➠ THINGS
TO DO
Quick guide to lakes and rivers near Tulsa
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Oklahoma has more shoreline than both coasts combined. Visit one of these area lakes and rivers for a variety of activities or just a relaxing day on the water. By Anne Brockman
Grand Lake 918-782-3214, www.grandlakechamber.org Created in 1940, Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees is ideal for water activities, including boating, skiing, swimming, sailing and fishing. While not on the water, visit the area’s many museums, golf courses, shops and communities. Grand Lake is managed by the Grand River Dam Authority and is one of only two lakes in the state that allows waterfront property. Located about one hour northeast of Tulsa. Take Interstate 44 east toward Joplin, with multiple exits available for Grand Lake.
Lake Eufaula 918-689-7751, www.visitlakeeufaula.com Lake Eufaula is the largest manmade lake in Oklahoma and has more than 600 miles of shoreline. While the lake is known for its outstanding fishing, Lake Eufaula State Park offers a nature center, golf course, hiking trails and more for visitors. Nearby towns Eufaula and Krebs are great places to spend an afternoon or enjoy an evening meal. Located about 1 1/2 hours south of Tulsa. Take Oklahoma 51 and the Muskogee Turnpike east to U.S. Highway 69 South.
Fort Gibson Lake 918-485-4623, www.fortgibsonlake.com With its lakeshores only 5 miles from the historic Fort Gibson site, this lake is a popular destination for local anglers, fall foliage tours
44 Tulsa Guest Guide
and wildlife spectators. The Lodge at Sequoyah State Park and the park itself are popular destinations, with a golf course, hiking trails, nature center and marina. Located about an hour east of Tulsa. Take Oklahoma 51 East through Wagoner.
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The Upper Illinois River is located about 1 1/2 hours from Tulsa. Follow Oklahoma 51 and the Muskogee Turnpike to U.S. Highway 62 East through Tahlequah. The Lower Illinois River is located about 1 1/2 hours southeast of Tulsa. Travel east on Oklahoma 51 and the Muskogee Turnpike to U.S. Highway 64 East toward the Gore area.
Lake Tenkiller 918-457-4403, www.laketenkiller.com Located near the Cherokee Hills Scenic Byway, Lake Tenkiller is known for some of the clearest water in Oklahoma, attracting those who love to fish, boat, swim and be around nature. While in the area, many visit the Cookson Game Refuge to see Oklahoma wildlife. Numerous hiking and biking trails surround the lake and outlying area. Located about 1 1/2 hours from Tulsa. Take Oklahoma 51 and the Muskogee Turnpike east, continuing through Webbers Falls along Oklahoma 100.
Illinois River 918-456-3251, www.oklahomascenicrivers.net Divided into the Upper and Lower, the Illinois River provides a wealth of scenic options for fishing and nature junkies. The Upper Illinois is known for its scenic river and has proved to be a popular rafting destination, with numerous outfitters available along the waterway. The Lower Illinois is the only yearround trout stream in Oklahoma, stocked weekly March through the Fourth of July and biweekly the rest of the year.
Skiatook Lake www.greatertulsa.com/skiatook/skiatooklake Skiatook Lake and its dam were completed in 1984 to maintain flood control, water quality, water supply, and fish and wildlife. With its picturesque bluffs, the lake is the perfect setting for boating, swimming, camping, hunting and fishing. For a more sophisticated lodging and entertainment option, visit the nearby Osage Casino-Skiatook on Highway 20, just west of U.S. Highway 75. The new casino features a boutique 33-room, full-service hotel with a pool and fitness room; a restaurant; a sports bar; and a convenience store. The property also has more than 2,500 square feet of meeting and convention space. Located about an hour northwest of Tulsa. Take Highway 75 North, followed by Highway 20 West. Other area lakes and rivers include the Arkansas River, which follows Tulsa’s Riverside Drive, and Keystone Lake in nearby Sand Springs.