2021 Lake Eufaula Travel Guide by lakeeufaulaassociation

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2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

•

EUFAULA, OK 74432

•

918.689.9191

•

CREEKNATIONCASINOEUFAULA.COM

contents Table of Contents ATV/Riding Trails...............................................31 Checotah....................................................10-11 Crowder............................................................29 Eufaula...............................................................8 Eufaula Wetlands/Disc Golf........................42-43 Fishing..............................................................28 Hunting............................................................32 Lake Communities............................................15 Lake Living.................................................44-45 Lodging................................................ 12-14, 19 Map............................................................24-25 Mural................................................................39 Museums..........................................................37 Porum Landing...........................................20-21 Sailing..............................................................22 Scenic Drive & Biker Trips..................................41 Standing Rock..................................................38 State Parks............................................. 33,35,36 Stigler.........................................................16-17 Trips......................................................... 6,12,14

Lake Eufaula Association 701 S. Main • P. O. Box 792

Eufaula, OK 74432 918.689.7751 • Fax 918.689.7793 lakeeufaulaassn@yahoo.com

VisitLakeEufaula.com Administrative Team Executive Director: Connie Morris Sales: Jessica Smith The 2021 Guide to Lake Eufaula is the official publication of the Lake Eufaula Association. Design: Dawnyal Hill, and Connie Morris Printing: EP graphics Editorial Contributors: Pennie Embry, Ed Rodebush, Dennis Eck and Mike Cathey Cover photo: Tephanie Neill Contributing Photographers: US Army Corps of Engineers Tulsa District, Lake Eufaula State Park, Dennis Eck, Deb Parry, Shi Ingalls, Debbie Barnett, Jacque Haskett, Rhonda Barnes, Amanda Nixon, Mike Cathey, Adam White, Carrie Vogt, Taylor Phillips and other Facebook friends.

Produced in cooperation with: Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department • 800.652.6552 • TravelOK.com 80,000 copies of this publication were produced at a cost of $.34 each.

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

Welcome

eautiful sunsets and sandy beaches are one of the first thing people notice at Lake Eufaula. Then the massive size of Oklahoma’s largest lake sets in. With 105,000 acres of water, there’s plenty of room for any type of water sports. Plus, there’s the sandy beaches for building sand sculptures, catching some rays or strolling along looking for treasures. Nature abounds in the 800 miles of shoreline. It’s a fisherman’s paradise with an abundant supply of crappie and bass. Anglers can cast a line for catfish too or just grab ‘em up noodling. Hunters can find a spot in the Corps of Engineer Public Hunting areas for deer, turkey, ducks and wild hogs. Two state parks and Corps of Engineer Campgrounds offer a variety of camping options, tent, yurts and RV’s. There are two Good Sam Parks and other private RV Parks in the area as well. Traditional hotels/motels and all types of rentals are available from small one-room to luxurious elevated cabins and more. Seven marinas around the lake offer food, beverages, fuel, boat slips and rentals. Several have ship stores with accessories for your lake fun. Pleasing your palate is easy with all the eateries. Deli’s at the convenience stores, numerous local flavor restaurants plus on the water or overlooking the water dining give visitors great venues for quality meals. Just a few miles from the lake is Oklahoma’s Little Italy, Krebs, OK. Feasting on great Italian food there is a must with a visit to Lake Eufaula. Sandy beaches and sunsets are here all year long! Plus they’re free! Visit for vacation, a weekend getaway or a day trip! You might just want to stay for a lifetime!

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

trips A day trip could be the best way to enjoy some of your favorite activities while getting to know your way around the “gentle giant.” If you love “Boating and other Water Sports,” you’ll be happy to find the shoreline dotted with marinas. At some of them you can rent pontoon boats, paddle boats, and jet skis. If you’re towing your own boat, there are plenty of public ramps available for launching your day of fun. Once you hit the water, make a winding trip to the dam, or pull up to play or picnic at one of Lake Eufaula’s many sandy beaches or hidden coves. Do you like to fly behind a boat, water-skiing, wakeboarding or tubing? At Lake Eufaula, there are plenty of wide-open spaces where you can zigzag across the water, either as a beginner or seasoned pro. Or if you are a nature lover, head south and pass under the 9A bridge to lazily float your way to

some stunning, rock cliffs that tower over the lake. Keep an eye out—and your camera ready—for herons, terns, pelicans, river otters and even prehistoric looking aquatic turtles. Are you an angler? Lake Eufaula is famous for its Fishing Opportunities. Crappie and catfish—as well as sand and black bass—reach record size here. You can drop your line in the water from a boat or from a fishing dock, or try casting from the rocks below the dam, where striped bass weighing more than 40 pounds have been caught.

Catfish are abundant as well. Cast a line to catch a big one or try your hand at noodling a big cat! If yours is a competitive spirit, there are fishing tournaments at Lake Eufaula most of the months of the year. A tournament day trip is a great way to show your stuff and see why Lake Eufaula is one of the top two sport fishing lakes in the state. If you’re looking for a day of Family Adventure on the shore, you’ll love the Lake Eufaula Dam site ATV Trail, with its 450 acres of Canadian River sand, dunes and wooded terrain. After a morning of off-roading, have a family cook-out at one of the lake’s many recreation areas featuring grills and picnic tables, playground equipment, swim beaches and more. Is your youth group looking for Educational Opportunities? Check out the Deep Fork Nature Center in Lake Eufaula State Park, where kids and adults can learn about native wildlife and plant species and participate in naturalist programs and activities. Round out the day with a hike along one of the lake’s many beautiful trails winding through the hills and along the shoreline. Need to escape with friends or family for a few days? A weekend trip away from the hectic pace of everyday life could be the ticket! When it’s time to kick up your heels and be pampered for a couple of days, Lake Eufaula is a popular destination for a Girls’ Getaway. Book your escape headquarters at a beachfront or lakeview rental—there are plenty of options available for hosting you and your gal pals. Day one: after a big country breakfast at a down home café, head over to any of the communities surrounding the lake. There you can shop for antiques, chic new outfits, art, one-of-a-kind gifts, products made in Oklahoma, and so much more. Take a break for an elegant lunch at a lovely tea room, or dive into a burger basket at an old-fashioned diner. Later, romp on the beach, rent a pontoon boat, jet skis or play a round of miniature golf. As the day winds down, treat yourselves to coffee and some Oklahoma sweets available at many of our local shops. Then it’s off for lakefront dining (complete with live music!), head to Krebs, Oklahoma’s Little Italy for a scrumptious Italian meal and maybe some dancing at one of the lake’s nightclubs or a dinner theatre or music show.

