Broken Bow Lake

Broken Bow Lake is a reservoir in southeastern Oklahoma, located on Mountain Fork River and 9 miles northeast of the town of Broken Bow in McCurtain County. It is one of the largest lakes within the state of Oklahoma, and a popular tourist destination for locals and visitors from neighboring Texas and Arkansas.
The lake stretches 22 miles back into the Ouachita Mountain country where its unusual beauty and scenic appeal beckons all sorts of nature enthusiasts. The mountain terrain is densely forested and there are many species of birds native to the area for birdwatchers to enjoy.
Broken Bow Lake was authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1958 and another Flood Control Act October 23, 1967. The project was designed and built under the supervision of the Tulsa District of the United States Army Corps of Engineers. The lake covers 14,000 acres and has a shoreline of 180 miles.
Construction began in October 1961, impoundment began in October 1968, and the conservation pool was filled in April 1970. The first power unit was put on line in January 1970, and the second unit in June 1970.
Hikers may enjoy two available nature trails; the Big Oak Nature Trail and the Beaver Lodge Nature Trail. The Big Oak trail is about a quarter of a mile long and is suitable for use by senior citizens and small children. The rugged and beautiful Beaver Lodge Nature Trail is a two-way trail located near the River Bend area south of the dam and winds along a clear stream through a valley surrounded by pine-covered hills.
Recreational facilities include boat launching ramps, camping, picnic sites, beaches, water and sanitary facilities. There are two Oklahoma state parks nearby Broken Bow Lake; Beavers Bend Resort Park and Hochatown State Park. Cedar Creek Golf Course at Beavers Bend is another attraction close to the lake.
The climate at Broken Bow Lake offers outdoor sportsmen excellent opportunities for year-round angling, with various species of trout and bass available.
Hunting on project lands are equally good for hunting enthusiasts, and with the exception of developed areas and certain Game Preserves, all project lands are open to the public for hunting. Deer are the most important big game species found in the area, though turkey and other sport can be found in this area.