Lake LBJ TX is a 6,449-acre reservoir situated along the Colorado and Llano Rivers in Burnet and Llano counties. Known across the Texas Hill Country for its steady water levels, the lake serves as a prime destination for water skiing, wakeboarding, bass angling, and relaxing cabin vacations.
Key takeaways
- Constant Pool Level: Managed by the Lower Colorado River Authority, Lake LBJ maintains an 825-foot conservation elevation without the drastic drawdowns typical of storage reservoirs.
- Public Boat Ramps: Granite Shoals municipal parks, Kingsland Lions Club Park, and Wirtz Dam provide straightforward public launching options.
- Active Water Sports: Calm waters sheltered by Hill Country terrain create ideal conditions for wakeboarding, tubing, and pontoon cruising.
- Productive Fishing: Extensive boat docks, granite boulders, and the spring Llano River white bass run offer year-round angling opportunities.
- Hill Country Base: Lake LBJ sits within minutes of Marble Falls, Inks Lake State Park, and Longhorn Cavern State Park for convenient day trips.
Lake LBJ TX at a Glance
Originally known as Lake Granite Shoals, the reservoir was impounded in 1951 by Alvin Wirtz Dam and renamed in 1965 in honor of President Lyndon B. Johnson. The reservoir stretches 21.15 miles through the Hill Country, connecting the Colorado River with the Llano River arm.
Unlike massive flood-storage basins like Lake Travis, Lake LBJ operates as a constant-level pass-through reservoir. Hydrologic monitoring by the Lower Colorado River Authority River Operations confirms that water levels remain virtually stable at 825 feet above mean sea level throughout the year.
Official storage data maintained by the Texas Water Development Board indicates a storage capacity of roughly 138,500 acre-feet. This stability attracts lakefront homeowners and boaters who want consistent water depths for docks and navigation channels. Travelers comparing statewide destinations will find Lake LBJ among the best lakes in Texas for predictable water recreation.
The shoreline is heavily developed with bulkheads, boathouses, and residential docks. This urbanized waterfront means boaters must practice responsible wake management while traveling along narrow residential canals.
Boating and Public Access Ramps
Recreational boating remains the central attraction across Lake LBJ. Motorized watercraft enjoy miles of deep water extending from the dam westward to the confluence of the Llano and Colorado Rivers.
Because private bulkheads line most of the shoreline, launching requires utilizing designated public or commercial ramps. Navigational guidelines from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department emphasize caution around underwater granite reefs and bridge pilings.
Granite Shoals Boat Ramps
The City of Granite Shoals operates nineteen public parks along the north-central shore of Lake LBJ, several of which include public boat ramps. Facilities such as Bluebriar Park and Timberhill Park provide concrete ramps and parking stalls.
Residents and visitors can launch day boats directly into protected side channels. City parks feature courtesy piers, picnic tables, and shaded oak trees, making them excellent staging grounds for family boating outings.
Kingsland Lions Club Park
Located off FM 1431 along the Llano River arm, Kingsland Lions Club Park provides public boat launching, courtesy docks, and bank fishing piers. The park sits near the popular Kingsland water corridor where the Llano River joins Lake LBJ.
A modest donation or day-use parking fee supports park maintenance. Visitors appreciate the adjacent grassy lawns and picnic shelters, which provide easy access for loading coolers and water sports equipment.
Wirtz Dam Boat Ramp
Situated on the eastern end of the lake off FM 2147 near Marble Falls, the Wirtz Dam ramp offers direct deep-water access near the dam structure. This public concrete ramp is maintained for recreational boaters and anglers targeting deep water.
Parking is limited, so arriving early on summer weekends is essential. The ramp provides immediate access to wide open water, making it a favorite for wakeboarders and jet skiers seeking minimal shoreline interference.
Lake LBJ Public Boat Ramps and Parks Comparison
Review the comparison table below to identify boat ramps, facility fees, and location details around Lake LBJ.
| Ramp / Park | Location | Ramp Lanes | Fee Required | Managing Entity | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bluebriar Park | Granite Shoals | 1 Concrete | Free public access | City of Granite Shoals | Small boat launch, calm coves |
| Timberhill Park | Granite Shoals | 1 Concrete | Free public access | City of Granite Shoals | Trailer parking, picnic tables |
| Kingsland Lions Park | Kingsland (FM 1431) | 2 Concrete | Modest park fee | Kingsland Lions Club | Llano River arm, family day use |
| Wirtz Dam Ramp | Off FM 2147 East | 1 Concrete | Free public access | LCRA / County | Deep-water access, wakeboarding |
| Sunset Point Park | 2322 N Wirtz Dam Rd | Private ramp | Camping fee | Private RV Resort | RV campers, extended stays |
Detailed ramp coordinates and navigational advisories are documented in the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Public Access Directory.
