Apr 28, 2023

As the largest urban area in the state of Texas and one of the most influential cities in the Southern United States, Houston, TX, is home to a plethora of famous local landmarks and tourist attractions. Just a short drive away from the bustling city center, however, visitors can also find scenic lakes, rivers, and coastal parks offering great opportunities for boating and other water activities. Here are three popular and nearby destinations you should visit in the area.

Make the Drive: 3 Great Boating Destinations Near Houston, TX

1. Lake Conroe

Covering an area of more than 20,000 acres in Montgomery County, Lake Conroe is a magnet for boaters and water sports enthusiasts from all over the Houston metropolitan area. Lying on the West Fork of the San Jacinto River and nearly 55 miles north of the city center, this beautiful lake is the perfect place to enjoy a summer weekend with your loved ones.

Driving from downtown Houston to Lake Conroe takes a little under one hour via route I-45. Although there are many public parks offering boat ramps and public access to the lake, one of the best spots to visit Lake Conroe is Sam Houston National Forest. Other activities you can enjoy here include fishing and jet-skiing.

2. Somerville Lake

An artificial reservoir constructed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Somerville Lake is located about 100 miles northwest of Houston and can be reached in about one hour and 35 minutes by car via route US-290. Originally designed as a flood control reservoir, this place has become one of the go-to destinations among locals during the spring and summer seasons.

Somerville Lake covers a surface area of approximately 11,500 acres and boasts a shore length of about 85 miles. Some of the recreational facilities you can find on the shores of this popular body of water include fully equipped campgrounds, 10 public boat ramps, fishing spots, an extensive network of nature trails, playgrounds, two floating marinas, and picnic tables. 

3. Lake Livingston

Constructed in the late 1960s and fed by the Trinity River, Lake Livingston is another well-known destination among boaters and anglers from Houston. With six public boat ramps and numerous other private ones, Lake Livingston is the perfect place for a day trip or a fun weekend escape with your loved ones. Located about 75 miles north of downtown Houston, Lake Livingston State Park is the perfect place to visit the lake.

If you are searching for a powerful, versatile, and reliable vehicle to tow your boat and go on memorable trips with your family, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator Reserve is a fantastic option. Pick up the phone and give us a call at Bayway Lincoln today to check out this model, take it on a test drive, and explore our flexible payment plans.

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