Continued on page 12 6

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

city of eufaula

2021 Calendar of Events Jan 1: First Day Hike: Lake Eufaula State Park: 11 am, 918-689-5311; Arrowhead State Park, 10 am. 918-339-2204 Feb 12: A Night to Shine, Tim Tebow Foundation Event, Community Culture Church, 918-707-5233, Virtual Prom March 13: Annual Burning of the Socks, #9 Marina 918-452-3261 May 29: Heritage Days at the Eufaula Indian Community Center, Under One Roof, 918-689-7505 June 12: Golden Eagle Poker Run, LEA 918-689-7751 June 19: 10 Mile Yard Sale, Hwy. 9E. 918-429-9436 July 3rd: 52nd Annual Fireworks Spectacular, EACC and City of Eufaula, 918-689-2791 and 918-689-2532 July 29-31: Eufaula Round Up Club Rodeo, 6:30 pm. Contact Cindy Choate 918-465-7712 July 30 & 31: 37th Annual Whole Hawg Days, EACC 918-689-2791 July 31: 20th Annual Whole Hawg Days Poker Run, EACC 918-6892791 Aug 7: Customer Appreciation Day at #9 Marina, 918-452-3261

Sept 4: Labor Day Weekend Fireworks at #9 Marina, 918-452-3261 Sept. 18: Eufaula Annual Mural Art event, 10 am – 4 pm Downtown Eufaula, Vision Eufaula and the EACC, 918-689-2791. Oct 30: Main Street Halloween Haunts Festival: EACC, 918-689-2791 Nov 13: Veteran’s Day Parade: City of Eufaula, 918-689-2532 Nov 25: Thanksgiving Day Dinner at VFW Post 8798, 918-689-5577 Nov 27: Small Business Saturday, EACC 918-689-2791 Nov 27: 4th Annual Lighted Boat Parade, EACC, 918-689-2791 Nov 30: Local Flavor: Food Tasting Fundraiser for Under One Roof, 918689-7505 Dec 4: Annual Heartland Bazaar in the Eufaula Armory, 918-617-3562 Dec 4: Lighted Christmas Parade, City of Eufaula, 918-689-2532; 5:30 pm with Lighting of the official City Tree in Posey Park Dec 25: Christmas Dinner at the VFW Post 8798, 918-689-5577 All dates and times are subject to change, please contact the Chamber offices for updates at 918-689-2791 or visit www.eufaulachamberofcommerce.com

Eufaula is home to:

(918) 689-2532

• A 2007 Oklahoma Centennial Clock • “The Indian Journal” Oklahoma’s oldest continually published weekly newspaper • Oklahoma’s first Masonic Lodge, est. 1855 • Oklahoma’s largest manmade lake • Located within the Muscogee (Creek) Nation boundaries • Eufaula Municipal Airport (F08) (Runway 17x35:3,000 x 60, CTAF 122.9, 635’ ASL, lighting SS-SR) • Numerous City Parks

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

Start day two with an early morning walk or jog on the walking trail that hugs a long stretch of the lake in Eufaula Cove. Book mani-pedis, facials and massages for all the girls, then it’s another day of beach fun and shopping, or set out on an adventure of your own design. Weekend Golf Getaways are popular with many of our visitors of all ages, from the youngest golf enthusiast to retirees who have played courses around the country. Lake Eufaula is home to two 18-hole golf courses. Arrowhead State Park’s Golf Course has recently had major updates with a new Pro Shop that opened in the fall of 2017. Also, at Arrowhead there is a new cart barn, new sand traps, Champion Bermuda Greens and a new irrigation system. The other course is Fountainhead Creek Golf Course located in Lake Eufaula State Park and operated by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. This course recently underwent extensive upgrading. Lodging and dining choices are conveniently located near both courses. Looking to stay more than a few days? If it’s time for a Family Vacation, look no farther than Lake Eufaula, and use our guide to help plan that dream trip you’ve all been waiting for. In these pages, you’ll find information on lake cabins or houses roomy enough to accommodate even the largest families. Or you can book a site at one of the lake’s numerous campgrounds or RV parks. At Lake Eufaula, you can pitch your own tents, stay in rustic state and Corps RV areas, or go all out with private RV parks and resort areas that offer swimming pools, tennis courts, basketball courts, shaded picnic pavilions, playground equipment, paddle boats, water toys and swim beaches. Some even have wi-fi, cable TV and banquet facilities.

Continued on page 14

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

If you’re like many families in the in the country, you travel with four-legged friends, so you’ll be happy to know that most of our campgrounds and RV parks allow pets. And for those of you whose “four-legged friends” are horses, not only are there equestrian trails at both Arrowhead and Lake Eufaula State Parks, our guide can help you find lodging that accommodates your horses. Once you’ve settled on a place to stay, you can fill your vacation calendar with all the activities listed in our “day trips,” and then end each day with dinner at a local café or your own waterfront cookout. Whatever you wish for in a lake getaway—fishing, swimming, boating, skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, shopping, dining, hiking, camping, offroading, riding, exploring, relaxing, golfing—for a day, a weekend, or even longer, Lake Eufaula is the perfect place to turn those wishes into wonderful memories. 14

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

Discover the Lake Communities Checotah

Boutiques, Tasty Eats, & Uniques McAlester

Eufaula

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

Lake Eufaula

Robert S. Kerr Lake

THE LAND BETWEEN TWO LAKES

Since 1904

Antiques & Boutiques Access to Gaming Access to Hunting & Fishing Access to Technical Training Access to the Port of Keota Access to Top Regional Airport Brier Creek - 9 Hole Golf Course Haskell County Museum Historic Time Theater Lake Eufaula, Kerr Lake Lake John Wells New Stigler Sports Complex Quality Restaurants Roye Park with Splash Pad and Disc Golf Stigler Haskell County Public Library Taloka Valley Cultural Heritage Center Twin Lakes Inn with RV Hook -Ups

Kiamichi Technology Centers

918-967-4665

918-967-2801

918-967-9211

918-967-1001

918-967-0100

918-967- 0700

918-202-8080

918-967-8010

918-471-5001

918-967-2166

Sparkle and Rust www.dunnfordcompany.com

918-967-3384

A �ntage Market

115 East Main, Stigler | 918-967-7061

A Community of “Families “Families”

Keota-Old Timers Days first Saturday in May Kinta- 4th of July Celebration-TBA McCurtain – 4th of July Celebration Community Easter Egg Hunt-March 27, 2021 Roye Park 10 am Cruise Night- May 29, 2021- Downtown Stigler Stigler Reunion Days- June 18 and 19, 2021 –Haskell County Courthouse Lawn Stigler Round-Up Club Rodeo tenative August 6 and 7, 2021 Highway 9 Rod and Custom Fest-October 23, 2021 Merchant’s Trick or Treat tentative October 28, 2020 Shop Small Saturday November 27, 2021 Shop Stigler Campaign November15 thru Dec. 17, 2021 Tinsel Tuesdays, December 7 Stigler Christmas Parade December 4, 2020 Shop Stigler Cash Drawing –December 18, 2021- 12 noon Courthouse Lawn

www.billcox.com 200 NE 2ND ST, STIGLER

918-967-2444

www.coxins-agency.com

918-967-2225

1-800-328-2368

918-967-3394

Bill Cariker

1509 E. Main • P.O. Box 725 Stigler, OK 74462

918-967-1025 OKIE DRILLING COMPANY, INC.

Stigler Home Center, Inc. (918) 967-3187

918-967-1002

918-967-3368

918 967-8768

918 967-5094

918-967-9971

CAS INO & T RAVE L P L A Z A

STIGLER,OK

w w w. stiglerok . net

HASKERLICLALCSOOCUIENTY TY AND MUSEUM HISTO

918 967-2161

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

From camping to hotels, RV parking to treehouses, Lake Eufaula offers something for everyone who wants to stay for a night or stay longer.

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

lodging

Porum

Lake Eufaula’s Best Kept Secret!

