Oklahoma is home to a wealth of stunning freshwater lakes. Our guide offers you a deep dive into 8 best lakes in Oklahoma, covering everything from fishing hotspots to serene getaways. Ideal for day trips or extended vacations, these lakes beckon with unique attractions and beautiful landscapes. Dive in to find the Oklahoma lake that suits your style and leisure preferences.
1. Lake Eufaula: Oklahoma’s Largest Lake
What You Need to Know
Lake Eufaula takes the crown for being Oklahoma’s largest lake, sprawling over an astonishing 105,000 acres. Located in southeastern Oklahoma, its diverse shoreline offers sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coves.
Outdoor Fun
From jet skiing to leisurely swims and fishing, Lake Eufaula has something for everyone. Anglers particularly enjoy the abundance of catfish, bass, and crappie.
Travel Advice
The best time to visit Lake Eufaula is between April and October when the weather is most accommodating for outdoor activities. Given its popularity, early accommodation bookings and gear rentals at local marinas are highly recommended.
2. Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees: A Sailor’s Paradise
Overview
Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees is nestled in Oklahoma’s northeastern corner and covers more than 46,000 acres. Its surroundings of lush green hills make it one of the best lakes in Oklahoma for scenic beauty.
What To Do
If sailing is your forte, Grand Lake is your dream destination. For those who prefer angling, the lake’s diverse fish population won’t disappoint.
Insider Tips
Don’t miss the annual Fourth of July fireworks; it’s an experience like no other. Whether it’s camping or luxury lodgings, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Plus, nearby Grove offers dining and shopping opportunities.
3. Broken Bow Lake: The Oasis of Tranquility
Key Details
Tucked away in the Ouachita Mountains, Broken Bow Lake offers around 14,000 acres of unspoiled, crystal-clear water, ranking it among the best lakes in Oklahoma for peace and quiet.
Activities
Perfect for those who prefer a more subdued water experience, the lake’s calm waters are ideal for canoeing and kayaking. Moreover, it’s a hot spot for trout and bass fishing.
Planning Your Visit
Beavers Bend State Park is a neighboring natural treasure, perfect for camping and hiking. First-timers can take advantage of guided fishing or hiking tours to better experience this Oklahoman gem.
4. Tenkiller Ferry Lake: The Scuba Diving Gem
Need-to-Know Info
Often called “Oklahoma’s clear water paradise,” Tenkiller Ferry Lake stretches over 12,900 acres and is undoubtedly one of the best lakes in Oklahoma for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Activity Highlights
Apart from its underwater attractions, the lake offers excellent opportunities for boating, tubing, and wakeboarding. Anglers can look forward to catching species like large-mouth bass and walleye.
Tips for Your Trip
If you’re planning on scuba diving, several local shops offer gear rentals and lessons. It’s advisable to book accommodations well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the summer.
5. Lake Murray: A Hidden Gem for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Brief Intro
Lake Murray is situated within the Lake Murray State Park, Oklahoma’s oldest and largest state park. Covering about 5,700 acres, the lake serves as a smaller, quieter alternative to some of Oklahoma’s more bustling water bodies, yet it is equally deserving of its spot among the best lakes in Oklahoma.
Activities to Enjoy
Known for its clear blue waters, Lake Murray offers an array of water activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating. Anglers will also find the lake teeming with a variety of fish such as bass, catfish, and perch.
Valuable Visitor Tips
Lake Murray State Park also features golf courses and hiking trails for land-based adventure. Cabins and campgrounds are available for lodging, but they fill up quickly during peak season. It’s wise to make your reservations early to secure a spot.
6. Lake Texoma: Where Two States Meet
Basic Info
Lake Texoma rests on the boundary between Oklahoma and Texas, covering an expansive 89,000 acres. With a mix of sandy shores and rugged cliffs, this lake has a bit of everything.
Fun Stuff to Do
Fishing for striped bass is what Lake Texoma is famous for. Apart from fishing, water activities like boating and jet skiing keep visitors entertained.
Handy Tips
Interested in fishing? Many fishing charters offer a full Lake Texoma experience. And remember, you’ll need a fishing license that’s valid for both Oklahoma and Texas waters.
7. Lake Thunderbird: A Quick Escape
The Basics
Located not far from Norman, Lake Thunderbird covers about 6,000 acres and offers a close-to-home nature retreat for those living in the area.
Activity Highlights
Boating and fishing are regulars on the activity list. But the lake also offers over 18 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking.
Planning Your Trip
Being close to Norman and Oklahoma City, Lake Thunderbird is excellent for a day out. If you’re not local, you can rent any gear you might need from nearby outlets.
8. Lake Arbuckle: Serenity Awaits
Snapshot
Situated within the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Lake Arbuckle is a small but peaceful retreat covering about 2,300 acres.
Things to Do
Canoeing and kayaking are perfect here thanks to the calm waters. And if you fancy fishing, catfish and largemouth bass are often caught.
Travel Recommendations
Campsites are available within the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, so book ahead especially if you plan to visit during busy months.
You may also like our guide to 10 Best Lakes in North Carolina
