THE WHISPER OF THE WATER: A ROAD TRIP ESCAPE TO LAKE MURRAY OKLAHOMA STATE PARK IN CHICKASAW COUNTRY
By Terri Guthrie
We often believe that vacations require traveling far away. Don’t forget to consider a nearby location for an easy, relaxing road trip escape especially if you desire to be surrounded by nature, a pristine lake, and many activity options. All of this is located just 26 miles from the state line, 3 miles off Interstate 35 at exit 24.
Did you know Oklahoma has a hidden gem that’s a fabulous vacation destination? It’s Lake Murray State Park, located in the heart of Chickasaw Country. This is the first and largest state park in the state of Oklahoma. Named after former Governor of Oklahoma William Murray, the state park covers more than 12,500 acres. The beautiful man-made lake features 5,700 surface acres of aqua-blue water and is one of the clearest lakes in the state. In my opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful lakes around due to its unbelievably clear, aquamarine water.
ON BIG BLEND RADIO: Travel writer Terri Guthrie shares what to experience in Lake Murray Oklahoma State Park. Watch here in the YouTube player or download the episode on Podbean.
My family has been visiting here for decades and has created many wonderful memories at Lake Murray State Park. This scenic area is lush with mature trees and rolling hills. The amenities include parks, beaches, hiking trails, campgrounds, an ATV/motorcycle area, an 18-hole golf course, a marina, snack shops, a restaurant, boat ramps, and various lodging options.
Accommodations
Within the park, there’s a beautiful, modern 32-room lodge situated on the waterfront, complete with a boat dock for guests’ use. All rooms feature private balconies, perfect for enjoying your morning coffee. The lodge offers meeting areas, stunning views of the lake, and all the amenities you will need for a comfortable stay. Adjacent to the property is the Lookout Restaurant, with indoor and outdoor dining.
There are also 56 cabins available for rent. These cabins are original and very rustic. They are available in various sizes and locations throughout the park. And if you prefer to camp, this is the place. Lake Murray State Park has nine RV campgrounds with 321 RV campsites and 165 tent sites scattered throughout its expansive landscape.
My preferred choice for lodging here is the Floating Cabins. These privately owned cabins include options from one-bedroom Pods to the 18-person Atrium Lodge and everything in between. All floating cabins are beautifully decorated and fully equipped with all the essentials for food preparation in your kitchen. Bedding, bath linens, propane grills, and propane are also furnished. All units have heat, air conditioning, and cable TV.
Imagine waking up and walking outside to cast your fishing line right outside your door. Our little fishermen loved this. My favorite was docking our boat and jet skis right off the front porch of the cabin. No more running back and forth to a boat ramp every time we were ready to get on the water.
Marina & Beach Area
Lake Murray Marina is a one-stop shop that can be accessed from land or water. Here, you can grab drinks and snacks while refueling your boat. With a ship store, SCUBA shop, comfort station, boat ramp, and swimming beach with a quarter mile of sandy beach, this area is the center for lake activities.
Tucker Tower
One of my favorite areas is Tucker Tower. It’s opposite the Lake Marina and is the most iconic structure at Lake Murray State Park. This historic landmark was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1933 as a summer retreat for Governor William Murray. The tower is now a geological museum It is currently open as an extension of the Lake Murray Nature Center, where you can learn more about the history and ecology of the area. This must-see historic tower stands 65 feet high. It’s an adventure to take the winding stairs to the top of Tucker Tower, which offers stunning bird’s-eye views of the lake below. The tower can be accessed via a short hike along a peninsula on the lake and has one of the best views in Chickasaw Country.
Biking and Hiking
This state park features trails that extend from the City of Ardmore to the Nature Center at Tucker Tower. There are approximately 30 miles of trails. Hikers and cyclists are allowed on all these trails.
Lake Murray Golf Course & Riding Stables
Other options are golfing and horseback riding. The Lake Murray Golf Course features a pro shop, a practice range, 18 holes that wind through towering oak trees, strategically placed water hazards, and a beautiful natural waterfall. Guests can also take a horseback ride or hayride at the Lake Murray Riding Stables, where private trail rides are available.
ATV Area
Lake Murray State Park is home to an exceptional ATV/ORV Area that is surrounded on two sides by beautiful Lake Murray and has trails that lead right up to the water. For years, we have enjoyed the 1,000 acres of mostly hard-packed dirt and minimal sand. Mature trees line the trails, and you can venture as far off the beaten path as you’d like. A large staging area is also available at the trail entrance, open from 8:00 a.m. to dusk each day.
Water Sports & Mini-Golf
Lake Murray Water Sports & Mini-Golf offers an 18-hole miniature golf course and rentals for paddleboats, kayaks, canoes, water bikes, sailboats, a water trampoline, and a water slide. Guests can also rent wave runners, jet boats, and pontoon boats with a slide, as well as all the necessary equipment, including wakeboards, tubes, and skis. Sunset cruises are also available every evening. The water sports and mini golf were very popular with our family.
A relaxing vacation awaits you at Oklahoma’s Lake Murray State Park. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway for two or planning your next family reunion, this is the perfect road trip destination.
Terri Guthrie is a travel journalist based in Dallas, Texas. Her syndicated work appears in numerous publications across North America and beyond. She is formerly a broadcast news director for WFTW Vacationland Broadcasting and a radio announcer for Florida’s AP Network News. Her husband, Ron, a retired USAF Fighter Pilot and Commercial International Airline Pilot, globe-trots with Terri as her assistant and videographer. Having visited 50+ countries across all six continents, Terri’s travels focus on cultural immersion, local gastronomy, unique activities, and incredible journeys. She is obsessed with our national parks, historic hotels, and photography. Terri avidly promotes responsible travel experiences. Visit https://travelwithterri.net/
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