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

Porum Landing

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

sailing into 2021

020….What a year in Eufaula! There were many life changing events last year that transcended even what the saltiest sailor would have ever imagined happening. Most Regattas and other sailing events that sailors look forward to in Eufaula and the rest of the country were cancelled last year. Our lives were different in so many ways due to circumstances beyond our control. But one thing that sailors can always count on is the night sky. They have been navigating by the same points of lights in the darkness for centuries. Very little ever changes in the night sky. The changes that do happen take place over time, so seasoned celestial navigators can still know where they are and where they are going by looking at the heavens above. It is not only a very good thing to be able to navigate by the stars….but also makes for some very interesting conversation among your shipmates on a nighttime sail. The pinholes of light in the darkness above have inspired many stories from people through the ages, imagining shapes above that come complete with all sorts of legends and fairytales. A favorite is a tale about the constellation Cassiopeia. Some have described the large “W” in the sky as being queen Cassiopeia’s crown that was thrown into the sky by Zeus, after the queen angered him. Other’s see the queen herself in this group of stars banished to the heavens to perpetually rotate around Polaris…the North Star. Cassiopeia is a very visible “W” in the sky that is always visible and easy to find. It is an important constellation to know because it will always tell you where the North Star is. Knowing which direction is north is the most important key to navigating at night and it is very easy to determine. Since the North Star is not very bright, it is helpful to know that if you bisect the largest V in Cassiopeia’s crown with an imaginary line, it will point directly at the North Star. The 2 outermost stars in the Big Dipper’s bowl will also point in the direction of the North Star. Usually the brightest stars in the sky are actually planets. They are not very helpful in navigating because their positions differ throughout the year. Mars, Venus,

Jupiter and Saturn are the most visible and can be seen at different times of night, depending on the time of year. Venus is the most brilliant by far. She outshines everything in the sky…second only to the Moon… and occasionally they rise and set together, which is always a breathtaking sight! Venus was a morning star towards the end of last year, only visible right before sunrise. She will not be visible for the first few months of 2021, but will become an evening star visible in about May of this coming year. During this time she will only be visible for a short time after sunset, before she disappears under the western horizon. She is an elusive creature, but well worth the wait when you finally get to see her shine! Named Aphrodite in Greek mythology, she is the goddess of love and beauty, and it is easy to see why she was worshipped by ancient seafarers who considered her to be goddess of the sea as well. The heavens at night have been an important part of many a sailors life. After all…they are a beautiful thing to behold when you are at sea…surrounded by obscurity. They breathe life into an otherwise dark sky. The stars are there…always...regardless of where you are, rich or poor…they shine down on all of us the same. After a year like 2020 you can’t always be sure of the reliability of your onboard GPS or the phone that we have all become so heavily dependent on. It is easy to get disoriented at night on the water. So whether it be for navigation purposes when you are sailing on lake Eufaula at night, or simply wanting to know more about the breathless moments that a nighttime sail gives you, it’s a great plan to get familiar with the stars above you.

Dennis Eck

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

Brown Lake

er Riv

172

Lake level at Full-flood Pool Uncleared Area

Primary Road (paved) Secondary Road Kiowa

Pittsburg

Distance to Dam (miles)

Lake level at Power Pool

State Highway

(may or may not be paved)

County Boundary

U.S. Highway

Alderson

Krebs

Juniper Point 156

155

OKLAHOMA

207

Holiday 209 208 150 Cove

210 211

199

204

Lake Eufaula 203 State Park 205 206

Council Hill

18 19

Lake Eufaula State Park Marina

13 12 14 16 15 17 22

150

OKLAHOMA

Onapa

Wainwright

31 33 34

MU S KOG E E

Checotah

Texanna

69 72

Porum Landing 67

to Ft. Smith

OKLAHOMA

150

Warner

M U S KOG E E M cI NTOS H

Duchess Creek Marina

Rentiesville

Oktaha

Bache

Marina

Airport

Hartshorne

Haileyville

153

152 25

Blocker

Hickory Point

(at normal lake levels)

Bridge Clearance

Navigational Light

Public Boat Ramp

Park

Elm Point

151

148

159 160

150

State Park 26

Highway 31 Landing

One Mile

154

149

158

Crowder

161 Arrowhead

Area 51 Marina

162

Falcon Tree ..................... 128 Alta Vista 1,2,3 ............... 125 Falcon View .................... 129 Alta Vista 4 ..................... 140 Fame Creek Area ............ 199 Arrowhead Estates.......... 163 First Nat’l Bank Addn ...... 119 Arrowhead Shores .......... 161 Foreman’s Cove ................ 10 Atlee Cove ...................... 212 Fountainblue Peninsula ..... 33 Avalon Estates ................ 195 Fountainhead Oaks ......... 205 Bar Harbor ........................ 43 French’s Addn ................. 122 Beacon Point .................... 85 Gaines Creek Hideaway .. 130 Beaver Creek Addn ........... 60 Garland & McKee Sub ....... 51 Beaver Lodge ................... 50 Gentry Creek Acres ............. 3 Beaver Lodge East ............ 50 Gentry Creek Cove .............. 2 Belle Starr Forest .............. 29 Grandview ........................ 16 Belle Starr Park................. 28 Greenbriar Addn................ 36 Belle Starr Ranch .............. 27 Featherston Happy Hollow ................. 203 Bent Oak......................... 133 Hickory Hills...................... 44 Bermuda Point ................ 139 Hickory Hills (Crowder) ... 158 Big Bass Park ................... 66 Hidden Ridge .................. 110 Bixby Creek ...................... 76 HideAWay Cove................. 62 Blue Kenokee Bay ............. 57 Hidden Paradise................ 49 Blue Water Oaks ............... 79 Holiday Hills .................... 168 Bluffview ........................ 208 Holiday Village .................. 69 Boulder Ridge ................... 64 Huckleberry Hills............... 48 Breckenridge .................. 179 Hurley Subdivision .......... 136 Bridgeport Beach .............. 19 Indian Springs................... 20 Bristow Point .................. 160 Island View ....................... 74 Brooken Cove ................... 93 James Addition ............... 201 Brooken Hills .................. 100 Janes Jungle .................... 39 Brooks Development ......... 96 Juniper Point .................. 156 Brown’s Catfish Haven .... 153 Kelso Development ......... 118 Brush Hill ........................ 204 La Duna ............................ 41 Bucks of Gaines Creek .... 154 Ladybird Landing .............. 89 Buds Point ...................... 159 Lake Breeze Sub............... 95 Buffalo Ridge .................. 183 Lake Eufaula Estates....... 162 Bugtussle Village ............ 155 Lake Forest Development . 56 Bunny Creek ................... 191 Lakeview Country Estate... 82 Cameron Cove .................. 54 Lakewood Forest ............ 127 Canadian Shores............. 172 Lakewood Park ................. 23 Cardinal Point ................. 157 Leisure Heights ................. 21 Carlton Landing .............. 132 Leisure Land ..................... 15 Carr Creek ........................ 32 Lincoln Lake Estates ....... 209 Cathey Mountain East ....... 24 Little Oklahoma .............. 197 Cedar Bluff ....................... 31 Lodgeview Point ............. 147 Cedar Ridge .................... 101 Longtown Acres .............. 141 Cedar Pointe Estates ....... 126 Longtown Estates ........... 121 Circle V Ranch ................ 134 Longtown Landing .......... 135 Cliff Heights .................... 105 Longview Acres .............. 145 Coon Creek Acres ........... 193 Lottawatah Village .............. 9 Coon Creek Trailer Park... 196 Ma-Lu Cove ...................... 83 Cove Acres........................ 92 Malthuldy Estates ........... 152 Crescent Hills .............. 37,38 Mason Oaks.................... 102 Dam ................................. 88 Massey Point .................. 148 Dam Site North ................. 87 McKee Cove...................... 53 Dam Site Rec Area N......... 86 McKinney Cove/Lakeview . 97 Deep Fork River Ranch ..... 14 Meadow Lakes Estates ..... 77 Dixie Point ...................... 120 Meadowwood Addition ...... 25 Dogwood Acres................. 46 Mill Creek Bay Estates .... 175 Dover Estates ................... 45 Morrison Acres ............... 169 Duchess Creek Acres ........ 67 Nobb Hill ........................... 72 Duchess Creek Estates ..... 73 Oak Ridge Cove ................ 61 Duvall Lake Estates ............ 1 Oakridge Club ................. 116 Eagle Bluff 1,2,3,4 .......... 178 Oaktree Landing ............... 81 East Gate Mobile Home Park .... 68 Oakwood Harbor ................. 6 Edgewater ...................... 69A Elm Point Estates ............ 150 Ogden Cove ..................... 59 Emerald Bay ....................... 5 Old Channel Point ........... 138 Enchanted Oaks 1,2,3...... 7,8 Paradise Point ..................... 4 Eufaula Cove North ......... 188 Peaceful Acres .................. 55 Eufaula Cove South ......... 186 Piney Acres ..................... 115 Evergreen Addition ............ 90 Piney Cove...................... 114 Falcon Cove .................... 131 Piney Creek .................... 109 Falcon Ridge ................... 149 Pipeline Cove .................... 47

