As summer approached and the days grew longer, my family and I eagerly anticipated our annual vacation. Last year, we decided to embark on an adventure to Possum Kingdom Lake. Never heard of it? That's OK, I got wind of it several years ago. Nestled in the heart of Texas, 112 miles from Dallas/Fort Worth and about a 2 hour 20 minute drive, it's known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. Possum Kingdom Lake promised to be a perfect destination for our family getaway.
Getting There: A Journey Through Texas
Our journey began with our typical departure from LaGuardia Airport to Dallas Love Field Airport, and a smooth flight. Once in Texas we took a scenic drive via auto rental through the rolling hills and expansive ranch lands of central Texas. The drive itself was an adventure, with endless fields dotted by grazing cattle and occasional glimpses of historic towns that seemed frozen in time. We even stopped by a roadside store with no merchant, but tasty watermelons. We took one and dropped some payment in a bucket sitting there and went on our way, I kid you not. Very trusting community down there. As we approached Possum Kingdom Lake, the landscape transformed into rugged terrain and the anticipation grew palpable.
Arrival and Accommodations
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the breathtaking sight of Possum Kingdom Lake stretching out before us, its deep blue waters shimmering under the Texan sun. We had opted to stay in a cozy lakeside Airbnb, nestled amidst towering oak trees and offering panoramic views of the lake. The house was rustic yet comfortable, with all the amenities needed for a relaxing family stay.
Exploring the Outdoors
Texas is a very big state with a lot of open range, remind me of my family trip to Big Sky Country Montana. The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the array of outdoor activities that Possum Kingdom Lake had to offer. We spent our days hiking along scenic trails that wound through dense forests and rocky outcrops. One particular trail led us to a secluded cove where we enjoyed a picnic lunch while admiring the crystal-clear waters of the lake. We caught several glimpses of mother deer strolling the backwoods with their baby deer.
So speaking of outdoor, Possum Kingdom Lake include Possum Kingdom State Park which has a camp site that cost $4 per day, per person 13 and older. is located about a hundred miles south of U.S. Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in Fort Worth, so during the summer months visitors and residents around the lake are greeted to spectacular aerial training exercises by F-16 fighter jets. The kids love the sonic booms from the passing jet engines, but if you're the type of parents who want moderate noise all the time during your vacation travel, this could be an annoyance. It's harmless nonetheless and my husband and i certainly did not mind.
For the more adventurous members of our family, water sports were the most anticipated activity of the entire trip. Our neighbor was extremely friendly and allowed us to take turn riding on his boat and tubing endlessly up and down the lake with them. We took in the abundant wildlife that calls the lake home. Jet skiing and wakeboarding were also popular choices with other families spending time here, providing thrills and laughter as we raced across the lake's surface.
Relaxation and Leisure
Evenings were spent unwinding by the campfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the starlit Texas sky. If you're from a big city crowded with night lights like I experience living in New York City, you'll really appreciate the woodsy Texas night sky. We were treated to a spectacular starry sky with a clear view of the Milky way galactic band. The peacefulness of the lake at night was truly magical, with the gentle lapping of waves against the shore creating a soothing soundtrack to our family bonding time.
We also took the opportunity during the days to explore the local culture and history. A visit to nearby Graham, Texas, offered a glimpse into the region's cowboy heritage, with its quaint downtown area and historical museums showcasing artifacts from the area's pioneer days.
Culinary Delights Made by Us
No family vacation is complete without indulging in delicious food, and Possum Kingdom Lake did not disappoint. There aren't many family eateries in short driving distance, so we came prepared stocked with fresh food and produce during our drive up. We grilled a lot, Texas-style barbecue and savory Tex-Mex dishes that tantalized our taste buds. One memorable evening, we even enjoyed a lakeside barbecue at our Airbnb, grilling salmon, steak, and tuna with veggies while watching the hot texas sun set over the water. Yes it's very hot here during the summers, so we had the AC cranking cold inside.
Community and Hospitality
One aspect of our trip that stood out was the warm hospitality of the local community. From our friendly neighbor who lives in Possum Kingdom year round, to the friendly staff at the marina where we rented our watercraft, to the welcoming smiles of fellow vacationers at the campground, everyone we encountered made us feel like part of the Possum Kingdom Lake family. I can't talk about the community without mentioning local law enforcement. Since Possum Kingdom activities are mostly centered around the lake, local police patrol the waters at intervals around the clock to ensure safety. Did I also mention, everyone on the lake in a boat is required to wear a life vest while out in the water. You will get a citation for ignoring the rules. It's for your safety.
Reflections on Our Experience
As we packed our bags and prepared to depart, we couldn't help but reflect on the memories we had created during our time at Possum Kingdom Lake. It had been more than just a vacation; it had been a chance to reconnect as a family, to immerse ourselves in nature, and to create lasting bonds that would be cherished for years to come.
How I sum up our trip to Possum Kingdom
Our family vacation to Possum Kingdom Lake, Texas, was nothing short of spectacular. From the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding wilderness to the abundance of outdoor activities and warm hospitality of the locals, every moment was filled with adventure and relaxation. Possum Kingdom Lake had exceeded our expectations and left us with memories that will be treasured forever. If you're looking for the perfect destination for your next family getaway, look no further than Possum Kingdom Lake – a true Texan gem waiting to be explored.
