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Lake Amon G. Carter
Lake Amon G. Carter is a quiet North Texas lake south of Bowie, named for the Fort Worth publisher. It is really two lakes in one: the original 1950s lake and a newer section added in the 1980s, joined by a tunnel. Together they cover about 1,850 acres, with depths to about 50 feet and plenty of calm water for skiing and surfing.
The lake is a little over an hour from Fort Worth and under an hour from Wichita Falls, so it works as a laid-back day trip away from the busy DFW lakes.
Reserve Your Amon Carter Day
MasterCraft surf boats for 12 to 18 people, three-seat Sea-Doos, a Kawasaki stand-up jet ski and a full rack of water toys, all ready at the lake when you arrive. Book online in a few minutes, or call or text 888-205-7119 any day from 7am to 10pm.
Lake Amon G. Carter Quick Facts
| Where | Montague County, south of Bowie |
| Nearby towns | Bowie, Sunset, Nocona and Decatur |
| Size | About 1,850 surface acres, up to about 50 feet deep |
| Water | Big Sandy Creek |
| Managed by | City of Bowie |
| Since | 1956, with a second section added in 1985 |
| Best for | Quiet-water skiing, surfing and tubing |
Where to Launch and Meet Up
The City of Bowie runs two free public ramps on the lake.
- Selma Park: off FM 2583 south of Bowie, with a ramp for all boat types, fishing piers, campsites and a swim area.
- Big Sandy Creek ramp: off FM 1125 south of Bowie, another free ramp that handles all boat types.
- Supplies: Bowie has food, ice and fuel about 10 minutes away.
Where to Ride, Surf and Tube
Use the main lake. The original main lake has the most open water for surf passes and tubing loops.
Explore both sections slowly. The two parts of the lake are connected through a tunnel, so idle through any narrow spots.
Mornings are calmest. North Texas wind usually builds through the afternoon.
Give anglers room. The lake is popular for bass and crappie fishing.
Rentals That Fit Lake Amon G. Carter
Lake Amon G. Carter is a relaxed, uncrowded lake day. A MasterCraft surf boat rental seats 12 to 18 people, and a couple of Sea-Doo jet skis keep the riders busy between surf sets. Add tubes, wakeboards and a floating lily pad, or book a captained charter so nobody has to drive. Everything is ready at the lake when you arrive, and life jackets are available for everyone on board.
Tips for a Smoother Lake Day
- Check the ramps after big rain. The city may close the ramps when the lake runs high after heavy storms.
- Make it a weekend. Campsites at Selma Park and nearby RV parks make an easy overnight trip.
- Bring everything you need. Stores near the lake are limited, so pack ice, food and water.
- Watch the spring weather. North Texas storms can build quickly in spring and early summer, so keep an eye on the sky.
Rules on the Water
- Jet skis must be off the water between sunset and sunrise. Everyone riding wears a life jacket, and the driver keeps the safety lanyard clipped on.
- Stay at least 50 feet from other boats, swimmers, docks and the shoreline unless you are at idle speed.
- Life jackets are available for everyone on board, and kids should wear one any time the boat is moving.
- When you tow a rider, keep someone on board watching them the whole time, and wrap up towing before dark.
- Drain all water from the boat, the ballast and your gear before you leave the lake. It is Texas law, and it helps stop the spread of zebra mussels.
More North Texas Lakes
Lake Bridgeport is about 40 minutes south, and Eagle Mountain Lake and Lake Worth are on the way back to Fort Worth. See our Fort Worth boat rentals page, or browse every lake on our destinations page.