Sometimes a particular piece of the scenery attracts enough attention that it becomes the center of attention for a group of citizens.Through the years a forest, a mountain, even a man-made lake can become a treasured part of life. This is certainly the case with White Rock Lake, an important part of the community of east Dallas, Texas.
The lake was constructed in 1910 to help with the city's water shortage, but it served as the major water source for only 18 years. A cooperative effort by the Dallas Park Board and the Civilian Conservation Corps started lakeshore park development in the 1930s.
As many Dallas residents now know, the residential property around White Rock Lake is now quite desirable. This body of water is now a popular recreation site, with boating and fishing among the everyday activities. While swimming is not allowed, sailing is a favorite pastime for visitors. The park that now surrounds the lake has almost 10 miles of trails suitable for bicycling and hiking. Bird watching has become a very popular lake-area activity as well.
White Rock Lake is such a treasured part of the community that a group of lake enthusiasts have formed For The Love Of The Lake. Hard-working crew members donate considerable time to keeping the lake and lakeshore clean and encouraging visitors to enjoy the lake. Activities at various lake venues include concerts featuring well-known musicians, an annual marathon and nature presentations. Plans are underway for an ecology center associated with White Rock Lake.
If you visit, keep an eye out for the Lady of White Rock Lake, a ghostly legend reaching back several decades.
