🌤 Weather at Lake Whitney State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 46–84 °F | 70–96 °F | 44–89 °F | 34–61 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Whitney Dam, 5 mi away, elevation 574 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Lake Whitney State Park delivers the ultimate Texas lake getaway on the shores of Lake Whitney—an impoundment of the legendary Brazos River. Spanning the transition between the Cross Timbers and Blackland Prairie, this lakeside retreat offers excellent fishing, a designated swimming beach, and some of the best screened shelter camping in the Texas State Parks system.
Whether you’re casting for striped bass at sunrise, watching bald eagles soar over the lake, or simply relaxing at a campsite with panoramic water views, Lake Whitney delivers that perfect blend of adventure and relaxation that makes Texas parks legendary.
Named for the river the Spanish called “Brazos de Dios” (Arms of God), this park sits on the historic Washita Prairie—rolling grasslands dotted with woodlands along the creeks feeding the Brazos.
Park Fast Facts
| 📍 Location | Whitney, Hill County, Texas |
| 🗺️ Region | Washita Prairie / Brazos River |
| 🌊 Lake | Lake Whitney (Brazos River) |
| ⏰ Gate Hours | 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM (day use) |
| 💵 Day Use Fee | $5/person (13+) |
| 📞 Phone | (254) 694-3793 |
Fishing
Lake Whitney is a premier fishing destination in Central Texas. The park offers excellent access to productive waters.
| Species | Notes |
|---|---|
| 🐟 Largemouth Bass | Popular gamefish year-round |
| 🐟 Striped Bass | Trophy fish available |
| 🐟 White Bass | Great for beginners |
| 🐱 Blue Catfish | Bottom feeders, good eating |
🎣 Pro Tip: No fishing license required when fishing from shore within the state park! Fishing gear can be borrowed from the park.
Fishing Facilities
- 🚤 Boat Ramp: Public access to Lake Whitney
- 🔪 Fish Cleaning Shelter: Clean your catch on-site
- 🛶 Kayaking: Paddle fishing opportunities
Camping
| Campsite Type | Features |
|---|---|
| 💧 Water Only | Basic sites with water hookup |
| ⚡ Water & Electric | Most popular option |
| 🔌 Full Hookups | Water, electric, sewer |
| 🏠 Screened Shelters | Lake views, protected from bugs! |
| ⛺ Primitive Camping | Backcountry experience |
Campground Amenities
- 🚿 Hot Showers
- 🚻 Modern Restrooms
- 🧺 Picnic Tables
- 🚐 RV Dump Station
Peak Season: March – October. Reservations highly recommended!
Swimming & Water Activities
- 🏖️ Designated Swimming Area: Lake beach access
- 🚤 Boating: Motorboats welcome, ramp available
- 🛶 Kayaking: Explore the shoreline
⚠️ Note: Pets are not allowed in the beach area.
Hiking & Biking
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| 🥾 Hiking Trails | Two short, easy trails with scenic views |
| 🚴 Mountain Biking | Trails open for bikes |
| 🛣️ Road Biking | Paved surfaces available |
Wildlife Viewing
Lake Whitney State Park is home to diverse wildlife, including:
- 🦅 Bald Eagles – Soaring over the lake
- 🦃 Wild Turkeys – Common in wooded areas
- 🦌 White-tailed Deer – Frequently spotted
- 🦝 Raccoons & Armadillos – Evening visitors
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing license at Lake Whitney State Park?
No! When fishing from the shore within the state park, you do not need a fishing license. The park even offers loaner fishing gear if you don’t have your own. A license is required for fishing from a boat.
What fish can I catch at Lake Whitney?
Lake Whitney is known for excellent fishing including largemouth bass, striped bass (trophy fish!), white bass, and blue catfish. The park has a boat ramp and fish cleaning shelter available.
What are the screened shelters like?
The screened shelters are enclosed structures that protect you from bugs while still enjoying the outdoors. Many offer lake views and are a popular alternative to traditional tent camping. They’re especially nice during Texas’s buggy seasons!
Can I swim at Lake Whitney State Park?
Yes! The park has a designated swimming area on the lake. Note that pets are not permitted in the beach area. The swimming spot can have variable conditions, so use caution and supervise children.
What wildlife can I see at Lake Whitney?
The park is home to bald eagles (especially impressive!), wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, raccoons, armadillos, and opossums. The lake and prairie habitat supports diverse bird species year-round.
When is the best time to visit?
The park’s peak season is March through October when swimming and water activities are most enjoyable. Reservations are highly recommended during this time. Spring and fall offer ideal temperatures for camping and hiking.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Meridian State Park is within about an hour’s drive, and Cleburne State Park is within about an hour’s drive.
