For those looking to stay overnight, options range from cabins at Lake Fork Resort to campsites at nearby Lake Fork State Park. Accessibility is supported by day-use parking lots and RV parking. Outdoor recreation opportunities abound, with hiking and biking trails available at local parks. Essential services are covered with restrooms, picnic areas, and a visitor information center at the marina. Enjoy the outdoors—whether fishing, boating, or relaxing at the beach, there’s something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Fork has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, swimming is not allowed in Lake Fork. Swimming is specifically prohibited within 1,000 feet upstream from the Spillway and Outlet works, adjacent to public boat ramps, and in any other designated areas.

  • Lake Fork is a popular destination for fishermen because it is renowned for its trophy-sized largemouth bass. The lake has produced many of Texas’s state record bass, including an 18.18-pound record holder. It was stocked with over 700,000 Florida largemouth bass from 1979-1987, and its diverse habitat of flooded timber, creeks, and grassbeds supports a rich fish population.

  • In Lake Fork, Texas, largemouth bass have a 16- to 24-inch slot limit; bass between 16 and 24 inches must be returned. Only one bass 24 inches or greater can be retained per day, and you can keep up to 5 bass under 16 inches. Specific regulations apply to this lake, differing from statewide limits.

  • There is no public beach at Lake Fork. The reservoir has limited bank access, but it does offer a public day-use area and a fishing pier built by the Sabine River Authority. Public boat ramps are available for water access.

  • The nearest towns to Lake Fork, Texas, are Emory, Yantis, Quitman, and Alba. These towns are located in the surrounding counties of Wood, Rains, and Hopkins. They are close to the lake’s shoreline and provide access to various amenities and services.