10 Beautiful Lakes In Oklahoma, USA

1. Broken Bow Lake

This 22 miles (35 kilometers) long reservoir is one of Oklahoma’s largest freshwater lakes. It is a well-known vacation spot for both locals and visitors alike. Its waters reach up until the Ouachita Mountain, where nature enthusiasts can hike and watch different species of birds flying around. Broken Bow Lake is about 185 feet (56 meters) deep, making it ideal for bass fishing for the whole year.

Broken Bow Lake

Address: Broken Bow Lake, Broken Bow, OK 74728

Website: Broken Bow Lake

2. Lake Hefner

Built in 1947, Lake Hefner is a reservoir located in the northwest of Oklahoma City. It was originally created to increase the water supply in Oklahoma City. Now, it also serves as a recreational hub where people can drop by to catch a variety of game fish and water birds or go on sailboat races. Surrounding the lake are parks, playground, picnic sites, golf facilities, and running trails that people of all ages can enjoy.

Lake Hefner

Address: Portland & Lakeshore Dr, Oklahoma City, OK 73116

Website: Lake Hefner

Opening hours: 5am - 11pm (daily)

3. Eufaula Lake

Eufaula Lake, or Lake Eufaula, is Oklahoma’s largest lake, spread across 102,000 acres (41,277 hectares) of surface area. There are tons of water sports that you can try here, such as skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. You can rent a houseboat, pontoon boat, ski boat, or paddle boat at nearby marinas, as well as boating accessories to make sure your boating trip is complete. There are fishing tournaments held every year, if you’re in the mood for some competition. Don’t miss out on the chance to see Oklahoma’s wildlife for yourself while you stroll on the shores.

Eufaula Lake State Park

Address: 111563 Hwy 150, Checotah, OK 74426

Website: Eufaula Lake State Park

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

4. Keystone Lake

Take a break from your everyday routine and discover up to 54,320 acres (21,983 hectares) of natural beauty in northeastern Oklahoma. You’ll be surrounded by sandstone bluffs, sandy beaches, clear waters, and 11 recreation areas. You can choose to stay in a fully furnished cabin or go camping under the stars. Release some pent up stress by fishing or hunting for squirrels, rabbits, and birds. Other facilities like restrooms, showers, and playgrounds for the little kids are available for use, too.

Keystone State Park

Address: 1926 State Hwy 151, Sand Springs, OK 74063

Website: Keystone State Park

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 9am - 6pm; Fri - Sat: 9am - 8pm

5. Lake Texoma

With nearly six million visitors every year, Lake Texoma is one of Oklahoma’s most popular tourist attractions. This is due to its massive size and close proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. There are two state parks and wildlife sanctuaries, 12 marinas, 26 resorts, and a number of campsites and golf courses near the lake. Not to mention, the lake has turned into one of the biggest sailing centers because of its miles upon miles of shoreline. Whether you’re a horse lover or simply curious about horseback riding, Lake Texoma is a good place to start. Feel like royalty as you ride a horse while taking in the stunning views.

Lake Texoma State Park

Address: 11500 Park Office Rd., Kingston, OK 73439

Website: Lake Texoma

Opening hours: 9am - 4:30pm (daily)

6. Lake Murray

Lake Murray is a secret little sanctuary inside of the largest state park in Oklahoma. The lake is lined up with parks, beaches, and marinas for your entertainment. Climb on top of Tucker Tower to get a bird’s-eye view of the lake and its crystal clear waters. Run away from crowded and noisy places by riding a horse along a peaceful trail. If you take comfort in the company of other people, you can swim or splash around with them. After a tiring day, stay under a pavilion and grill some meat for everyone to share. Make unforgettable memories with your family and friends right here.

Lake Murray State Park

Address: 13528 Scenic Hwy 77, Ardmore, OK 73401

Website: Lake Murray

Opening hours: 7am - 11pm (daily)

7. Tenkiller Ferry Lake

Tenkiller Ferry Lake, or Lake Tenkiller, is the sixth largest lake in Oklahoma and is often visited by nature enthusiasts, most especially scuba divers. First of all, you’ll get to swim through 8 to 20 feet (2 to 6 meters) of translucent water. Secondly, you’ll most definitely catch a glimpse of sunken planes, boats, and the ruins of communities that were flooded years ago. Waiting for you at the bottom of the lake is a thrilling adventure and stories of ancient history. So, what are you waiting for?

Tenkiller Ferry Lake

Address: 446977 E 980 Rd, Cookson, OK 74427

Website: Tenkiller Ferry Lake

8. Lake Thunderbird

Being the only urban state park in Oklahoma, Lake Thunderbird boasts of plenty of water and recreation activities. The park has two marinas for boat rentals and two beaches for swimming. It can accommodate up to more than 300 recreational vehicles and has all the facilities to make your stay outdoors as comfortable as possible. You can have fun at the playground, eat some snacks at the picnic tables, or shoot some arrows at the archery range. You’ll have access to multiple biking, hiking, walking, and horseback riding trails. There are certain areas where you can hunt for deer and waterfowl. If you visit around December to February, you’ll be able to see bald eagles flying overhead. To know more about these majestic creatures, take the eagle tour at the Crown’s Secret Nature Center.

Lake Thunderbird State Park

Address: 13101 Alameda Dr., Norman, OK 73026

Website: Lake Thunderbird State Park

Opening hours: 8am - 4:30pm (daily)

9. Lake Overholser

If you’re looking for an easy, convenient, and memorable day trip, head over to Lake Overholser. On the southwest side of the lake, there’s a sheltered fishing pier where you can go fishing. While swimming is prohibited, you can still enjoy the water by taking a boat ride. Learn about Oklahoma’s wildlife at the Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge located around the area. Bring a picnic basket with you and make the most out of your trip by eating outside and watching the sunset.

Lake Overholser

Address: 1800 Overholser Dr., Oklahoma City, OK 73155

Website: Lake Overholser

Opening hours: 6am - 11pm (daily)

10. Lake Hudson

Lake Hudson, located at the bottom of the Ozark Mountains, is the best spot to go to if you have a competitive spirit. Considered as one of the perfect lakes for bass fishing, catch different kinds of bass such as but not limited to largemouth bass, black bass, and spotted bass. Aside from fishing, the area around the lake is famous among hunters, especially during fall and winter due to the abundance of deer, duck, and geese roaming around. However, if you just want to sit back and relax, you can lounge on the shore and simply watch the fantastic scenery. Whatever your ideal vacation is, Lake Hudson will make it happen for you.

Lake Hudson

Address: Mayes County, Oklahoma

Website: Lake Hudson

The outdoor awaits

Oklahoma is often visited by millions of tourists every year, and it’s easy to tell why. With its refreshing views, abundant wildlife, and unique recreational activities, it has something for everyone. Don’t limit yourself to the four walls of your room. Instead, take a step outside and explore the great outdoors.