🎣 Where the Brazos Becomes a Fishing Paradise
Cast for trophy stripers, swim at the lake beach, camp in screened shelters with panoramic views, and spot bald eagles over the water. Lake Whitney delivers classic Texas lakeside adventure!
Explore More Texas State Parks
Lake Whitney State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Texas. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Texas guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
⛺ Camping at Lake Whitney State Park: Campgrounds & Cabins
| Campsites | 137 sites — 43 full-hookup sites (water, sewer, 50-amp electric) in the Horseshoe Camping Loop (sites #1-38 and #47-51), each for up to 8 people; 31 sites with water and 50-amp electric hookups in the Blue Bird (#87-98), Road Runner (#99-110) and Sunset Ridge (#124-130) loops, each for up to 8 people; 63 water-only sites in the Horseshoe (#39-48), White-Tail (#52-68), Star View (#69-86) and Lake View (#111-123, #131-137) loops, each for up to 8 people. Every site has a picnic table and a fire ring with grill, with restrooms and showers nearby. |
|---|---|
| Cabins & Lodging | Cabins accommodate up to 4 people, with four bunk beds (three twin, one full-size), an A/C unit, a heater, a picnic table, water access, a lantern post and a fire ring with grill. No pets are allowed, and guests beyond the cabin's capacity must use tents outside. |
| Pets | Pets are allowed at the park's standard campsites but not in screened shelters or cabins, and may not enter any Texas State Park buildings. |
| Reservations | Reservations can be made online through the Texas State Parks reservation system or by calling the Customer Service Center at (512) 389-8900; the park can also be reached directly at (254) 694-3793. |
| Special sites | 27 screened shelter sites accommodate up to 8 people each, with electricity and interior lighting, a lantern post, picnic tables inside and outside, a fire ring with grill and an outside water spigot; tents are permitted outside, RVs cannot park at the shelters, and a two-night minimum stay is required on Friday-Saturday. One Group Hall with Kitchen holds up to 64 people for day use, or 15 people inside plus 40 people in tents outside overnight (no RVs), with air conditioning, heating, a kitchen (sink, microwave, refrigerator, stove with oven), a projection screen and wheelchair accessibility; overnight stays require a two-consecutive-day minimum. |
Camping questions about Lake Whitney State Park
Can you camp at Lake Whitney State Park?
Yes. Lake Whitney State Park has 137 campsites. 43 full-hookup sites (water, sewer, 50-amp electric) in the Horseshoe Camping Loop (sites #1-38 and #47-51), each for up to 8 people; 31 sites with water and 50-amp electric hookups in the Blue Bird (#87-98), Road Runner (#99-110) and Sunset Ridge (#124-130) loops, each for up to 8 people; 63 water-only sites in the Horseshoe (#39-48), White-Tail (#52-68), Star View (#69-86) and Lake View (#111-123, #131-137) loops, each for up to 8 people. Every site has a picnic table and a fire ring with grill, with restrooms and showers nearby.
How do you reserve a campsite at Lake Whitney State Park?
Reservations can be made online through the Texas State Parks reservation system or by calling the Customer Service Center at (512) 389-8900; the park can also be reached directly at (254) 694-3793.
Are there cabins at Lake Whitney State Park?
Cabins accommodate up to 4 people, with four bunk beds (three twin, one full-size), an A/C unit, a heater, a picnic table, water access, a lantern post and a fire ring with grill. No pets are allowed, and guests beyond the cabin's capacity must use tents outside.
Are pets allowed at the Lake Whitney State Park campground?
Pets are allowed at the park's standard campsites but not in screened shelters or cabins, and may not enter any Texas State Park buildings.
Source: tpwd.texas.gov (verified July 2026). Details change seasonally — confirm when booking.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Lake Whitney State Park
Park policy: The park's official TPWD facility map marks the designated swimming area as closed to pets. Lake Whitney's cabins and screened shelters are both listed with a 'No pets' restriction, so your dog stays outside those structures.
- Pets allowed?
- Dogs allowed parkwide except the designated swimming area, cabins and screened shelters
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 6 ft maximum leash required at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in the water or on land around designated swim areas
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted in any state park buildings, including motels, cabins, screened shelters and group facilities
- Park-specific rules
- The swim-area closure covers the whole designated beach, where fishing and glass containers are barred as well.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Several parks restrict dogs in specific areas (Big Bend Ranch, Enchanted Rock, Government Canyon, Hueco Tanks); proof of current rabies vaccination required
Are dogs allowed at Lake Whitney State Park?
Dogs allowed parkwide except the designated swimming area, cabins and screened shelters.
Beyond that, Texas’s statewide rules apply.
Rules verified July 2026 via tpwd.texas.gov. More: Texas state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Lake Whitney State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
