Although Tarrant County sits about 300 miles from the nearest seaside beach, you won't have to go that far to find a sandy shore to wade or swim. The county borders tuck squarely around the Fort Worth metropolitan area. The Trinity river slices through the heart of the county, with several reservoirs along its course offering beaches safe for swimming well away from the river's dangerous currents.
Head for the Casino
- Lake Worth lies on the outer edge of northwest Fort Worth. Casino Park, on the lake's north shore, is home to the lake's swimming beach. The sand slopes gradually into the water, making it a safe place for kids. The beach was once home to a grand music hall for concerts and an amusement center with a boardwalk, Ferris wheel and mile-long roller coaster. The amusements are gone, but you can still bring an ice chest to chill your drinks while you soak up the sun.
Southwest Tarrant County
- In the southwestern part of the county, Benbrook Lake has two designated swimming beaches open for public use. Holiday Park is the larger of the two areas, stretching several miles along the lake's western shoreline. The beach slopes gently into the water, making it a safe area to bring children without fear of sudden drop-offs. The park has four restrooms, three boat ramps and drinking fountains throughout. Mustang Park sits along the southwestern arm of the lake, with a swimming beach, picnic areas and primitive campsites along the shore. Restrooms with showers and drinking water are found on-site.
Fun in the Sun
- Burger's Lake is a recreational 1-acre lake nestled in a 30-acre park in the northwest part of Fort Worth. Two sand beaches sprawl along water's edge, with shady lawns just behind them for when you want to take a break from the sun. The spring-fed lake has lifeguards on duty and recreational amenities that include a 20-foot slide, 25-foot trapeze and six diving boards. Special ozone equipment keeps the water sparkling clean throughout the summer. Bring a bag of charcoal and some burgers for a lakeside barbecue. The park is open from Mother's Day through Labor Day, and charges a fee for admission.
The Top of the County
- In the northern part of the county, Eagle Mountain Lake boasts 60 miles of shoreline. The lake is full of inlets and coves with hidden beaches waiting to be discovered by boaters. If you don't have boat access, two public parks along the shore maintain swimming beaches. On the lake's southwest side, Shady Grove Park has a sandy swimming area flanking a 24-acre park. The park has plentiful trees for shade, as well as a playground and sports courts. Twin Points, on the lake's south end, experienced a complete renovation in 2013 to 2014, with the construction of a swimming beach, restrooms, concessions and a pavilion.