Pittman Acres ................. 192 Pollard Development ....... 173 Porum Landing ................. 70 Quinton Porum Mountain Estate ..... 75 Push Hill ........................... 35 Quail Ridge Acres............ 198 Rainbow’s Bend .............. 194 Redland Acres................... 78 River Oaks ...................... 184 Riverview Terrace ........... 106 Roberts Ridge ................. 103 Rock Bluff Acres ............. 200 Rock Creek ..................... 164 Rock Creek Cove Estates 165 Rock Creek Heights ........ 166 Rock Creek Lots ............. 206 Rock Point ........................ 12 Rolling Oaks ..................... 18 Runaway Bay .................... 26 Saltsman Orchard ........... 189 Sabrina Beach .................. 91 Safari’s End .................... 202 Sam’s Point..................... 171 Sandpiper Cove ................ 58 Sandy Bass Bays 1-4 ........ 40 Scandia Cove .................... 63 Scoodiac Point ................ 211 Sea Blue Shores ............... 84 Sequoyah Acres ................ 98 Shabby Acres.................. 201 Sheppard Estates............ 207 Sherwood Forest............. 182 Shorehomes at the Cove . 187 Shoreline Drive Sub .......... 99 Snug Harbor ................... 113 Sooner Haven ................. 123 South Cove ....................... 94 Wilburton South Lake Estates ......... 170 Southport Cove ............... 190 Southview Meadows ......... 34 Spinnaker Point .............. 112 Sportsman’s Club............ 117 Spring Creek Development 22 Standing Rock Lodge ...... 108 Stephenson’s Lakeview #1.. 143 Stephenson’s Lakeview #2.. 144 Stone Cliff ....................... 181 Stone Ridge Estates ........ 180 Styles Subdivision ........... 142 Sunset Heights ................. 11 Sunset Ridge .................... 52 Sycamore Bay Cove ........ 210 Tall Oaks......................... 104 Tanglewood Bluff .............. 65 Terra Rouge Sub ............. 176 Terra Starr Estates ............ 30 Three Nations/Cherokee to Talihina Hill . 107 Timber Cove ................... 185 Timberline Beach ............ 111 Treasure Cove ................... 80 Twin Mtn Cove Estates .... 177 Twin Rivers (Rio Honda) .... 17 Urquhart Cove................... 42 Warren Addn ................... 146 Westport Beach .............. 174 Wildwoods ...................... 151 Williams Addition ............ 124 Willow Ridge Estates ........ 71 Windsor Shore Estates .... 167 Womack Sunset ................ 13

Eufaula Lake Subdivisions

27 30 21 28 26 25

68 69A 65 66 76 77 64 63 70 71 74 73 79 78 24 75 80 62 Belle Starr Marina 49 81 82 61 Belle Starr 196 20 50 48 83 36 58 59 60 53 51 35 46 198 Park 29 84 85 Dam Site 195 45 47 52 54 55 57 42 44 197 56 2 194 39 37 86 North 4 41 14 193 87 38 8 88 89 Brooken Cove 90 Lady 189 Bird 102 99 101 192 43 108 106 105 188 187 Landing 92 191 104 98 91 100 103 Eufaula 190 Eufaula Cove Marina10 107 Ever green Marina 97 184 109 110 182 181 185 183 95 180 111 96 93 No. 9 Marina 186 141 112 177 94 145 114Highway 9 178 179 25 144 113 136 137 24 138 Landing 142 146 143 135 176 16 117 Eufaula Lake 133 125 140 139 121 Enterprise 118 124 122 115 127 134 116 119 126 25 123 131 22 120 Longtown 129 128 170 169 132 130 Carlton Landing 18 167 168 Gaines 166 Creek ©2017 Lake Eufaula Association Map by Map Ink (405) 831-3858 Canadian 165 163 164 147

212

to Tulsa Eufaula Lake

157

Railroad

Cardinal Point

Crowder Point

171

174

175

Vivian

Mellette

173

202

Stidham

200

201

Gentry Creek Cove

Interstate Highway

McAlester

Indianola

Lenna

Eufaula Lake

Hitchita

M cI NTOS H

G SBUR

LEGEND

to Ada

EXIT 82

Lake McAlester

Indianola

PITT

Hanna

ian

H N TO S

Ca n

McI

North

Hoffman

Morris

to Oklahoma City

to Seminole

Lake Henryetta

Henryetta

Grayson

OKM U LGEE

PI T TS BUR G HA S KE LL

kmulgee

IT TSBURG

an Ca na

di ve r

e ko g t o Mu s

PI T TS BU R G L ATI M E R

Indian Nation Turnpike n atio N e ian Ind rnpik u T n atio N ian e Ind rnpik Tu

Camping and Day Use Fees: Use Pay.gov Eufaula Class C Camping

Eufaula Day Use

Eufaula Lake R1S

In 2020, Lake Eufaula became the first USACE project to use Pay.gov, a service provided by the U.S. Treasury Dept. to collect cashless payments for day use fees at all parks and camping fees at Class C parks. Class C parks are first come, first serve with no gate attendant. On Lake Eufaula, these parks are Dam Site East, Elm Point, Oak Ridge and Mill Creek. The new Pay.gov program now allows the public to make an electronic payment for day use at all parks and for camping at Class C Parks. The user simply either scans a QR code at the boat ramp, swim beach or campsite, picks the location from a dropdown menu and chooses the electronic payment type. Pay.gov accepts Amazon Pay, PayPal, electronic check and debit and credit cards and emails the receipt. Once the transaction is complete, a ranger is then able to see who has paid instantly. The process for using Pay.gov is as follows: Open the camera on your smart phone to Scan QR Code on either a fee sign or site marker for camp sites and click on the link in the camera window. Fill out the form with required information including location, site number if paying for camping and submit. Fill out payment information form and submit. Provide an email for the receipt and submit.

