What’s the Largest Pond in Texas?

It is tricky to declare a body of water a state’s largest pond, mostly because people disagree on what constitutes a pond versus what qualifies as a lake. In fact, the water body we discuss in this article is a pond, although it contains a “lake” in its name. Buescher Lake is located in Smithville, Texas, about 45 miles southeast of Austin. The pond is located in Buescher State Park, a small park featuring camping, street and mountain biking, hiking, geocaching, picnicking, and fishing.

Isn’t It a Lake, Not a Pond?

The name certainly suggests this body of water is a lake. Again, there is no standardized measurement to discern the difference between ponds and lakes. The line of delineation relies more on generally accepted guidelines: lakes are bigger, and ponds are smaller. Buescher Lake is only 25 acres. That’s actually more of a pond in terms of dimensions.

Buescher Lake is perfect for canoes and kayaks (rentals are available). There is no swimming allowed, but the fishing is top-notch. Anglers target bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, perch, and even rainbow trout (the trout are caught more often in the winter).

The bucolic setting of the pond in the midst of loblolly pine and cedar elm trees has drawn comparisons to the words of Henry David Thoreau. Some consider Buescher Lake as the Texas version of Walden Pond.

Where is Buescher Lake Located on a Map?

Located in the heart of Texas, Buescher Lake is nestled within Bastrop State Park. It sits just southeast of Austin and is easily accessible via Highway 71. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful day on the lake or explore the surrounding trails and campsites within this beautiful natural setting.

Fire Recovery

Buescher State Park is a neighbor to Bastrop State Park, which is five times larger than Buescher Park. In 2011, Bastrop State Park was ravaged by wildfire, but Buescher State Park was largely spared. The entire area is a great place to get an up-close view of a forest in recovery after a wildfire. New life has risen from the ashes.

Along with the ecosystem of Buescher Lake, the larger forest provides a habitat for deer, all manner of birds, coyotes, bobcats, foxes, raccoons, and much more.

A Quiet Getaway

If you’re looking for a place to get back to Texas nature that is not overrun with tourists and weekend warriors, Buescher State Park and its pond (or lake, if you prefer) is a wonderful, quiet getaway.

Important note: at the time of this writing, Buescher Lake is closed due to a construction project. The closure began in January 2022. Buescher Lake is scheduled to reopen in 2023. Follow the state park website for updates.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/marekuliasz