Boehmer Lake
Boehmer Lake: Texas’s Mysterious Toxic Oasis
By Robert Taller
Some places attract attention not because of their beauty or tranquility, but because they defy expectations. Boehmer Lake in Pecos County, West Texas, is one such place—a surreal, turquoise-colored lake that’s as striking as it is dangerous. I first heard of it while passing through Fort Stockton. Locals called it “The Sinkhole,” or sometimes “The Poison Pond.” What I discovered was a haunting landscape where nature and industry have collided in a most unexpected way.
What Is Boehmer Lake?
A Man-Made Environmental Anomaly
Boehmer Lake is not a natural lake. It formed over decades as the result of an uncapped, abandoned oil well leaking brine, hydrogen sulfide, and other chemicals into a natural depression. The result: a toxic body of water spanning over 60 acres, surrounded by cracked desert soil, salt crust, and the remains of long-abandoned oilfield infrastructure.
Located about 30 miles southwest of Imperial, Texas, Boehmer Lake is now a focal point in discussions around environmental management, neglected oil infrastructure, and water contamination in arid regions.
Can Tourists Visit Boehmer Lake?
Technically, Yes—But Should You?
Boehmer Lake sits on private land, but access is not heavily restricted. That said, visiting is strongly discouraged due to serious safety concerns. Hydrogen sulfide gas has been measured at deadly levels near the surface of the water. The lake is surrounded by signs warning of toxic conditions, unstable ground, and noxious fumes. For a full-fledged vacation I would recommend Bobs Lake in Ontario
If you do approach the lake, it should only be done from a safe distance, with proper safety gear, and ideally accompanied by someone familiar with the area. There are no services, trails, or guided tours—this is not a recreational destination, but an environmental cautionary tale.
How to Get to Boehmer Lake
Off the Beaten Path
From Fort Stockton, drive west toward Imperial along FM 11. The lake lies in a remote patch of desert near the border of Pecos and Crane counties. There are no formal road signs; a GPS coordinate and a willingness to drive on dirt roads are essential.
Nearest service points:
- Imperial, TX: Basic fuel and groceries
- Fort Stockton, TX: Lodging, food, emergency services
Where to Stay Nearby
Local Options
Since Boehmer Lake is uninhabitable and unsafe for overnight visits, your best lodging options are in Fort Stockton or Odessa.
| Location | Lodging Type | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
| Fort Stockton | Motel & Hotels | $70–$130 | Closest town with full services |
| Odessa | Hotels & Inns | $90–$180 | Better amenities, 1.5 hr drive away |
Where to Eat Near Boehmer Lake
You’ll need to eat before or after your trip, as the lake area has no services. Fort Stockton offers casual diners, fast food, and a few local favorites.
Recommended stops:
- B’s Family Dining: Classic Texan comfort food
- K-Bob’s Steakhouse: For hearty post-exploration meals
- Sagebrush Cafe: Coffee, pastries, and quick bites
Why Is Boehmer Lake Interesting?
A Lesson in Environmental Neglect
Boehmer Lake represents decades of regulatory limbo. The well at the lake’s center was drilled in the 1950s and later abandoned without proper sealing. What followed was a slow, unregulated leak of highly saline water and toxic gases. The resulting lake is a vivid blue, owing to its mineral content, but it masks a harsh reality. There is an example of a positive story for the people, such as on Mare Island, this same story is a reminder of how one can not value one’s own nature
This lake has become a case study for geologists, environmentalists, and journalists investigating the long-term consequences of poorly managed oil infrastructure. The hydrogen sulfide emitted from the site is dangerous at even low concentrations and can be fatal in high doses.
The Surreal Beauty of Toxicity
Despite its dangers, the lake has an eerie beauty. On a calm day, the mirror-like surface reflects a perfect Texas sky. The colors shift between turquoise and emerald, and salt formations shimmer like frost along the cracked shoreline. It’s an aesthetic contradiction—a deadly lake that looks like paradise.
Photographers, documentary filmmakers, and environmental activists occasionally visit the site to capture its haunting visuals. If you go, go with respect—for nature, for your safety, and for what this lake represents.
Best Time to Visit (From a Safe Distance)
| Season | Conditions |
| Spring | Mild weather, but potential for wind-spread gas |
| Summer | Extremely hot, risk of dehydration or gas exposure |
| Fall | Cooler and more stable air; best if visiting from afar |
| Winter | Harsh desert winds, not ideal for photography |
Practical Advice for Curious Travelers
- Do not enter the water or approach the well site.
- Stay upwind if you’re nearby. Hydrogen sulfide is heavier than air and can accumulate in low areas.
- Carry water and wear a mask if you plan to visit from a safe vantage point.
- Let someone know where you’re going. There is no cell service and no emergency support near the lake.
15+ FAQs About Boehmer Lake, Texas
Is Boehmer Lake natural?
No, it was formed by an abandoned oil well leaking brine and chemicals.
Can I swim in Boehmer Lake?
Absolutely not. The water is toxic and may emit deadly gases.
Is it safe to visit?
Only from a distance and with extreme caution.
Can I camp nearby?
Not recommended due to gas exposure risk.
Why is the water blue?
High salinity and minerals give it a turquoise appearance.
Is there a fence or barrier?
No, but warning signs are posted. Entry is discouraged.
Can I take photos?
Yes, from a safe distance. It’s visually stunning but hazardous.
Is there wildlife nearby?
Very little, as the area is contaminated.
Are there guided tours?
No, there are no official tours or visitor services.
How big is the lake?
It covers over 60 acres and is growing.
Who owns Boehmer Lake?
It sits on private land but has no active management.
Why hasn’t it been fixed?
Jurisdictional disputes and lack of funding have stalled cleanup.
Is hydrogen sulfide dangerous?
Yes, it’s lethal at high concentrations and can cause health issues even at low levels.
Can I fly a drone there?
Yes, if permitted by landowners. Aerial footage is common.
Has it ever harmed people?
No deaths have been reported, but there have been safety warnings.
Boehmer Lake isn’t beautiful in a traditional sense. Boehmer Lake is an interesting place for a one-time visit, and for contemplating nature I would recommend Mackworth Island. It’s a mirror reflecting our environmental choices, good and bad. It won’t offer you a refreshing swim or a postcard-perfect picnic. But if you’re the kind of traveler who’s curious about the forgotten places—the ones that tell stories of conflict between industry and nature—then Boehmer Lake might be worth the drive, from a safe distance, with eyes open and camera ready.
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