Reserve your spot... Corps Campgrounds

Property owners: Make the call

If you own property adjacent to the shoreline or are considering purchasing such property, a visit or phone call to the Eufaula Project Office will be time well spent. Adjacent, or would be adjacent landowners may apply for mowing permits, allowing them to mow a portion of government property. Some may be interested in applying for a boat dock permit, to place a private dock behind private property. To apply for either, applicants must submit two completed copies of the Shoreline Use Permit application, proof of ownership of adjacent property, and a check to cover permit and administration fees. Applicants interested in a boat dock must also submit complete materials lists and boat dock plans. Upon receipt of a request, a ranger then makes a site visit, reviews submitted plans, and determines what, if any, permit may be issued. There are multiple factors that a ranger must consider with Shoreline Use Applications. First, how is the shoreline zoned in the area? It may be zoned limited development, public recreation area, prohibited access area, protected shoreline area, or protected shoreline area (for fish and wildlife). The zoning of an area dictates what activities may or may not take place in that area. Next, what is the extent of vegetation or tree cover in the area? Are there previous restrictions on the property? Does request cross an archaeological site. Does the cove allow for additional docks, bearing in mind the strict spacing requirements? A ranger must consider each factor in his/ her determination of a submitted application. Besides information on Shoreline Use Permits, a landowner should be aware of flowage easement and encroachment. Flowage easement is land on Eufaula Lake where the Corps of Engineers’ real estate interest is limited to easement title only. However, on all waters of the reservoir, regardless of ownership of the underlying land, the Corps of Engineers just assure the public’s safety and navigational integrity. Habitable structures are prohibited on flowage easement lands, and written consent from the Corps of Engineers must be obtained before placement of any other structures directly on flowage easement lands. An encroachment is unauthorized personal property or structures located on government managed public property. These are just a few issues of concern regarding adjacent property on Eufaula Lake that a landowner should be aware of. The Eufaula Lake U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Project Office personnel are available to assist customers in person or by phone, at (918) 799-5843.

Water Safety Tips The US Army Corps of Engineers wants you to come out and enjoy Lake Eufaula this summer. They also want you to be safe while at the lake so you can return again year after year. Lake Eufaula is a great place to spend the day fishing, swimming or boating and can be fun for family and friends and the cornerstone of any outdoor vacation.  However, water can also be dangerous and present various hazards, especially for children.  Before you head out to the Lake please read up on some of my favorite water safety tips. • Protect yourself by avoiding water that is discolored, or where foam or scum is present.   • Swim in designated swimming areas only.  While not every location can have a lifeguard present, make sure to swim in established swimming areas, far away from hidden dangers. • Practice the buddy system when swimming.  Swimming with a partner will ensure that if an emergency does happen, someone is available to assist you or go for help. • Know your limits.  Swimming in lakes

and rivers can be vastly different than swimming in your backyard pool, so don’t push yourself beyond your natural swimming capability.  • If you’re not a strong swimmer or just learning how to swim, don’t swim in water that is too deep.  Always swim in an area where your feet can touch the lake bottom.  Stay safe and don’t try to keep up with more skilled swimmers. • Be prepared for emergencies.  It’s always a good idea to have someone along that is trained in life-saving skills, such as CPR.  Taking a free class at local organizations such as YMCA or YWCA can help save a life someday. • ALWAYS watch children when they are in or near the water.  Do not get distracted by phone calls, text messages or talking to others. • When children are swimming in outdoor bodies of water, a life jacket is always recommended. • Avoid swallowing water while swimming. • Avoid swimming in polluted or algae-

affected water.  Check for visible signs and avoid surfaces that are questionable. • Wear ear plugs and swim goggles when appropriate. • Shower before and after swimming, and make sure to wash any cuts and scrapes with clean water and soap. • Check the local weather conditions and forecast before swimming or boating.  Strong winds and thunderstorms can be dangerous. • Look before you leap.  Diving injuries can be severe, so check the water’s depth before you dive in and identify any hidden rocks or other hazards, even if you plan on leaping in feet-first. • If you are boating, everyone should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.  In Oklahoma, all vessels must carry one wearable floatation device for each person onboard and all children under 13 years of age must wear their life jacket at all times.  Make sure that the life jacket is appropriate for the child’s size and weight. • Be aware that alcohol and boating do not mix.  While out on the water, you must be able to think quickly, since water and weather conditions can be unpredictable.  Also note that one third of boating deaths are alcohol-related. • Respect all water and beach closures.

...Under the Stars

Park Class #of Sites Dates Open w/Service Dates Open Belle Starr South A 118 Apr. 1-Oct. 31 Apr.1-Oct. 31 Brooken Cove A 62 Apr. 1-Oct. 31 Apr.1-Oct. 31 Damsite East C 10 Apr.1-Oct. 31* Jan.1-Dec. 31 Ladybird Landing A 57 Apr. 1-Oct. 31* Jan. 1-Dec. 31 Elm Point C 17 Apr. 1-Oct. 31* Jan. 1-Dec. 31 Gentry Creek A 40 Apr. 1-Oct. 31* Jan. 1-Dec. 31 Hwy. 9 East C 9 Apr. 1-Oct. 31* Jan. 1-Dec. 31 Hwy. 9 North A 40 Apr. 1-Oct. 31* Jan. 1-Dec. 31 Hwy. 9 South A 33 Apr. 1-Oct. 31* Apr. 1-Oct. 31 Mill Creek C 12 Apr. 1-Oct. 31* Jan. 1-Dec. 31 Oakridge C 12 Apr. 1-Oct. 31* Jan. 1-Dec. 31 Porum Landing A 53 Apr. 1-Oct. 31* Jan. 1-Dec. 31 *Limited services may be available during March and November. Call Lake Office for Information at `(918) 484-5135. Primitive areas and access points open year-round. For information or reservations call toll-free 1-877-444-6777 or visit website Recreation.gov. 26

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

fishing

t’s no secret that Lake Eufaula is the largest lake in Oklahoma so it just makes sense that some of the best fishing in Oklahoma is right here on Lake Eufaula. The four most sought after fish are black bass, crappie, catfish, and white bass. Added into this fishing equation are striped bass below the dam and gar and other rough fish for the bow fisherman. The term black bass includes largemouth, spotted, and smallmouth bass. All of which are plentiful all over Lake Eufaula. Because of its size, Lake Eufaula will usually have three types of water clarity ranging from murky to clear. This variety of water conditions will fit any type of fishing conditions. Largemouth and smallmouth bass have a 14” limit which helps to insure a quality fishery. At this time, spotted bass are under a no size or number limit due to their high numbers in population. The next most popular fish on this lake is the crappie. Lake Eufaula is known as one of the top ten Crappie Fishing Lakes in the nation. At this time there is no length limit and the number you may keep is 37 per person per day. Crappie is caught year round and is present in all areas of the lake. Some of the more popular crappie areas are near bridges, rip-rap shoreline, brush piles and standing timber. The Department of Wildlife has placed a new type of habitat called spider blocks. Look for pieces of plastic pipe sticking out of the shallow water areas and give them a try. There is a very strong argument that Lake Eufaula is the best crappie lake in

