Grand Lake o' the Cherokees

Grand Lake o' the Cherokees is a human-made body of water in northeastern Oklahoma that touches several counties. The shoreline extends over a large area and offers many coves and docks for boats and leisure activities.

Work on the Pensacola Dam began in the late 1930s as part of a government employment program. After completion in 1940, the body of water formed and supplied the region with power from hydroelectricity.

The older name Lake of the Cherokees refers to the Cherokee Nation that once inhabited this region. Many place names around the water still reflect that heritage and recall the original inhabitants of what is now Oklahoma.

The shorelines are easily accessible through several ramps and parks spread across different counties. Summer months bring heavy activity and boat traffic, while the off-season offers quieter conditions.

The Pensacola Dam consists of 51 consecutive arches and extends over a considerable length. This construction makes it the longest multiple arch structure worldwide and a technical landmark.

Location: Oklahoma

Elevation above the sea: 227 m

GPS coordinates: 36.61190,-94.84150

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:25