Kaw Lake
Overview
Kaw Lake is a great place for families and visitors of all ages to get away and enjoy all of the recreational opportunities such as boating, swimming, and birdwatching that are offered in this beautiful natrual setting. Kaw Lake is located in north central Oklahoma, approximately eight miles east of Ponca City, Oklahoma, on the Arkansas River. The lake covers 17,000 surface acres and has 168 miles of shoreline at the normal elevation of 1010.00 feet above sea level. There are nine public use areas and two lake access points located around the lake for visitors to enjoy. Campers can select from over 300 family campsites, many of which are equipped with water and electric hookups. Groups of all types enjoy three group camping areas, two of which are located at the Osage Cove Public Use Area and one located at the Sarge Creek Cove Area. Ten boat launching ramps provide boaters with easy access to Kaw Lake. Once on the water, boaters can find two full service marinas located at McFadden Cove and Pioneer Park. Swimmers are also invited to enjoy designated swimming areas at Pioneer Park and Sandy Park.
Activities
Boating
Ten boat launching ramps provide boaters with easy access to Kaw Lake. Once on the water, boaters can find two full service marinas located at McFadden Cove and Pioneer Park.
Bird Watching
One of Kaw Lake's most popular winter attractions is the American Bald Eagle. Traditionally, Kaw Lake has one of the states largest populations of wintering bald eagles. Numerous sites around the lake offer visitors excellent opportunities to view the USA's nation's symbol. Peak viewing usually occurs shortly after the first of the year and lasts through January.
Camping
Campers can select from over 300 family campsites, many of which are equipped with water and electric hookups. Groups of all types enjoy three group camping areas, two of which are located at the Osage Cove Public Use Area and one located at the Sarge Creek Cove Area. The majority of campsites are open from March 1 to November 30, though some are only open during the summer months.
Fishing
Kaw Lake and the Arkansas River have long been known for producing some of Oklahoma's largest catfish. Blue Catfishing at Kaw Lake is unmatched anywhere. Kaw Lake also offers anglers excellent opportunities to catch crappie, sand (white) bass and walleye.
Hiking
Hikers and horseback riders are attracted to the beautiful trails along Kaw Lake's eastern shore. The Eagle View Hiking Trail is approximately 12 miles long and runs between Osage Cove and Burbank Landing. Users should be aware that both trails are closed during Oklahoma's deer rifle and primitive firearms seasons.
Horseback Riding
The Five Fingers Equestrian Trail extends from Burbank Landing to the Sarge Creek Cove Public Use Area. Users should be aware that both trails are closed during Oklahoma's deer rifle and primitive firearms seasons.
Hunting
Game include: deer, turkey, quail, dove, waterfowl, rabbit and prairie chicken. During the fall waterfowl seasons Kaw Lake often attracts large numbers of migrating ducks and geese.
Off Highway Vehicles
Please contact the main number for more information.
Picnicking
Picnicking in the park offers visitors a chance to take in beautiful views of Kaw Lake.
RVing
Many of the sites at Kaw Lake are equipped with water and electric hookups.
Water Sports
There are nine public use areas and two lake access points located around the lake for visitors to enjoy. Swimmers are invited to enjoy designated swimming areas at Pioneer Park and Sandy Park.
Seasonality/Weather
The park is open year-round, but winter is the best time to see one of the park's main attractions: American bald eagles. Traditionally, Kaw Lake has one of the states largest populations of wintering bald eagles. Peak viewing usually occurs shortly after the first of the year and lasts through January. No campsite are open between November 30 to March 1.
Hiking and equestrian trails are closed during the fall hunting season.
Park Partners
McFadden Cove Concession, Kaw Landing Marina
(580) 765-0696
Directions
Driving
From Ponca City. 9.5 miles East on US 60, North on county road.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(580) 762-5611Links
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