Mountains may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Oklahoma, but the Sooner State is home to many mountain ranges that contain magnificent lakes, lush woods, and some of the best climbing in the area.
Tourists from all over travel to these natural wonderlands to get away from the city and spend some time in nature. There is one location in particular that continues attracting folks back.
Broken Bow Lake, probably Oklahoma’s most picturesque lake, is located between the Ouachita and Kiamichi mountains in southeastern Oklahoma. The Ouachita Mountains have one of the outstanding fall foliage drives in the country and are a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
The lake, which is about a three-hour drive from major towns like Dallas, Tulsa, and Little Rock, is easily accessible by automobile and offers a relief from the hustle and bustle of city and suburban life.
The man-made, 14,000-acre lake in the Ouachita National Forest is well-known for its pure water, fishing, and kayaking.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy spending time on the lake, horseback riding, and searching for crystals in one of the numerous neighboring crystal mines rich in crystal quartz.
Accommodations surrounding Broken Bow Lake range from rustic camping in the Ouachita National Forest to private, luxurious cabins nestled in the woods.
Water activities at Broken Bow Lake
Bring a swimsuit, boat, and fishing pole to Broken Bow Lake. The lake’s limestone bottom keeps the water pure and chilly, making it an ideal location for a dip. With approximately 180 miles of shoreline, the lake has numerous swimmer-friendly beaches and opportunities to get in the water.
There are additional swimming holes, rivers, and streams in the vicinity. Steven’s Gap, located on the west side of the lake in Beavers Bend State Park, is a favorite swimming site. It’s an excellent area to spend the day, with a beautiful beach, plenty of cover, and plenty of picnic tables.
Boaters and canoers can explore the lake’s southern islets. Beavers Bend Marina, the lake’s lone marina, rents out pontoon boats, ski boats, and jet skis. Broken Bow Lake is also a fisher’s paradise, and it is regarded as one of Oklahoma’s top year-round fishing spots.
Along fishing smallmouth bass, you may also catch largemouth bass, white bass, several varieties of catfish, sunfish, and crappie. You can also hire a local guide for a memorable fishing trip.
Kayaking is a popular sport in America, and while there are no urban kayaking paddle paths in the Broken Bow area, the lake is a kayaker’s paradise, with a variety of kayaking places for all skill levels. Choose between a self-guided tour and a tour guide-led day adventure.
What else is there to do in the area?
There are plenty of activities on Broken Bow Lake, but with so much to do in the surrounding area, you’ll probably want to set aside some time for exploration. Hochatown, the nearest town to Broken Bow Lake, offers lodging, shopping, family-friendly activities, and restaurants.
The majority of Hochatown’s lodgings and activities are conveniently placed along or along a single road. Families will love playing mini golf or driving go-karts at one of the town’s amusement parks. This little hub also has a number of wineries and breweries.
If you want to explore the scenery from the back of a horse, visit one of the nearby stables and take a forest trail ride. Riverman Trail Rides, located just a short drive from Hochatown, offers rides through the forest and over a river on peaceful, well-cared-for horses.
Hiking is widespread in the area, with trails ranging from short and easy to lengthy and difficult. Most people find the 1.2-mile Tree Trail easy, as it follows a flat, shaded trail.
Experienced hikers looking for a more strenuous route might select the Skyline Trail. This track is more than 8 miles long, with difficult inclines, but the prize is stunning views of the Mountain Fork River.