Lake Belton

Of interest is Miller’s Spring Park created when Lake Belton overflowed in 1992, carving out a huge canyon and wetland. This area is now a nature preserve referred to as the ‘Miracle Mile’, and includes a boardwalk trail that is fully accessible to people with disabilities. Hiking is allowed but swimming is not. Open dawn to dusk.

Quick Tips:

Lake Belton is a good get-away for folks who live in Dallas or Fort Worth, and it's not far from Central Texas residents, either. There's an interesting mural on the side of the dam detailing the area's history.

Best Way To Get Around:

You can drive around the lake to get a sense of what it's like without having to pay admission. As you approach it, you'll drive down a steep hill that also gives a nice overview.

Lake Belton is a 12,300-acre impoundment of the Leon River. Numerous creeks, coves and long peninsulas make the lake scenic and account for over one hundred miles of shoreline. Built by the Army Corps of Engineers between 1949 and 1954, Belton Dam is 3,800 feet long and 172 feet high. Lake Belton extends to the boundaries of Mother Neff State Park, the first park in the state system. The lake provides water for nearby Fort Hood and spans Bell and Coryell counties. A mural on the east side of Belton Dam tells the story of this area’s history. Lake Belton is calm and has lots of swimming docks and picnic areas. Of the thirteen public parks, three have swimming beaches: Cedar Ridge, Westcliff and Temple’s Lake.

Claiming 172 acres on Lake Belton, this park is the best for swimming. A sandy beach is roped off, and there are open, grassy areas with shade. Several peninsulas create protected swimming areas. A bathhouse with showers is nearby. Boat rentals are available, as well as skin diving and Scuba equipment. Camping facilities dot the park. Private and group picnic areas have a great view of the lake. Pets are okay on leashes. There is plenty of parking.