Lake of the Arbuckles, body of water
The Lake of the Arbuckles is a reservoir in south-central Oklahoma, formed by a dam that holds back three creeks near the town of Sulphur. Along its shoreline you will find boat ramps, covered fishing piers, and campgrounds spread across several access points.
The lake was completed in 1967 after a drought in the 1950s had put serious pressure on the water supply of nearby towns. The Bureau of Reclamation led the project with the goal of providing reliable water and reducing flood risk 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 sits within the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, so many activities there follow National Park Service rules. It is a good idea to check fishing regulations before you go and to book a campsite in advance, especially during summer weekends.
Researchers from Oklahoma State University use this lake to study the Plains spotted skunk, a rare animal that is hard to find in most other parts of the region. This makes the lake an active research site, not just a place for outdoor recreation.
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