Texas has 15 major rivers, 196 major reservoirs, and eight coastal basins, plus approximately 191,000 miles of streams. The map shows the major surface water features of Texas.
The state’s major rivers drain toward the Gulf Coast, the Mississippi River, or the Rio Grande River. The longest rivers are the Rio Grande, which runs along the southern border with Meixco; the Red River, which runs along the state’s border with Oklahoma; and the Brazos River, which flows from north Texas through central and east Texas to the Gulf.
The majority of the lakes in Texas are man-made reservoirs, created by damming rivers for flood control, water storage, and recreational use. One of the largest is Lake Texoma, which straddles the border between Texas and Oklahoma, offering abundant recreational opportunities and serving as a vital resource for the surrounding area. Another example is Lake Livingston, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping, while also playing a key role in flood control for the region.
One of the few natural lakes is Caddo Lake, located on the border with Louisiana. Caddo Lake is known for its lush wetlands and sprawling cypress trees, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and kayaking.