Oklahoma. Catfish are also very popular in Lake Eufaula and are basically equally scattered around the lake and traditionally they prefer the deeper creek channels and rocky areas. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish are caught on a wide variety of baits and can also be caught year round. Some of the largest catfish are caught in the dead of winter. Rod and reel, jug line, and trotline are all used to put catfish on your stringer. For the not so faint of heart you might try your hand at noodling, a type of fishing for flathead catfish. Most noodling is done in May thru July. If you don’t mind sticking your hand in a dark hole under water and having a flathead chomp down, then this is the fishing for you; just hold on. White bass are probably the fish with

the highest numbers and visibility on Lake Eufaula. There is currently no size of limit to the number of white bass you may keep. The white bass is Oklahoma’s state fish and the current state record was caught on Lake Eufaula in 1984. When water is being released below Eufaula dam, striped bass fishing is popular. Several of the state record striped bass have come from this area. Due to miles and miles of shallow flats, bow fishing for rough fish is a popular way to stalk and arrow a gar, carp, or buffalo. Up to date fishing regulation guides are available at fishing license dealers and should be consulted for the latest rules and regulations or by visiting www.wildlifedepartment.com.

Ed Rodebush, McIntosh Co. Game Warden (Ret.)

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

Lake Eufaula Dam ATV Trail

ATV/riding trails

Located on SH 71 at Lake Eufaula Dam is a 450 acre ATV riding area. The entrance to the Canadian River Valley is on the South side of the dam and includes sand, rolling dunes and wooded areas. There is no fee to ride and the area is open year around. Rules and regulations are posted at the parking area. For more information contact the Corps of Engineers office at 918-484-5135. Bring your ATV and ride.

www.vicarspowersports.com

Sales Parts Service

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

hunting

ufaula Lake lays claim to some of the finest hunting opportunities in southeast Oklahoma. Much of the Public Hunting Land on Eufaula is managed by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. The rest is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Together these agencies manage approximately 31,000 acres of Public Hunting Land on Eufaula Lake. Most of this land is zoned as Protected Shoreline (Fish & wildlife). Public hunting lands on Eufaula Lake are open to each and every citizen of the United States who meet the license

the area you hunt is actually open for hunting. Get a Eufaula Hunting map and get familiar with the area before you plan to hunt.

requirements. All Oklahoma state Hunting regulations apply on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers hunting land and are enforced by Oklahoma State Game Wardens. Most hunting seasons are the same as for the rest of the State but there are some exceptions. It is your responsibility to be familiar with the hunting regulations and to make sure

Here are a few hunter safety tips to take to the woods with you. Know the correct way to carry your gun. Treat every gun as if it were loaded. Always point the gun muzzle in a safe direction. Be sure of your target. Keep the safety on or the chamber unloaded until ready to fire. Never lay a loaded gun on the bottom of a boat. Never shoot on or over the water. Remember, we share the hunting lands on the “Gentle Giant” with the entire population of the Nation. Don’t litter, be courteous, practice hunting safety, and enjoy our great outdoors.

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

rrowhead State Park, located near Canadian in southeastern Oklahoma, features 2,200 acres with amenities that will appeal to all visitors. Arrowhead State Park is an ideal setting for a relaxed, low-key trip or an activity-filled adventure. Visitors can explore 25 miles of trails on horseback, and Arrowhead Stables, located on-site, offers riding stables and horses for rental. Boarding, riding lessons and trail rides are available. Hiking and biking trails are scattered throughout Arrowhead State Park. The extensive trails in the park are great ways to explore the Oklahoma scenery and take in the natural world, whether on horseback, on foot or on a mountain bike. On the trails, visitors may get a close-up view of some of the animals that live in the park, such as deer, wild turkeys and rabbits. Lake Eufaula, the largest man-made lake in Oklahoma, borders most of Arrowhead State Park and is accessible by boat from a ramp located near the marina. Water sports of all kinds are enjoyed on the lake, from water skiing to wakeboarding. Fishing is a popular

arrowhead state park

activity at Lake Eufaula, and the catch of the day may include catfish, crappie and sand bass, among many other types of fish. There is also a swimming area perfect for cooling off from a hot day in the sun. The 18-hole golf course in Arrowhead State Park gives visitors a chance to hit the links while experiencing the beauty of the park. Featuring a new pro shop, a new cart barn, new sand traps and irrigation system as well as a driving range and putting green, this full-service 72-par course will provide visitors with an enjoyable day outdoors. From two holes on the course, visitors have great views of Lake Eufaula. Cart and club rentals are available. Arrowhead State Park offers 91 tent

sites and 91 RV sites, 20 of which have full hookups available. Some RV sites in the Turkey Flats campground may be reserved online at www.Gocampok. com. A dump station is also located onsite. There are many conveniently located comfort stations in the park, and the park also offers picnic pavilions and a playground. A group camp is available to visitors, and features a kitchen and bunkhouses. Perfect for family reunions or large get-togethers, the group camp can accommodate up to 144 people. Arrowhead State Park also features an airstrip for the convenience of those who would like to fly into the park.

Golf Course 918-339-2769 Park Office 918-339-2204

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

ake Eufaula State Park is a great choice for an Oklahoma getaway. Whether the stay is short or long-term, a visit to this state park is guaranteed to be memorable. The park is located just south of I-40 near Checotah, in southeastern Oklahoma. Situated on Lake Eufaula, a 105,000 acre reservoir, there are many activities available for visitors on both land and water. On land, Oklahoma’s diverse foliage and wildlife can be observed on hiking trails such as the Bluebird Trail. Visitors can bring bikes to get around the expansive park and take a ride on one of the mountain bike trails. The Deep Fork Nature Center educates visitors about native animals and plant species, and kids and adults can participate in naturalist programs and activities. For kids, the park offers many playgrounds and a fishing pond. A 9-hole disc golf course is located at Hummingbird Beach, and there is no fee required to play the disc golf course. Stop by the gift shop in the park office to rent disc golf equipment for a nominal fee. Nearby, the 18-hole Fountainhead Creek Golf Course, operated by the Muscogee Creek Nation, features views of the lake, complete with a putting green and pro shop. Lake Eufaula State Park also has a Lovelock Fountain, which encourages visitors to add a personal, and lasting, touch to the park. While there are so many things to do on

lake eufaula state park

land in the park, Lake Eufaula allows visitors the opportunity to play on the water. There is a swimming area with a beach, and multiple boat ramps provide easy access to the lake. Fishing is a big attraction at Lake Eufaula State Park, and a marina located in the park makes year-round fishing possible with an enclosed, heated fishing dock, as

well as a tackle shop. Some of the largest fish in the state have been caught at Lake Eufaula. Various accommodations for a stay at Lake Eufaula State Park are available. Approximately 34 full hookup RV sites, 65 RV sites with water and electric and 93 tent sites are available. For a unique overnight accommodation, book a stay in a yurt, which offers a foldout futon with bedding, microwave, mini fridge, electrical outlets, a large picnic shelter and lake access at your doorstep. Pets are not allowed inside the yurt. Comfort stations are scattered throughout the park. Ideal for meetings or family reunions, the group camp features a fully equipped kitchen, dining hall, stocked pond and four air conditioned bunkhouses that can accommodate up to 96 people. Lake Eufaula State Park also features an airstrip for the convenience of those who would like to fly into the park.

