Eufaula, Grand and Tenkiller are some of the state’s largest lakes – and among its biggest outdoor attractions – but water isn’t the only reason they’re so popular with visitors.
Lake Tenkiller
Known as the state’s “heaven in the hills,”
Lake Tenkiller in Cookson boasts beautiful emerald water, towering rock bluffs and serene shorelines that seem to stretch on forever. Crystal clear water at Tenkiller has made this lake a haven for scuba enthusiasts. An underwater dive park packed with sunken treasures beckons divers year-round. Marinas at Lake Tenkiller offers everything from wakeboards to paddle boards to kayaks pontoons.
A stay at family resort Fin & Feather gives access to sand volleyball, basketball, tennis, catch-and-release fishing, a playground, shaded disc golf course, enclosed pool and overnight accommodations close to the water. Get closer to nature by pitching your tent at one of Tenkiller State Park’s 144 tent sites scattered between 10 separate camping areas crawling with wildlife like deer, quail, dove, geese and rabbits.
Lake Eufaula
With 105,500 surface acres and 600 miles of stunning shoreline, Eufaula is Oklahoma’s largest lake and proves to be the perfect setting for swimming, boating, fishing and waterfront camping. The water is the star in Eufaula, where sandy beaches are prime spots for swimming and area marinas rent all types of watercrafts.
When you grow weary of the water, head back to shore and dry off for a relaxing game of golf at nearby Fountainhead Creek Golf Club or Arrowhead Golf Course. Eufaula caters to a variety of interests with miles of trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding winding throughout the two state parks. Crappie, catfish, striper and many types of bass are commonly caught at the lake. Eufaula Lake even has an enclosed, heated dock so the fun won’t stop when warm weather fades.
When the sun sets, tuck into a tent at one of the nearby campsites. With more than 150 RV sites there’s plenty of space to bring your own RV for a more luxurious camping experience.
Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees
The view of northeast Oklahoma from a parasail 500 feet above the water’s surface is hard to beat, and parasailing is just one of many activities offered at Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees in Grove. With five park areas situated around the shoreline, there are plenty of lodging, dining and recreation options.
Stay at the Tera Miranda Harbor & Resort, where you’ll have your pick of lodges and cabins with amenities like equipped kitchens, outdoor decks and a community pool.
The Honey Creek Area is a dream for fishermen angling for bass, catfish, bluegill, spoonbill and crappie. Grand Lake is just as well known for recreation on land as it is for activities in its sparkling waters. Dry off and head to D-Day Adventure Park and try your hand at paintball, where seven playing fields offer action-packed entertainment. Hogan’s Off Road Park in Disney is the ideal setting for ATV and ORV adventure with five square miles of trails and rock structures.
