Kaw Lake

Kaw Lake is located in north central Oklahoma, approximately 8 miles east of Ponca City, Oklahoma, on the Arkansas River. Project land extends northward into Kansas, ending near Arkansas City. The lake covers 17,000 surface acres and has 168 miles of shoreline at the normal elevation of 1010.00 feet above sea level. Ground breaking ceremonies were held in May 1966 and impoundment of the reservoir occurred in 1976. Construction on the recreation facilities concluded in July of 1980 with the completion of the Osage Cove Public Use Area. There are nine public use areas and two lake access points located around the lake for visitors to enjoy. Campers can select from over 300 family campsites, many of which are equipped with water and electric hookups. Groups of all types enjoy four group camping areas, three of which are located at the Osage Cove Public Use Area and one located at the Sarge Creek Cove Area. Use of the group camping areas is by reservation only. Interested parties can contact the Kaw Lake Office for reservations. Ten boat launching ramps provide boaters with easy access to Kaw Lake. Once on the water, boaters can find two full service marinas located at McFadden Cove and Pioneer Park. Swimmers are invited to enjoy designated swimming areas at Pioneer Park and Sandy Park. Kaw Lake and the Arkansas River have long been known for producing some of Oklahoma's largest catfish. Kaw Lake also offers anglers excellent opportunities to catch crappie, sand (white) bass and walleye. Hunters' skills are tested with excellent populations of whitetail deer, turkey, quail, rabbit and squirrel. During the fall waterfowl seasons Kaw Lake often attracts large numbers of migrating ducks and geese. One of Kaw Lake's most popular winter attractions is the American Bald Eagle. Traditionally, Kaw Lake has one of the states largest populations of wintering bald eagles. Numerous sites around the lake offer visitors excellent opportunities to view our nation's symbol. Peak viewing usually occurs shortly after the first of the year and lasts through January. Hikers and horseback riders are attracted to the beautiful trails along Kaw Lakes eastern shore. The Eagle View Hiking Trail is approximately 12 miles long and runs between Osage Cove and Burbank Landing. The Five Fingers Equestrian Trail extends from Burbank Landing to the Sarge Creek Cove Public Use Area. Users should be aware that both trails are closed during Oklahoma's deer rifle and primitive firearms seasons. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Kaw Lake invites you to visit this beautiful facility. We hope that you will make safety a priority with each and every visit. Whether you are on the water or in your car, please obey the rules and regulations that are in place to protect you and the resources at Kaw Lake. Please contact the Kaw Lake Office at 9400 Lake Road, Ponca City, Oklahoma, 74604, call us at 580-762-5611 or E-Mail us at od-fkk@swt02.swt.usace.army.mil if you would like further information about Kaw Lake.