Park Office • (918) 689-5311 Deep Fork Nature Center (918) 689-4607 LESP@ecewb.com 2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

Lake Eufaula

Always above par. ( 35.403° N

95.608° W )

How do I sum up our family reunion? Going back to Lake Eufaula was a gift. I’ll always cherish those picnics that stretched long beyond dusk. And swapping stories about all those shenanigans we pulled (and survived ! )when we were kids. The little ones soaked up the sunshine, trying their luck with the bow and arrow and fishing. And those carefree afternoons on the greens? It was so rejuvenating to unplug and unwind like that. These are the stories worth telling. These are the memories worth capturing … and I can’t imagine a better backdrop than Lake Eufaula.

It's Camping Season. Find your new favorite RV or tent site at an Oklahoma state park.

Visit TravelOK.com/Parks.

Arrowhead Golf Course L ak e E u faul a S t a t e Par k

Ar r o w h e a d S t a t e Par k

museums History buffs can make a day-long journey or more to visit the museums in the Lake Eufaula area. Civil War, Eufaula Lake, Cowboy and Rodeo, Native American, and community history are all part of the museum trek.

Honey Springs Battlefield and Visitors Center

preserves the history of the largest and most influential Civil War engagement ever to take place in Indian Territory. On a hot, muggy day, just two weeks after the famous Battle of Gettysburg and Vicksburg, July 17, 1863, a total of nine thousand troops converged on a small farming settlement along the Texas Road in Muscogee (Creek) Nation called Honey Springs. These troops, historians believe, represented the most diverse set of individuals and cultures to fight with and against one another, than in any other conflict during the entire Civil War. American Indians fought for both the Union and Confederacy. The First, Second and Third Indian Home Guards fought for the Union. The Indian Brigade, also American Indians, fought for the Confederacy. A first for the Civil War was a group fighting for the Union that were former slaves. The first African Americans to fight in the Civil War were the First Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry Regiment. The Battlefield and Visitors center is located at 1863 Honey Springs Battlefield Rd, Checotah, OK. Open Tuesday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 918-473-5572. Eufaula Area Museum opened in 2017. Displays on Eufaula history including Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Lake Eufaula, early day maps and the community’s rich sports history are located there. A permanent railroad display, an ongoing project: Our History: Eufaula Transportation Railways and Roads is partially funded by Oklahoma Humanities. This museum is open Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or by appointment. Email EufaulaMuseum@outlook.com to schedule your visit. Admission is free. Checotah boasts two museums. The Katy Depot featuring a MKT Rail Car, has a wonderful historical display and the Heartland Heritage Museum features Checotah’s rich rodeo history, Checotah heritage and Mus-

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

cogee (Creek) Nation Culture. Check hours or make an appointment 918-473-2070. Indianola is home to the historic Choate Cabin . It features the history of George Washington Choate, a Choctaw Civil War Soldier, Tobucksy County Sheriff and Judge and the last President of the Choctaw Senate before Oklahoma’s statehood. This Indian Territory Oklahoma Statehood Settlement celebrated 150 years in 2017 and is open by appointment 773-844-1804. The Haskell County Historical Society and Museum is located downtown Stigler. Give them a call 918-967-2161 to find out about their displays and hours. McAlester has several historical sites to visit. There’s a map that includes 25 sites to visit. Some are open daily but others can be visited by appointment only. The Masonic Center known as one of the most beautiful Scottish Rite buildings in the nation; The Castle , built by German Prisoners of World War II and the Tannehill Family Heirlooms and Gun Museum are among the sites. Call the McAlester Tourism Department to get your copy of the Historical Map 918-423-9300 ext.4993. Three Rivers Museum located in Muskogee tells the fascinating story of the development of the Three Rivers region of Oklahoma. As one of the earliest areas west of the Mississippi to be settled, this region has a long and colorful past. The Midland Valley Railroad Depot has been restored to its original beauty. Exhibits on local multiethnic history fill the passenger and freight areas of the depot and a charming gift shop is housed in the old ticket booth. There’s also a 1940s era diesel switch engine open for visitors to climb about. Museum hours are Wednesday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

standing rock

s early as 1535 it is believed that Coronado and his Spanish explorers had found their way to the confluence of the South and North Canadian Rivers and left carvings about 30 feet above a 40-65 feet tall protruding rock formation along the river. It is also quite certain that in 1722 when Frenchman Bernard de la Harp decided to explore north of the Red River- the “Spanish boundary,” and make commercial treaties with the Indians that he used the same rock formation as a landmark and a point of reference. But it is the 1830’s journal entries by Captain Benjamin Bonneville from the U.S. 7th Infantry sent to Fort Gibson and beyond where we find the first documentation of what he called “Mary’s Rock”, we know now as “Standing Rock.” During Captain Bonneville’s service at Fort Gibson and Fort Smith his superior talents and training were requisitioned by his superiors for important assignments. Congress provided for the abandonment of Fort Gibson and withdrawing the troops to the Arkansas line and building a new post at Fort Smith, and for constructing a road along the western line of Arkansas. In 1830 there was pending in Congress a bill providing for the removal of the Indians from the eastern states to the west pursuant to the recommendation of President Jackson. This bill was enacted into a law on June 30, 1830. Directly after that the War Department exerted itself in various directions to secure all possible information about the country to which it was proposed to remove the Indians with the view to a more intelligent understanding of the situation to meet the objections of the Indians to removal; and to know more definitely what sections of the west would provide homes for the Indians, the resources, soil, vegetation, water supply, topography and other elements necessary to a proper understanding of the subject. Information was solicited from the traders and trappers in the western country and several military expeditions were sent out from Fort Gibson to secure information of this character and report to Washington. In line with these efforts, instructions were

given to Captain Bonneville in September 1830 to examine and report on the features of the country adjacent to the Canadian River from what at one time had been the western boundary line of Arkansas westward to what was known as the Cross Timbers which was assumed to be the limit of habitable land. The report reflects the opinion generally held in those days that the country in the region examined and particularly the prairie country would not sustain human life and Bonneville even went so far as to characterize it as a barren waste. His judgment, in common with that of other authorities of his time, is interesting as fixing the conceptions and standards of those days by which white men measured the value of the new lands and countries on the frontiers. On November 3, 1830 Bonneville wrote, “Sir, in obedience to your Order under date 27 Sept. 1830 I proceeded to where the old Western boundary line of the Territory crossed the Canadian River, and meandered and surveyed it up the bed of Canadian River to the Brushy Woods

usually called Cross Timbers. Due West the boundary line stands Mary’s Rock, it is sixty-five feet high and 20 in diameter and nearly round. It is a great curiosity and an excellent Land Mark.” According to stories told by the Indians, the Spaniards hid silver and gold here. The carvings were deciphered to mean disaster, which lines up with the stories told by the Indians that the Spaniards became too ill and could no longer carry the gold, so they buried it. They were planning on returning once they were healthier, but everyone either died of illness or was killed. For many years the river and area around Standing Rock was a favorite fishing spot. Also, thousands of picnickers, sightseers and campers roamed about the region. The Standing Rock area was the scene of frenzied activity by treasure hunters for over a hundred years who dug and blasted the rocky hillsides into craters and pits which left the area with the appearance of the jagged surface of the moon. No gold or silver was ever found although many small fortunes were spent in seeking the long-lost treasure. With the completion of Lake Eufaula in 1964 Standing Rock is now covered by the waters of Lake Eufaula. The historic landmark stood in the middle of the Canadian river about two miles below the junction of the North and South

