Twin Buttes Reservoir, artificial lake southwest of San Angelo, Texas
Twin Buttes Reservoir is a man-made lake west of San Angelo, Texas, fed by the Middle Concho and South Concho Rivers. The shoreline alternates between rocky stretches, mudflats, and a riprap dam, and the water level can vary noticeably depending on the season and rainfall.
The reservoir was completed in 1963 as part of the San Angelo Project, a federal effort to control flooding and store water from the two Concho Rivers. It has reached full capacity only twice, both times in the 1970s, and has mostly stayed below that level since.
The reservoir draws locals from San Angelo who come to fish, boat, and spend time by the water on weekends and holidays. The open shoreline and lack of crowds make it a place where people tend to settle in quietly for hours at a time.
A limited-use permit is required for camping along the shore, and anglers 17 and older need a valid Texas fishing license. Boat ramps and picnic areas are available, but there are no developed campsites, so bring your own water and supplies.
The reservoir takes its name from two low buttes visible near the original shoreline, a detail most visitors never think to look for. The two landforms are still there in the surrounding landscape and easy to spot once you know what to look for.
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