Things to Do Around Lake LBJ
Beyond motorboating, Lake LBJ offers diverse recreational activities across its shoreline communities. Stand-up paddleboarding and flatwater kayaking are popular in quiet coves, particularly around sunrise before boat wakes pick up.
Waterfront dining provides a welcoming way to experience the local culture. Boaters can dock at local restaurants in Kingsland and Horseshoe Bay to grab lunch, iced tea, or craft beer before returning to the lake.
Golf enthusiasts will find championship golf courses surrounding Horseshoe Bay along the southern shore. Scenic drives along Ranch Road 1431 and FM 2147 feature granite outcroppings, bluebonnets in spring, and expansive Hill Country vistas. Visitors who want to add an underground adventure can explore our guide to Longhorn Cavern State Park before heading to the water.
Fishing at Lake LBJ
Lake LBJ ranks among the top Texas fishing lakes for multiple sportfish species. The presence of thousands of boat docks, granite riprap, and submerged hydrilla creates rich cover for predatory game fish.
Largemouth bass fishing is productive throughout the year. In spring, bass spawn in shallow gravel pockets near docks, where pitching Texas-rigged soft plastics and jigs yields quality bites. During summer, night fishing under lighted boat docks using spinnerbaits and crankbaits produces trophy fish.
White crappie thrive around deep dock brush piles, especially during late autumn and winter. The annual spring white bass run attracts anglers to the upper Llano River arm between February and May, where small spoons and curly-tail grubs catch limits of migrating fish.
Where to Stay Near Lake LBJ
Accommodations around Lake LBJ cater to families, couples, and fishing groups. Waterfront vacation rental homes are abundant in Kingsland and Granite Shoals, many featuring private docks, boat lifts, and outdoor fire pits.
Campers and RV travelers often reserve sites at Sunset Point RV Resort, which offers full hookups, lakefront lawns, and clean bathhouses. Travelers can also explore our broader overview of lakes near Austin to evaluate neighboring campgrounds.
For visitors wanting traditional hotel amenities, Marble Falls sits just ten minutes east. Marble Falls provides national hotel chains, local boutiques, grocery stores, and popular dining spots like the Blue Bonnet Cafe.
Nearby Parks and Day Trips
Lake LBJ serves as a central hub for exploring the Highland Lakes region. Just a short drive north lies Inks Lake State Park, offering pink granite hiking trails, scenic swimming holes, and waterfront campsites.
Subterranean exploration awaits at Longhorn Cavern State Park, situated along Park Road 4. The underground walking tour reveals ancient limestone formations carved by prehistoric rivers, providing a cool retreat during hot summer afternoons.
Combining a morning boat cruise on Lake LBJ with an afternoon cave tour or state park hike creates a memorable Hill Country weekend itinerary for travelers of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lake LBJ a constant-level lake?
Yes, Lake LBJ is maintained as a constant-level reservoir by the Lower Colorado River Authority at a conservation pool elevation of 825 feet above sea level. This steady water level ensures boat ramps, private docks, and marinas remain fully operational year-round.
Can you swim in Lake LBJ?
Yes, swimming is allowed across Lake LBJ, especially in quiet residential coves and public waterfront parks like Kingsland Lions Club Park. Swimmers should exercise caution near boat channels and wear personal flotation devices because no lifeguards are on duty.
How deep is Lake LBJ?
Lake LBJ reaches a maximum depth of 90 feet near Alvin Wirtz Dam on its eastern end. The average water depth hovers between 20 and 40 feet across the main Colorado River channel.
What towns are located on Lake LBJ?
The primary towns surrounding Lake LBJ include Kingsland, Granite Shoals, Sunrise Beach Village, Horseshoe Bay, and nearby Marble Falls. These communities offer public boat ramps, waterfront vacation rentals, marinas, and casual lakeside dining.
What fish species live in Lake LBJ?
Lake LBJ supports thriving populations of largemouth bass, white crappie, white bass, channel catfish, and sunfish. Anglers especially target the annual spring white bass run up the Llano River and work docks for heavy bass.
