The Lake

Houston County Lake (not to be confused with Lake Houston) is a 1330 acre (as per TPWD) spring fed lake that is nestled in the hills of the East Texas Forest Country. The lake is primarily fed by Little Elkhart creek as well as numerous smaller creeks and springs. The lake remains surprisingly cool in all but the driest of weather. It's a great lake to kayak and explore nature as rarely seen in this day and age. The many undeveloped coves allow a fisherman plenty of area to try catch that record Bass, Catfish Crappie or other fish.
The lake is ideally suited for kayakers or folks that choose to canoe the normally calm lake. Come out, explore and feel the beauty of Houston County Lake. It's truly a one of a kind lake.

The lake is roughly 60 percent fishing with 40% or less usable by recreational boats. The lake is rarely crowded, even on Holiday weekends. The waters are clear and cool and always great for taking the plunge on those hot Texas summer days.

The lake is home to two islands, Paradise Island and Whispering Pines Island. The East end of the lake is very remote and excellent for photography and enjoying nature in a primitive state. That end of the lake requires a bass boat, kayak or a canoe to access. For those that venture back you will find a remote and serene area of the lake. Wildlife is abundant and human presence is minimal.

Crockett Family Resort has new owners and they are working hard on making improvements to the campground/ rooms/restaurant etc. They've done a great job. Check them out here

Houston County Lake is a constant level lake. We don't get those wild fluctuations in water level you see at most Texas lakes. H.C.L. does not have a dam with gates that feed farmers water needs below the dam, instead we have "The Donut" pictured above. It works much like a tub drain . When the water level rises it drains into the donut until levels return to normal.
The lowest the lake has been down is around 2', much better than the 60' levels that seem to be the norm of many other lakes.

Quick Lake Facts & Info.

Maximum Depth is 40+'

Normal lake fluctuation (level is 1-2')
I
mpounded (dammed) 1966

Controlling Authority Houston County Water control authority

Largest Bass caught 15 pounds

The lake has an open recreational boating area by T.P.W.D. launch at the Dam area and an inexpensive pay launch at the Marina.

There is no gas on the lake (coming soon)

We are a slot lake, read the rules in the link on this page.

Some Helpful links

Vacation Country Rentals

Crockett Family Resort

Lake Fish Records

Fishing Report

Fish Slot Rules 

Online License Purchase

Online Map of H.C.L.

Current Lake Water Levels

Houston County Lake enjoys a loyal following. It seems, when a person visits here one time they find they form a bond and want to return. Of course, not everyone is in a position to buy a home, or wants to own one and deal with the upkeep. We may have the perfect solution for you with our rental homes. Come, enjoy the lake and leave the maintenance and expense of owning a home to us. We have a great selection of homes to choose from.
Check us out Vacation Country Rentals