What’s the Largest Artificial Lake in Oklahoma?

Finding lakes in the Midwest is not difficult. There are plenty to go around. 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 was 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.

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 were constructed by people. The only natural lakes are a series of small playa and oxbow lakes. 

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.

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:

The photo featured at the top of this post is © M.Curtis/Shutterstock.com