Ever wondered where Dallas residents escape to experience nature in the heart of the city? Welcome to White Rock Lake. This 1,015-acre city lake is about five miles northeast of downtown Dallas. White Rock Lake is one of the most used parks in Dallas. Many special events happen here.
Before becoming a lake, this area was farmland. The Daniel and Cox families owned these farms. Construction of White Rock Lake started in 1910. This was in response to a water shortage in Dallas. The dam was completed in 1911. Residential construction increased around the lake. In the early 1930s, the Dallas Park Board developed the lakeshores into a municipal park. They had help from the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Did you know there was once a jail at White Rock Lake called the Pea Patch? Back then, the park was mostly prairie with few trees. Private clubs and boathouses once lined the shores. Dallas residents used to swim at White Rock Lake. The water was chlorinated until that became too much work.
The White Rock CCC Camp was at Winfrey Point. It had eight barracks buildings. The CCC deepened the lake. They built limestone rock buildings. They also made recreation improvements. During World War II, the U.S. Army used the CCC camp as an induction point. In 1943, the barracks housed 403 German prisoners-of-war. They had served in Rommel’s Afrika Corps.
In 1952, swimming was banned at White Rock Lake. This was to maintain a sanitary water supply. White Rock Lake Park became a recreational hub by 1992. It offered picnic areas and paths. The Daniel and Cox family cemetery is all that remains of their farms.
White Rock Dam is an earthen dam. It’s 47 feet high and 2,550 feet long. Its purpose is storm water control and municipal water supply. The City of Dallas owns and operates it.
White Rock Lake offers many activities. It’s known for rowing. The White Rock Boathouse was established in 1930. It was used for motor boats. Later, it housed sculling boats.
Swimming was banned in 1952. Motorized boats were banned in 1958. Today, enjoy sailing, kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding here. Rentals are available.
The lake is surrounded by White Rock Lake Park. It features a 9.33-mile trail. Hike, run or bike here. Visit the Bath House Cultural Center and the Dallas Arboretum. Fishing piers are available. Sailing is permitted.
The Corinthian Sailing Club promotes sailing and sailboat racing. The White Rock Boat Club was formed in 1961. It supported reasonably priced davits.
Many events are held at White Rock Lake. The White Rock Marathon runs around the lake. It’s a Boston Marathon qualifier.
Dozens of tree varieties grow here. Over 100 grass and plant species exist. The park is visited by over one million people each year.
Many bird species call White Rock Lake home. Herons, egrets, geese, ducks, and pelicans nest here. Woodland birds like owls and hawks also live here. Wildlife thrives here. Squirrels, beavers, deer, raccoons, foxes and coyotes are all found here. The lake contains catfish, sunfish, crappie, carp, gar, and bass.
Have you heard the legend of the Lady of White Rock Lake? The ghost of a young woman appears at night. She wears a wet 1930s dress. She asks for a ride to Gaston Avenue. Then she disappears leaving a waterlogged car seat. The legend says she drowned in the 1930s. This story inspired the song “Bringing Mary Home”.
White Rock Lake is more than a lake. It’s a natural escape. It’s full of history, recreation and maybe a ghost story or two. Take a walk around White Rock Lake. Experience the beauty and stories for yourself. You will not be disappointed.