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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Arbuckle Lake

Dougherty, Oklahoma · Murray County

Lake of the Arbuckles is forned by Arbuckle Dam which is a feature of the Arbuckle Project. The lake is located at the confluence of the Buckhorn, Guy Sandy, and Rock Creeks. The area presents unusual opportunities, combining recreational use with scenic, scientific, and historic values. The Arbuckle Mountains are the …

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34.43568, -97.00677
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About Arbuckle Lake

Lake of the Arbuckles is forned by Arbuckle Dam which is a feature of the Arbuckle Project. The lake is located at the confluence of the Buckhorn, Guy Sandy, and Rock Creeks. The area presents unusual opportunities, combining recreational use with scenic, scientific, and historic values. The Arbuckle Mountains are the highest part of a large area of Precambrian granites and overlying sedimentary strata that were uplifted and deformed some 300 million years ago. Subsequent erosion has exposed features which make the area an outstanding laboratory for students of geology.The Lake is one of the best fishing lakes in Oklahoma for catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, white bass, and bluegill. There are 36 miles of shoreline and 2,300 acres of open water. Fishing is permitted year round. The wildlife area is a habitat for turkey, deer, and small game birds. There are several boat ramps and camping facilities. The Arbuckle Project regulates flows of Rock Creek, a tributary of the Washita River in south-central Oklahoma.

Plan Your Visit to Arbuckle Lake

Heading to Arbuckle Lake? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Arbuckle Lake?

No central reservation system listed for Arbuckle Lake. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1130) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Arbuckle Lake?

From Sulphur, OK, drive 10 miles south on State Highway 177.

How do I contact Arbuckle Lake?

You can reach the park at phone: 580-622-3165.