Tenkiller Lake Area

Tenkiller Lake lies nestled among the lushly-wooded, gently-rolling Cookson Hills of Green Country Oklahoma. With 12,900 surface acres of clear water and 130 miles of shoreline, Tenkiller Lake is an outdoor recreation paradise offering boating, fishing, swimming, scuba diving, camping, hiking, hunting, wildlife watching and more. The lake hosts two state parks, Tenkiller State Park and Cherokee Landing State Park, as well as 14 campgrounds run by the Corps of Engineers. Campers will find hundreds of well-equipped campsites for both tents and RVs around the lake along with swim beaches, playgrounds, picnic areas and more. Tenkiller State Park and many privately-owned businesses offer rental cabins to make your stay comfortable. Fishermen prize Tenkiller for its bountiful fishing for white bass, sand bass, hybrid striper bass, crappie, catfish, bream and walleye, and anglers also enjoy catching trout in the Illinois River below the dam.

In addition to lake-centered fun, the Tenkiller Lake area is chockful of fun things to do, great places to stay and delicious dining options. The towns of Tahlequah, Gore and Vian offer many great attractions and activities. Catch a performance at the NSU Jazz Lab or take in a variety show by the River City Players. Take a float trip on the Illinois River by canoe, kayak or raft. Discover the history of the Cherokee Nation which is headquartered in Tahlequah with several museums and festivals that help guests learn more about the tribe. Experience gaming thrills at the Cherokee Casino late into the night and enjoy live entertainment in the on-site Ancient Oak Tavern. Savor a meal at The Branch, dig into a famous slice of pizza at Sam and Ella's Chicken Palace, or enjoy a wide selection of other restaurants in Tahlequah.

Head to nearby Gore, the Trout Capital of Oklahoma, and visit Marval Camping Resort on the banks of the Illinois River for some of the best trout fishing in the state. Embark on a scuba diving adventure or hit downtown for unique shopping and a tea room treat.  Or visit Vian to explore Tenkiller State Park, Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge and the Lake Trail System and then dine at Clearwater Cafe at Pine Cove Marina. Wherever you roam in the Lake Tenkiller area, you'll find outstanding outdoor recreation, entertainment, dining and lodging options.