Possum Kingdom Lake, Recreational lake in Palo Pinto County, Texas.
Possum Kingdom Lake is a reservoir created by the Morris Sheppard Dam across the Brazos River, stretching across three counties in north-central Texas with a large surface of water and rocky shores. The lake holds clear water and features numerous inlets and coves along its extensive shoreline.
The Morris Sheppard Dam was constructed between 1936 and 1941 as part of the Works Progress Administration, creating the first major water supply reservoir for the Brazos River basin. This project transformed the landscape and enabled the development of recreation and water management infrastructure that remains in use.
The lake takes its name from a Russian fur trader named Ike Sablosky, who used the term to describe the densely forested region in the early 1900s. Today local residents and visitors continue to use this distinctive name when speaking about the area.
Several boat ramps and fishing piers are available around the shoreline, with over 400 campsites ranging from basic sites to spots with water and electrical hookups. Visitors can access different areas of the lake by land or water depending on which facilities or trails they prefer to explore.
Hell's Gate is a dramatic natural passage formed by two steep limestone cliffs that frame a narrow waterway between the mainland and an island, creating a striking rock formation. This location has become a focal point for summer gatherings and hosts specialized diving events that take advantage of the deep water and dramatic geology.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
