What’s the Largest Artificial Lake in Oklahoma?

Written by Jennifer Hollohan
Updated: June 3, 2023
© M.Curtis/Shutterstock.com
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Key Points:

  • The largest artificial lake in Oklahoma is Eufaula Lake. It is about two hours’ drive away from Oklahoma City and has more than 105,000 surface acres (159.4 square miles) and around 800 miles of shoreline.
  • It is a world-renowned location for fishing competitions. It’s in the top 10 lakes for crappie and the top 25 lakes for bass.
  • There are 31,800 acres of land open to hunters. If you enjoy hunting fowl, you’ll find geese, quail, and ducks. There is a sizable deer population to pursue during hunting season.

Finding lakes in the Midwest is not difficult. There are plenty to go around. And most people have a lake within close driving distance, which makes them ideal for a day excursion or a weekend getaway. Though, sometimes, you need a little extra room to enjoy your outdoor adventures without getting bombarded by people. 

Thankfully, Oklahoma has just the right solution for your problem. This laid-back state has more lakes than you might think! And each lake has plenty of opportunities to kick back and enjoy your time away. Before you hit the road, learn about the largest artificial lake in Oklahoma. 

What is the Largest Artificial Lake in Oklahoma?

The largest artificial lake in Oklahoma is Eufaula Lake. This stunning lake is in the state’s southeastern part and has over 105,000 surface acres (159.4 sq miles). But that’s not all. The expansive lake also has roughly 800 miles of shoreline!

You can reach Eufaula Lake in an easy drive from Oklahoma City, which is only two hours away. It sits on the Canadian river and spans four counties. 

Eufaula Laek’s construction got approved in 1946, and after the completion of the corresponding dam, Eufaula Lake rapidly earned its name as a destination lake. Now, roughly 2.5 million people visit the beautiful lake every year.

Eufaula Lake Oklahoma
There are nearly 800 miles of shoreline along Eufaula Lake.

©JohnDSmith/Shutterstock.com

Is Eufaula Lake the Largest Lake in Oklahoma?

Yes, Eufaula Lake is the largest lake in Oklahoma.

The second-largest lake in Oklahoma is Lake Texoma, which formed after the dam’s completion in 1944.

There are many lakes in Oklahoma of varying sizes. However, most got constructed by people. The only natural lakes are a series of small playa and oxbow lakes. 

Lake Texoma, Eisenhower State Park
Lake Texoma is the second-largest lake in Oklahoma.

©Desmond Hebert/Shutterstock.com

What Can You Do at Eufaula Lake?

Enjoy nature, a relaxing day on the water, or a scenic hike when you visit Eufaula Lake. It is a world-renowned location for fishing competitions and attracts fishermen from all over. Eufaula Lake is in the top 10 lakes for crappie and the top 25 lakes for bass. Guided fishing is also available if you are new to the area (or to fishing).

And hunters shouldn’t feel left out. Around the lake, there are 31,800 acres of land open to hunters. If you enjoy hunting fowl, Eufaula Lake is your dream spot. You will find geese, quail, and ducks. Additionally, there is a sizable deer population to pursue during hunting season.

On top of that, the lake is ideal for many water sports. It has five marinas to launch your boats. Visitors can go waterskiing, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. 

If you want to stay for a while, Eufaula Lake offers plenty of options. There are RV spots, rental cabins and homes, and vacation homes right on the lake. Any tent campers will love the established campsites. And there is even a Jellystone Park Camp perfect for kids! 

Finish your time off on the trail. Eufaula Lake has lots of wonderful hiking trails. They are the perfect way to catch a glimpse of local wildlife.

Lake over Eufaula Lake
Eufaula Lake has world-class fishing.

©M.Curtis/Shutterstock.com

What Wildlife Lives Near Eufaula Lake?

Fishing is the name of the game at Eufaula Lake. Anglers will discover white bass, blue catfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, crappie, sunfish, and flathead catfish.

But there is a diverse wildlife population above the water as well. Near the lake, the Eufaula WMA spans 48,614 acres. It has incredible bio-diversity. Plenty of waterfowl, turkeys, rabbits, raccoons, doves, squirrels, white-tailed deer, coyotes, otters, and bobcats roam the area. 

If you are really lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a bald eagle. The majestic bird nests at Eufaula Lake in the winter. However, that is not the only flying friend bird watchers will love. Nearly 20 bird species live around the lake: you may also see geese, ducks, waterbirds, and shorebirds, in addition to all the wildlife that calls Eufaula Lake home.

Where is Eufaula Lake Located on a Map?

Lake Eufaula, also known as Eufaula Lake, is a man-made lake situated in Oklahoma. It is formed by damming the Canadian River and is positioned approximately 27 miles upstream from the point where the Canadian River joins the Arkansas River. The lake is in close proximity to the town of Eufaula.

Here is Eufaula Lake on a map:

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The Featured Image

Beach on Eufaula Lake
Beach on Eufaula Lake
© M.Curtis/Shutterstock.com

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About the Author

Jennifer is a writer, Nutritionist, and Herbalist, and hobby gardener. She is passionate about writing and enjoys digging into new, unique topics. When not glued to the computer screen, she loves hanging out with her kids, working in her garden, and crafting crazy culinary delights.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

What is the largest natural lake in Oklahoma?

The natural lakes in Oklahoma are quite a bit smaller than their man made counterparts. The largest is 272 acres, and is in McCurtain County near the Red River.

What is the deepest lake in Oklahoma?

The deepest lake in Oklahoma is Broken Bow Lake. It is 185 feet deep.

Are there alligators in Eufaula Lake?

The small population of alligators that live in Oklahoma is far from Eufaula Lake. So you can enjoy your water sports worry free!

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.

Sources
  1. Oklahoma history, Available here: https://www.okhistory.org/publications/enc/entry.php?entry=LA010
  2. Lake Eufaula, Available here: https://www.lakeeufaula.com/information
  3. Department of Wildlife, Available here: https://www.wildlifedepartment.com/hunting/wma/southeast/eufaula-wma