Oklahoma may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of great places to kayak, but believe it or not, the Sooner State has some amazing paddling destinations.
Whether you’re looking for lazy rivers, exciting whitewater rapids, or peaceful lakes, Oklahoma has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to kayak in Oklahoma (written by locals).
Lake Tenkiller is nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, making it an excellent and scenic place to kayak. Kayakers can tour around the lake to bluffs and cliffs that jet out over the water.
Also nested in the foothills of the Ozark Plateau in northeast Oklahoma, Grand Lake is a popular lake to escape the summer heat and get out on the water. Encompassing over 46,500 acres, there are many coves and places to find solitude kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddle boarding.
Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced kayaker, Lake Murray is the perfect spot to paddle around and have some fun. The lake is large and offers plenty of room for kayakers to explore, and there are plenty of places to find good fishing spots.
Lake Hefner is another excellent place to kayak on weekends or after work if you live near Oklahoma City. Bring your own paddling gear or rent stand-up paddleboards or kayaks from Riversport OKC. You can also learn to sail here!
Lake Bixhoma is a small lake south of Tulsa, Oklahoma. The lake is a tucked-away gem perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing. It is free to paddle here, and due to its size, there typically isn’t much traffic in the area.