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

mural

Eufaula 3D Interactive Mural of Standing Rock 115 Selmon Rd

Canadians. When the lake is at its top level 585 feet the top of the huge upright rock is approximately 25 feet below the surface. In September 2020, renowned 3-D mural street artist Tracy Lee Stum arrived in downtown Eufaula to paint an exciting new mural to be located a 115 Selmon Road, the original site of the legendary JM’s Restaurant. There will be several points on the mural where people can seem to be part of the painting, said Karen Weldin, president of Vision Eufaula, project sponsor. “There will be a boat and it will look like they’re in a boat, or it will look like they’re climbing on Standing Rock or sitting in another area. It’s going to be 3-D illusion,” Weldin said. “It’s quite the destination place.” “There’s a floor section there, a patio area. That’s going to be painted along with the two walls,” Stum said. “Half of a box, let’s say.” She said she designed her painting around a Lake Eufaula theme. “We are going to pay tribute to Standing Rock, the iconic symbol that used to be there,” she said. “They will be able to interact in a variety of ways with the piece, and the primary focal point will be Standing Rock.”

Mike Cathey

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

scenic drive and biker trips

Road Trip

Distance to Lake Eufaula...

From Dallas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201 miles From Ft. Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 miles From Kansas City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333 miles From OKC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 miles From Tulsa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 miles From Wichita. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260 miles

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

Lake Eufaula has beautiful, scenic drives for motorcycle enthusiasts. The Lake Loop gives bikers great views of the massive waters of Lake Eufaula with smooth riding on blacktop roads through all sorts of terrain. Take Highway 9 east of Eufaula and ride through the Longtown area to Highway 71 at Enterprise. Check out the shops and dining opportunities along the way. Turn north on 71 and discover the Brooken area and the panoramic view of Lake Eufaula Dam. There are parks and recreation areas to stop and see the outdoors. Be sure to stop and enjoy the view at the dam overlook and make plans to return to experience the 450 acre ATV Trail just below the dam. After crossing the dam, turn left in front of the boulder and travel through the hillside of the Porum area. At the stop sign, turn left onto Texanna Road and follow it through all sorts of lake developments, parks and areas to explore. Travelers will end up at Highways 69 and 150. Go under 69 and follow the road out the Lake Eufaula State Park or get on 69 and head to your next destination. This is about a 50 mile ride. Timing is all up to you. There are marinas, shops, dining, campgrounds, lodging facilities, sandy beaches, fishing and swimming holes and lots of fun things to explore on this ride. Heading south on Highway 69 from Eufaula is another great ride. Take a detour through Arrowhead State Park and see all it has to offer. Then continue on 69 to Crowder, a little lakeside community. Exit there and get on Nale Road to head toward Blocker. Be sure to slow down and look both ways for a gorgeous view as you cross the lake. At Blocker turn right onto Highway 31. This will take you through the Elm Point area and into Krebs, Oklahoma’s Little Italy. Stop at Pete’s Place for a divine meal or try one of the other Italian Restaurants in this community before continuing on to McAlester and Highway 69. This 35 mile ride has plenty of action with opportunities to stop, shop, eat or just enjoy the outdoors. These rides are suggested for bikers but can be enjoyed by anyone!

eufaula wetland park

ufaula Wetland Park is an educational urban stormwater wetland located near Eufaula Cove. The park, developed as a collaborative project with local, state, and federal partners, was designed to provide opportunities for learners of all ages to experience wetlands and learn about the benefits of wetland ecosystems. So, what is a wetland? Very simply, a wetland is a unique and vital link between land and water. These transition zones serve many critical purposes, including providing food and shelter for all sorts of wildlife, absorbing and slowing floodwaters and urban stormwaters, and/or acting as a filtering system that protects and cleans lake and river water destined to become the water we drink, cook with, bathe in and use to grow livestock and food. Team Up to Clean Up (TUCU) and Save Our Water (SOW) wanted Lake Eufaula residents and visitors—both children and adults—to understand how wetlands work and why they are important. But most natural wetlands are remote, often impassable on foot, and even if you are standing in a wetland, the relationships and interdependence among the water, plants, soil, mam-

mals, birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians that are all part of a wetland are not always easily understood. So, for that understanding to happen, we needed to create an easily accessible place where people could “get up close” and witness some of the aspects of these unique systems. Wetlands can be found in every county and climatic zone in the United States, so we knew we could find either a wetland to restore or an area to construct a functioning wetland in or near the city of Eufaula. We identified an area near the shoreline, north of Eufaula Cove that could serve as a stormwater wetland. This location, between the lake and an urban environment (with typical components related to stormwater pollution —pesticides and discarded solid waste from

homes, driveways, streets and lawns) allows our Wetland Park to both reduce contaminants entering the lake and help educate people on the benefits of a wetland in an urban environment. Visitors will see interpretive/educational signs identifying various flora and fauna and their symbiotic relationship in the wetlands as they traverse trails and viewing platforms. Those who take the time to visit this environmentally educational ecosystem will undoubtedly go away with not only more knowledge, but also a desire to learn more about a wetland and its biological secrets. Additionally, Eufaula Wetland Park has inspired the construction of other recreational facilities in Eufaula Cove.

Continued on page 43

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

disc golf

Don’t Just Dream!

20 Years of Experience

Sheryl Bichsel, Owner/Broker Dan Kirby, Associate Elaine Alexander, Associate Christine Riley, Associate Office: 918-689-4800 | Cell: 918-617-0042 paradiserealtyllc@sbcglobal.net lakeeufaulahomes.com 201 North Main • Eufaula

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

One of these is a brand new 18-hole disc golf course, showcasing a new design, new basket and tee pads, and—for many residents—a whole new experience. The Wetlands Park course starts at the pavilion on the cove, stretches around the wetlands collection area and back to finish at the pavilion with a narrow, 931 foot, par 5, 18th hole. Disc golf is a fun game that is sweeping the country, and the EWP course is beginner-friendly, free and open to the public. The Lake Eufaula Disc Golf Alliance has already hosted a disc golf day with classes, and more will be offered in 2021. The Alliance is also planning tournaments and leagues, so be watching for future events.

Vacation on a budget? Try these tips • Attend FREE events in the area. Festivals, fireworks shows, parades, car shows, State Park events • Find lodging that provides breakfast or has a kitchen to cook meals and snacks • Ask for specials or off-season discount pricing • Use public access beaches and picnic pavilions • Select lodging that offers extras like pools, kayaks, bikes, hiking or other FREE activities • Plan meals at restaurants that have specials

lake living

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

lake living

your dream home awaits! Home Purchase • Refinance Construction • Remodel

501 E Carl Albert Parkway 608 S George Nigh Expressway 918-426-0200 www.bancfirst.bank *With approved credit.

McAlester - 918-558-5856 / Durant - 580-634-5888 524 E Choctaw Ave

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide

2510 W Main St

2021 Lake Eufaula Guide