Lake Whitney is a reservoir on the Brazos River, primarily located in Hill County with extensions into Bosque County. Created for flood control and to provide water for municipal, industrial, agricultural uses as well as recreational opportunities.

The lake has an area of about 23,500 acres (95 km2) with approximately 225 miles of shoreline. It was impounded by the completion of Whitney Dam by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in April 1951 and officially opened on July 17th that year.

As a main feature aside from its utilitarian purpose, Lake Whitney offers numerous outdoor activities such as fishing-known especially for striped bass-boating, swimming camping sites around scenic coves making it popular among locals tourists alike.

Lake Whitney, created by the construction of Whitney Dam on the Brazos River in 1951, was primarily designed for flood control and hydroelectric power generation. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers managed its development as part of a broader plan to harness rivers across Texas.

Before becoming a recreational area, surrounding lands were used for agriculture and ranching due to their fertile soil from riverine deposits over time. Ownership transitioned largely from private hands into federal management once plans for damming the river took shape.

The park itself encompasses historical features such as Native American sites that predate European settlement; these areas provide insight into early human habitation patterns within Central Texas. Additionally, remnants of pioneer life can be found throughout with old farmsteads dotting the landscape-echoes of those who cultivated this land before it became submerged under water after dam completion.

Today's use is predominantly recreational: camping facilities are available along with boat ramps providing access to waters popular among anglers seeking bass or catfish while hikers explore trails offering views unique to Hill Country terrain.