Lake of the Arbuckles, body of water
The Lake of the Arbuckles is a reservoir in south-central Oklahoma near the town of Sulphur covering around 2,350 acres. It is formed by a dam that holds back three creeks and features campgrounds, boat ramps, and covered fishing piers throughout its shoreline.
The lake was completed in 1967 after a drought in the 1950s had strained the region's water supply. The Bureau of Reclamation led the project to ensure reliable water for nearby towns and to manage flooding during heavy rains.
The lake takes its name from the nearby Arbuckle Mountains that define the region. It serves as a gathering place for local families and anglers who come to spend leisure time together and connect with the water.
The lake is surrounded by three campgrounds offering tent and RV sites with picnic areas and restrooms. Visitors should follow fishing regulations and can find bait shops and local stores nearby for supplies and gear.
The lake is managed by the National Park Service and sits within the larger Chickasaw National Recreation Area where visitors can explore other parks and trails. Researchers from Oklahoma State University use the lake to study rare wildlife like the Plains spotted skunk.
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