Top Tips: Catch the Eclipse in Texas With Unbeatable Lake Views!

So, with that super cool total eclipse coming up, we reckon loads of folks might be thinking about catching it from a boat or chilling out by the lake. You know, those spots usually have awesome views of the horizon, plus they're all scenic and less crowded with city lights, making them the perfect place for catching this rare event.

What I just learned from our Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is that there are over 50 bodies of water right along the path of the eclipse across the Lone Star State. So, you've got plenty of options for snagging that one-of-a-kind photo and/or view near your fave fishing hole.

Nonetheless, summer is still a little ways off, it looks like the eclipse might be the kickoff for some pre-summer fun for a lot of boating enthusiasts around the lakes this year. Be aware that there will be an increase of Texas Game Wardens out on the lakes and rivers, reminding everyone to play nice and play safe.

Remember to get your day passes now before it's too late. If a park is sold out of day passes, only those visitors with day pass reservations will be allowed in. Remaining day pass availability can be found online at the Texas State Parks Eclipse Viewing page.

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Cody Jones, the assistant commander for marine enforcement, says, “Let's all have a blast during the eclipse but remember to stay safe. Wear your life jacket, steer clear of alcohol, and maybe brush up on your boating knowledge.”

Since the eclipse is a big deal, expect lots of company on the water on April 8th. Remember to be cool and show some patience. Kimberly Sorensen, from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, said, “Keep an eye out for changes in the environment and be chill at the boat ramps. It's all about sharing the fun on Texas' waterways.”

Below is a list of water bodies along the solar eclipse path.

• Texas Parks and Wildlife
• Atlanta State Park (Wright Patman Lake)
• Blanco State Park (Blanco River)
• Bonham State Park (Bonham State Park Pond)
• Cedar Hill State Park (Joe Pool Lake)
• Cleburne State Park (Cleburne State Park Lake)
• Colorado Bend State Park (Colorado River)
• Cooper Lake State Park (Jim Chapman Lake)
• Daingerfield State Park (Lake Daingerfield)
• Dinosaur Valley State Park (Paluxy River)
• Fort Parker State Park (Lake Fort Parker)
• Garner State Park (Frio River)
• Guadalupe River State Park (Guadalupe River)
• Inks Lake & Longhorn Cavern (Inks Lake)
• Lake Bob Sandlin State Park (Lake Bob Sandlin)
• Lake Tawakoni State Park (Lake Tawakoni)
• Lake Whitney State Park (Lake Whitney)
• Lost Maples State Natural Area (Sabinal River/Can Creek)
• Lyndon B Johnson State Park (Pedernales River)
• McKinney Falls State Park (Onion Creek)
• Meridian State Park (Lake Meridian)
• Pedernales Falls State Park (Pedernales River)
• Purtis Creek State Park (Purtis Creek)
• South Llano River State Park (South Llano River/Buck Lake)
• Tyler State Park (Tyler State Park Pond)
• Lake Austin
• Lake Buchanan
• Inks Lake
• Lake Lyndon B. Johnson
• Lake Marble Falls
• Lake Travis
  Please check with the park management about access before hooking up your boat. Source: TPWD website.

Remember, if a park is sold out of day passes, only those visitors with day pass reservations will be allowed in. Remaining day pass availability can be found online at the Texas State Parks Eclipse Viewing page.