Lake Thunderbird
Overview
Lake Thunderbird, situated in central Oklahoma, is an incredibly popular tourist destination that hosts tens of thousands of visitors each year. Lake Thunderbird is the largest body of water within a 100-mile radius, which is likely part of the reason it is so popular among water-seekers. The lake has approximately 6,000 acres of open water, all of which are available for extensive visitor use. The state of Oklahoma has established Lake Thunderbird State Park on the shores of the lake, which is framed by rolling, oak-covered hills and sandy shores with some 86 miles of shoreline. Fishing is excellent on Lake Thunderbird with largemouth bass, catfish and walleye being the most sought after species by anglers. A nearby large public hunting area offers seasonal opportunities to hunt such game as duck, goose, rabbit, deer, squirrel and quail. Other activities at and around Lake Thunderbird include fishing, hunting, boating, sailing, sailboarding, picnic areas, jogging, walking, bicycling and many others. For overnight accommodations and additional recreational activities, see Lake Thunderbird State Park.
Activities
Boating
Nine boat launch ramps with 23 boat launch lanes are scattered around Lake Thunderbird. Calypso Cove Marina in Lake Thunderbird State Park also offers paddle boat and canoe rentals, boat storage, a ship's store and a gas dock.
Bicycling
Mountain biking trails in the nearby Lake Thunderbird State Park offer excitement and beautiful views of the lake.
Camping
500 campsites, both tent and RV accessible, are available in the bordering Lake Thunderbird State Park.
Fishing
Predominate species in Lake Thunderbird include largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and saugeye.
Hiking
Nature trails in Lake Thunderbird State Park offer chances to enjoy the beautiful natural settings around the lake.
Horseback Riding
Thunderbird Riding Stables is located adjacent to Lake Thunderbird in Lake Thunderbird State Park along with 500 acres of riding trails. The stables offer unescorted horseback riding and hayrides for folks who wish to step back in time to the old frontier days. Horse boarding also available.
Hunting
Deer archery and waterfowl hunting is available in specified areas during certain seasons.
Picnicking
500 picnic tables in 10 picnic areas and 11 picnic shelters are scattered conveniently around Lake Thunderbird.
RVing
RV camping with full hookups is offered by Lake Thunderbird State Park.
Water Sports
Two swimming beaches offer access for visitors to cool off in Lake Thunderbird's serene waters.
Seasonality/Weather
Fishing is available on the lake year-round.
Directions
Driving
Lake Thunderbird is about 13 miles east of Norman off of State Road 9. The lake is also about 30 miles southeast of Oklahoma City.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(405) 364-7634Links
Official URL
http://www.usbr.gov/gp/recreation/normrec.htm- Login or register to post comments
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