Top Lakes in Oklahoma for Your Next Outdoor Adventure

Searching for the best lakes in Oklahoma for your next adventure? Whether you’re into fishing, boating, hiking, or just relaxing by the water, this guide covers the top spots. Learn about unique features and activities each lake offers to make the most of your trip.

Key Takeaways

• Oklahoma is home to diverse lakes, each offering unique outdoor activities like fishing, boating, hiking, and crystal digging.

• Popular lakes like Lake Eufaula and Lake Texoma attract visitors year-round for their recreational opportunities and scenic beauty.

• Lesser-known lakes such as Tom Steed Reservoir and Bath Lake provide peaceful environments for relaxation and wildlife watching.

Best Oklahoma Lakes – #1 Lakes in Oaklahoma?

Lake Eufaula: Oklahoma’s Largest Lake

Lake Eufaula, Oklahoma’s largest lake, is ideal for outdoor adventures. With approximately 102,200 surface acres and a shoreline stretching about 600 miles, it provides plenty of space for numerous activities. Located primarily in McIntosh and Pittsburg counties, Lake Eufaula has been a favorite spot for both locals and tourists since its dedication by President Lyndon Johnson in 1964.

Fishing enthusiasts will love Lake Eufaula for its variety of fish species, including crappie, bass, catfish, and walleye. Whether casting from the shore or boating, a big catch is almost assured. The lake is home to largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and Kentucky bass, making it a hotspot for anglers.

Beyond fishing, Lake Eufaula provides numerous family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, or simply soaking in the natural beauty. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, offering endless opportunities for fun and relaxation.

Scenic Beauty of Broken Bow Lake

Nestled in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains in southeastern Oklahoma, Broken Bow Lake is a haven for nature lovers. Created in 1968, this lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, nourished by the Mountain Fork River, making it one of the most scenic lakes in the state. Surrounded by heavily wooded landscapes, Broken Bow Lake offers a picturesque setting that attracts visitors year-round.

Broken Bow Lake offers various boat rental options, including pontoons and jet skis, for water enthusiasts. The area is also a hotspot for rock hounds, thanks to the presence of quartz rocks along the shoreline.

Hiking through the woods, fishing in clear waters, or simply enjoying the view, Broken Bow Lake promises tranquility and adventure.

Outdoor Fun at Lake Murray State Park

Lake Murray State Park, encompassing over 12,500 acres, is the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Located in southern Oklahoma, this state park offers a wide range of activities that cater to all ages and interests. Paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, and boating are just a few ways to enjoy the water.

A notable landmark is Tucker Tower, built in 1933, now serving as a geological museum with expansive lake views. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a great photo opportunity, Tucker Tower is a must-visit.

For land activities, Lake Murray State Park features multiple campgrounds with modern amenities such as showers and playgrounds, ideal for family camping trips. Additionally, the Pecan Grove day-use area offers numerous picnic tables and scenic walking trails, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees: A Premier Destination

Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees, often simply known as Grand Lake, is a premier destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Spanning 46,500 acres with a shoreline of 1,300 miles, this lake offers a variety of activities that cater to all tastes. Grand Lake offers boating, swimming, and picnicking options, catering to all tastes.

Grand Lake boasts excellent bass fishing opportunities, with guided services available for crappie and bass catches. After a day on the water, visitors can enjoy dining at popular spots like Cedar Port Marina and Clanton’s Café, adding to the lake’s appeal.

Relaxing Getaway at Keystone Lake

Keystone Lake offers a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor activities. Spanning 54,000 surface acres, Keystone Lake offers ample space for boating, fishing, skiing, and camping. The scenery around Keystone Lake is nothing short of spectacular, featuring sandy beaches and sandstone bluffs that create a tranquil and picturesque environment.

Exploring hiking trails, setting up camp, or simply enjoying the view, Keystone Lake ensures a peaceful getaway. Wildlife spotting is another popular activity here, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts.

Unique Experiences at Great Salt Plains Lake

Great Salt Plains Lake stands out for its unique characteristics and activities. The lake’s salinity, about half that of the ocean, is a remnant of a prehistoric ocean, making it a fascinating spot to visit. One of the lake’s most distinctive features is the opportunity to dig for hourglass-shaped selenite crystals, a rare activity available only in Oklahoma. The crystal digging area is open seasonally from April 1 to October 15, attracting visitors from all over.

