White River Lake has long been a favorite recreational spot for fishing, boating and water sports also providing water to four counties—though it is entirely dependent on rainfall to maintain adequate water levels. As of June 27, 2025, the water level of White River Lake had reached 2,356.50 feet. According to Lakes Online, this is part of a significant increase that has taken place this summer. The lake, located 25 miles southeast of Crosbyton, is controlled by the White River Dam. The reservoir has provided water for Crosbyton, Ralls, Post and Spur for decades (though all four now have backup water supplies and a well-field has been built between Crosbyton and Ralls).
“We have had close to 8 feet of rise since April 21,” said White River Lake
See LAKE, page 4 Municipal Water District General Manager Shane Jones. “We were at 39.7% full as of Monday morning. That’s 15.78 feet below the full spillway.”
Since the White River Lake Marina first opened in 1965, it has seen quite a few changes. When the marin was purchased by A.O Smith in 2000, the lake was 12 feet below full. Just three years later, the water level had dropped to a record low of 25 feet below full. It wasn’t until 2015 that the lake saw a remarkable increase of 11.5 feet. A drought has continued to threaten water levels over the past several years, though this summer, things are looking up.
“Wehavebeenadrought for years,” Jones said. “The heat and wind don’t do us any favors. Last summer we didn’t have any rainfall, so we didn’t have a rise. Right now, the lake looks good compared to where it has been.”
The marina, under the new ownership of Josh and Kelly Ticer since 2023, has continued to add improvements to its RV sites and other amenities. In the Facebook group White River Reservoir Fishing and Fun, anglers have reported some excellent catches lately (and also reminded visitors that regulations prohibit vehicles within 150 feet of the lake’s edge, for safety).
Thanks to Texas Parks & Wildlife funding, a new ATV trail has also been added for outdoor enthusiasts, and the marina will be hosting a fireworks show this Friday night in celebration of Independence
