Okmulgee Lake offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, boating and water sports; its wooded shoreline stretches for 20 miles. Lakes and trails are a natural highlight of Okmulgee County, while museums and historic sites tell other stories about the region.
Lakes, Shores and Trails
Okmulgee Lake was created in 1926 and covers 668 acres of water. A different experience awaits at the Okmulgee & Dripping Springs Lake Recreation Area: Dripping Springs Lake, covering 1,150 acres, is designated Oklahoma’s first “Trophy Bass Lake.”
On the east shore of Okmulgee Lake, Okmulgee State Park offers an accessible fishing pier, a boat ramp and a swimming beach. The park’s Oak Leaf Nature Trail consists of several loops, offering different walks without retracing the same paths. Several viewpoints offer scenic views of the lake. Half a mile of the trail is paved and accessible; beginner to intermediate experience is recommended for the rest. Check the latest information on facilities and trail conditions before your visit.
More Outdoor Experiences
Within the 300-acre Historic Nichols Park lies 17-acre Jim Hall Lake. Several fish species and some aquatic turtles can be found there. The park also has a 54-hole disc golf course that regularly hosts tournaments. Campsites are also available on site. If you plan to use them, check current availability before your trip.
Local Life and History
The Okmulgee Farmer's Market has been held annually since 2013. Offerings include fresh fruit and vegetables, local eggs and beef, baked goods and handmade products; honey is available when possible. Alongside outdoor and cultural discoveries, you can also explore the food and goods offered at the market.
The Creek Nation Council House Museum offers guided tours for school groups and groups of all ages. Admission to the Creek Nation Council House is free. Confirm tour arrangements before you arrive, and check the latest admission information.
The Henryetta Territorial Museum is housed in a one-room schoolhouse built in 1905, which also served as a public library and courtroom. The museum is the official home of the Joseph W. Hardin Photography Collection and houses exhibits about Troy Aikman and Jim Shoulders. Since museum content may change, it’s worth checking the current exhibit topics before your visit.
The Okmulgee Downtown Historic District covers several blocks, including the African American business district at 5th and 6th Streets. More than 140 buildings in the district were nominated for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places because of their architectural significance and importance to the city’s history.
Discover more destinations: Henryetta, Okmulgee, Jefferson County, Ottawa, Murray County, Kingfisher, Grady County, Cotton County.
For the overview of the wider region: Oklahoma.