Great Salt Plains Lake also offers swimming, canoeing, and kayaking in addition to crystal digging. Fishing is popular, with species such as catfish, saugeye, sand bass, and hybrid striper inhabiting the lake.

Family-Friendly Activities at Lake Hefner

Lake Hefner, located in Oklahoma City, is a fantastic destination for families looking for outdoor fun. The lake features nearly 10 miles of paved trails, perfect for walking, running, and cycling. These trails provide stunning views of the lake and its surroundings, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely day out.

One of the most iconic features of Lake Hefner is its lighthouse, which is considered one of the most photographed spots in Oklahoma City, especially at sunset. Visitors can also enjoy sailboating and kite surfing, besides walking and cycling, ensuring diverse activities for everyone.

Adventures at Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma, one of the largest lakes in the United States, is a hotspot for adventure seekers. Attracting over six million visitors annually, this lake offers a wide range of activities, particularly during the summer months. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular here, providing a fun way to explore the lake’s vast waters.

Fishing at Lake Texoma is also a major draw, with the lake being renowned for its excellent striped bass fishing. Looking to catch your next big fish or simply enjoy a day on the water, Lake Texoma never disappoints.

Wildlife Watching at Kaw Lake

Kaw Lake is a paradise for wildlife watchers, particularly known for its American Bald Eagle sightings during the winter months. The lake’s fertile waters also support a variety of fish species, including large catfish, crappie, sand bass, and walleye, making it a popular spot for anglers.

Besides wildlife watching and fishing, Kaw Lake offers boating and swimming among other recreational activities. Designated swimming areas like Sandy Beach provide a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors of all ages.

Lake Tenkiller: A Diver’s Paradise

Lake Tenkiller is a must-visit for scuba diving enthusiasts. Known for its clear waters, Lake Tenkiller features a dedicated underwater dive park with various submerged objects for exploration, including a sunken airplane, school bus, helicopter, and two boats. These unique underwater sights make it a diver’s paradise.

Lake Tenkiller also offers amenities like Pine Cove Marina, ski boat rentals, camping sites, and beaches, providing plenty to do both in and out of the water.

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Lakes

While famous lakes often steal the spotlight, Oklahoma lakes also have several lesser-known gems worth exploring. Tom Steed Reservoir offers camping spots and scenic views that attract bird watchers, including those looking for sandhill cranes and whooping cranes. The reservoir is also stocked with fish species like saugeye and striped bass, making it a great spot for fishing.

Bath Lake is known for its peaceful environment, making it ideal for relaxation. Lake Overholser combines urban and natural experiences, including the historic Route 66 bridge, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Summary

Oklahoma’s lakes offer a diverse range of activities and experiences that cater to all types of outdoor enthusiasts. From the sprawling Lake Eufaula to the crystal-clear waters of Broken Bow Lake, each destination provides its own unique charm and opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re fishing, boating, hiking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, these lakes promise unforgettable memories.

As you plan your next outdoor adventure, consider exploring some of these incredible lakes in Oklahoma. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next getaway. Pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready to experience the natural wonders of Oklahoma’s lakes.

Reviews of Oklahoma Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest lake in Oklahoma?

Lake Eufaula is Oklahoma’s largest lake, stretching over 102,200 surface acres and featuring around 600 miles of shoreline. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy some beautiful outdoor scenery!

What unique activity can I do at Great Salt Plains Lake?

You can dig for hourglass-shaped selenite crystals at Great Salt Plains Lake, which is a special experience unique to Oklahoma. It’s a fun way to connect with nature and discover something truly one-of-a-kind!

Where can I go scuba diving in Oklahoma?

You should check out Lake Tenkiller; it has clear waters and a dedicated underwater dive park that makes it perfect for scuba diving!

What family-friendly activities are available at Lake Hefner?

You’ll love the nearly 10 miles of paved trails for walking, running, or cycling at Lake Hefner! Plus, there’s plenty of opportunities for sailboating and kite surfing, making it a great spot for family fun.

Which lake is best for wildlife watching?

Kaw Lake is great for wildlife watching, especially if you’re hoping to see American Bald Eagles in the winter. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy nature!