Lake Granbury sits just south of downtown Granbury in northern Texas, roughly 35 miles southwest of Fort Worth. This man-made reservoir was created in 1969 when the Brazos River was dammed by the De Cordova Bend Dam. The lake spans about 8,300 acres with over 100 miles of shoreline, offering scenic views and easy access for visitors. Granbury, the city that shares its name with the lake, has a population of around 11,000 and serves as the county seat of Hood County.

Lake Granbury is a hotspot for water sports and recreation. Visitors enjoy boating, jet skiing, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, and kayaking. Several marinas and rental spots make it easy to get out on the water, and fishing is a major draw thanks to plentiful bass, catfish, and crappie. Public boat ramps and fishing piers ensure easy access for both casual and serious anglers.

Off the water, Granbury offers a range of outdoor activities. The city features well-equipped parks with fields for baseball, softball, soccer, and basketball. A popular hike-and-bike trail winds through town, connecting parks, a skatepark, and a disc golf course. Outdoor lovers can also explore nearby spots like the Acton Nature Center, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, and Dinosaur Valley State Park.

Granbury's historic downtown square adds a unique charm to any visit. Recognized as Texas’s first courthouse square, it’s filled with Victorian architecture, boutiques, cafes, and the beautifully restored 1886 Opera House. Local museums, ghost tours, and scenic drives through surrounding vineyards and ranchland round out the experience, making Lake Granbury a well-balanced destination for both adventure and relaxation.

Nearby State Parks:

Acton State Historic Site - Cleburne
The smallest state park in Texas. Acton cemetery is the final resting place of Mrs. Elizabeth P. Crockett, wife of Alamo hero Davy Crockett.

Cleburne State Park - Cleburne
A 528-acre park that encompasses a lively 116-acre, spring-fed lake. Located in Johnson County, the park opened in 1938.

Dinosaur Valley State Park - Glen Rose
113 million year old Dinosaur Tracks in the Paluxy River bed.

Texas Park & Wildlife Lake Access Information

Other Attractions in the Granbury Area:

The Windmill Farm - Near Tolar
Located 7 miles from Granbury near Tolar on Hwy 377. See antique windmills of all kinds. Some windmills are always in operation and new ones are being added. Well worth the trip!

Fossil Rim Wildlife Park - Near Glen Rose
In a sanctuary of 1500 senic acres where over 800 exotic animals roam free.

The Jail and Hood County Historical Museum
Old Western jail built in 1885, and operated through 1978. Complete with an original cell block and hanging tower.

Comanche Peak Information Center - Glen Rose
Learn about the generation of electricity using the atom at the first nuclear plant in Texas.

Barnard's Mill & Art Museum
Built in the 1860's. Registered with National & Texas Historic Places. Original art featuring oils, bronzes, watercolors, etchings and artifacts.

Creation Evidence Museum - Glen Rose 
Archaeological excavations. A scientific look at Creation.