Grayson County is one of North Texas's most outdoor-friendly counties, and the reason is simple: Lake Texoma. One of the largest reservoirs in the United States, Lake Texoma anchors a recreational ecosystem that includes fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and wildlife watching — all within an easy drive of Sherman and Denison. 

Beyond the lake, state parks, wildlife refuges, and city trail systems give residents and visitors a genuine range of ways to spend time outside year-round.

Lake Texoma: The Anchor of Outdoor Recreation

Fishing

Lake Texoma's striped bass fishery is internationally recognized — one of the few inland lakes in the country with a self-sustaining striper population. Fishing is productive year-round with peak action in spring and fall. 

Primary species include striped bass, white bass, largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, and blue catfish. A Texas freshwater fishing license is required; the special Lake Texoma license covers both the Texas and Oklahoma sides.

Boating and Watersports

Boat launches at Eisenhower State Park, Grandpappy Point, Highport Marina, and multiple Army Corps of Engineers access points serve the lake. 

Rentals — pontoon boats, fishing boats, kayaks, and personal watercraft — are available at Grandpappy Point and Highport Marina. Protected coves and creek arms offer calm water for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Swimming

Eisenhower State Park's designated swimming beach is the most popular public swim spot on the Texas side of Lake Texoma. Always monitor blue-green algae advisories before swimming — algae toxins are dangerous to humans and pets.

Eisenhower State Park

A 423-acre Texas State Park on Lake Texoma near Denison offering one of the best combinations of developed amenities and natural setting in North Texas.

• Hiking: Several miles of trails through cedar and oak terrain with lake views. Suitable for all fitness levels.

• Camping: Full hookup RV sites, water-and-electric sites, primitive camping, and screened shelters

• Birding: Strong migratory bird activity in spring and fall

• Admission: Day-use fee required; Texas State Park pass covers entry.

Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge

Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge covers over 11,000 acres on the Big Mineral Arm of Lake Texoma — one of the premier birding destinations in North Texas. Peak activity is October through March when wintering waterfowl concentrate on the refuge in impressive numbers.

• Auto tour route: A paved route allows visitors to cover key habitat areas without hiking — accessible for all mobility levels

• Hiking: Several trails through prairie and woodland habitat

• Admission: Free. Open year-round.

City Parks and Trails

• Pecan Grove Park (Sherman): Walking trails along Shawnee Creek. Dog-friendly and popular for daily walks and wildlife spotting.

• Waterloo Lake Park (Sherman): Fishing lake, walking trail, and playground — a good family option within the city.

• Loy Park (Denison): Large community park with a fishing lake, disc golf course, sports fields, splash pad, and walking trails.

Seasonal Outdoor Calendar

• Spring (March–May): Peak fishing season, best hiking weather, migratory birds at Hagerman, wildflower season. The best overall outdoor season.

• Summer (June–August): Lake activities dominate. Heat limits hiking comfort after 9 AM. Best for early morning or water-based recreation.

• Fall (September–November): Excellent fishing, comfortable hiking, peak birding at Hagerman. Crowds thin after Labor Day.

• Winter (December–February): Peak waterfowl season at Hagerman. Fishing can be productive on warm days. Camping is quiet and affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best outdoor activity near Grayson County?

Fishing on Lake Texoma — particularly for striped bass — is the signature outdoor experience of Grayson County. For non-anglers, Eisenhower State Park offers the best combination of hiking, camping, and lake access. Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge is the top choice for birding enthusiasts.

Are there hiking trails near Sherman or Denison?

Yes. Eisenhower State Park near Denison has the best hiking in the immediate area — several miles of lakeside trails in a natural setting. Within Sherman and Denison, Pecan Grove Park, Waterloo Lake, and the Loy Park trail system offer walkable routes for lighter recreation.

Resources

• Eisenhower State Park — Texas Parks & Wildlife

• Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge — U.S. Fish & Wildlife

• Lake Texoma — Army Corps of Engineers