Those of us traveling in Oklahoma summers prefer to be submerged in cool water at every given opportunity. Like animals of the African savannah, we move in herds to life-sustaining watering holes. Fortunately for us, though, the threat of predators is minimal, and Oklahoma State Parks offer affordable and accessible swim escapes. From metro-adjacent favorites like Lake Keystone and Lake Thunderbird to popular destinations like Lake Sequoyah or Lake Texoma, there’s no shortage of options. Here are six other state parks where you can beat the heat.
Lakes and Boating
Set sail for a refreshing getaway at one of Oklahoma's lakes. With more miles of shoreline than the Gulf and Atlantic Coasts combined, Oklahoma is a lake lover's paradise with plenty of uncrowded waters. The state is home to more than 200 lakes and offers over a million surface acres that are perfect for boating, swimming, fishing and all kinds of water recreation.
Whether you prefer a sailboat on Lake Hefner, one of the best sailing lakes in America, or a fishing boat on trophy bass lakes like McGee Creek Reservoir, Oklahoma has a lake experience tailor made for you. Charter a yacht or bring your own boat of any size to Grand Lake and enjoy the open water and upscale lakeside communities. Rent a jet ski and skim across the surface of Lake Murray, or bring your scuba gear and enjoy the Lake Tenkiller dive park. Fish, swim and go boating by day, then listen to the lake lap against the shore at night at one of Oklahoma's many lakes.
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