Lake Towns in Oklahoma: 13 Beautiful Lakes in Oklahoma to Live on in 2024
With landmarks like the Chickasaw National Recreation Area and the Black Kettle National Grassland, Oklahoma has a vast range of landscapes to explore if you’re living in the state. From prairies and forests to plains and lakes, Oklahoma has plenty of stunning places to call home. And if you’re looking to live the lakeside lifestyle, Oklahoma has countless lakes that are great for buying a home near.
At Redfin, we’ve gathered a list of 13 lakes in Oklahoma to buy a home this year. Whether you’re looking for a bustling city by the water or a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature, we can help you find your perfect Oklahoma lake town.
1. Arcadia Lake (Edmond)
Nearest city: Edmond, OK
Median home sale price: $360,000
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,157
Population: 95,000
Homes for sale in Edmond, OK
Apartments for rent in Edmond, OK
The first spot on our list of lakes in Oklahoma to live on is Arcadia Lake. Located on the eastern side of Edmond, Lake Arcadia creates a serene escape with its clear waters and lush surroundings. This lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking along its scenic trails. You can find parks like Spring Creek Park, Storybook Forest, and Spring Creek Swim Beach. The city of Edmond has a great blend of suburban living and natural beauty. Just a short drive from downtown, residents can enjoy the best of both worlds – lake life and the conveniences of city amenities.
2. Broken Bow Lake (Broken Bow)
Nearest city: Broken Bow, OK
Median home sale price: $308,000
Population: 4,100
Homes for sale in Broken Bow, OK
Apartments for rent in Broken Bow, OK
Broken Bow Lake is a gem located on the eastern side of Oklahoma near Arkansas. This picturesque lake is surrounded by lush forests, like Beavers Bend State Park, and offers a plethora of activities such as kayaking, fishing, and swimming. The nearest city is Broken Bow, known for its friendly community and charming local businesses located along Main Street. Broken Bow provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to live by the water and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
3. Fort Gibson Lake (Wagoner)
Nearest city: Wagoner, OK
Median home sale price: $130,000
Population: 8,500
Homes for sale in Wagoner, OK
Apartments for rent in Wagoner, OK
Fort Gibson Lake, located in the quaint city of Wagoner, is a great spot for those who are looking to be near state parks. The lake is known for its excellent fishing spots and beautiful, expansive waters that are perfect for boating and water sports. The area is home to Sequoyah State Park, several marinas, and boat launches, so there’s plenty to do from hiking to taking your boat out on the water. Wagoner, with its small-town charm and population of 8,500, has a community feel with its local restaurants along Cherokee Avenue. The city’s proximity to the lake allows residents easy access to outdoor activities while enjoying the comforts of town amenities.
4. Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees (Cleora)
Nearest city: Cleora, OK
Population: 1,500
Homes for sale in Cleora, OK
Apartments for rent in Cleora, OK
Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees is situated at the Ozark Mountain’s foothills, offering picturesque views of the mountains. The lake has over 1,300 miles of shoreline so there are plenty of recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and water skiing. Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees, often shortened to just Grand Lake, has several yacht clubs, cozy cabin rentals, and campgrounds. There are several small towns surrounding the lake, but the main city is Cleora. Cleora has some waterfront restaurants, local markets, and plenty of marinas to keep your boat.
5. Keystone Lake (Cleveland)
Nearest city: Cleveland, OK
Median home sale price: $159,000
Population: 3,200
Homes for sale in Cleveland, OK
Apartments for rent in Cleveland, OK
The fifth lake on our list is Keystone Lake, with its sprawling waters and natural beauty. This lake is a highlight of the small town of Cleveland and a popular spot for those living in nearby Tulsa. This lake offers residents and visitors a variety of water sports, fishing, and camping. There are a lot of parks around the lake like Washington Irving South Recreation Area, Keystone Ancient Forest, and Keystone State Park, where you can find nature trails. The nearest city, Cleveland, is located at the northern point of the lake. This town of about 3,200 has several local restaurants and easy access to Keystone Lake.
6. Lake Eufaula (Eufaula)
Nearest city: Eufaula, OK
Population: 2,900
Median home sale price: $170,000
Homes for sale in Eufaula, OK
Apartments for rent in Eufaula, OK
Lake Eufaula is one of the largest man-made lakes, with a sprawling 102,500 acres. It’s Oklahoma’s largest lake, offering lots of options for fishing, boating, and swimming. You can find various recreational areas from beaches, state parks like Arrowhead State Park and Lake Eufaula State Park, and waterfront restaurants in the quaint lake towns. One of the nearby cities is Eufaula, home to about 2,900 residents. Eufaula’s community is vibrant and welcoming with its charming Main Street, where you’ll find restaurants, cafes, and shops.
7. Lake Hefner and Lake Overholser (Oklahoma City)
Nearest city: Oklahoma City, OK
Median home sale price: $259,450
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,002
Population: 655,000
Homes for sale in Oklahoma City, OK
Apartments for rent in Oklahoma City, OK
Lake Hefner and Lake Overholser are both located in Oklahoma City, giving residents lots of options to enjoy waterfront living. These lakes are popular spots for sailing, fishing, and picnicking, providing a picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle. Lake Hefner has several parks around the perimeter, like Lakeshore Park, Stars and Stripes Park, and Bluff Creek Park, as well as a lighthouse. Lake Overholser is located along the west side of Oklahoma City and is a great spot to enjoy a picnic or fish. The lakes’ proximity to Oklahoma’s vibrant neighborhoods and their natural beauty make them great options for those looking for nature and city life.
8. Lake Murray (Ardmore)
Nearest city: Ardmore, OK
Median home sale price: $149,000
Average 1-bedroom rent: $909
Population: 24,000
Homes for sale in Ardmore, OK
Apartments for rent in Ardmore, OK
Lake Murray is located in the middle of Lake Murray State Park so there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures. With its clear waters, beaches, and campsites, Lake Murray is a great place to hike, fish, and camp. The lake is known for landmarks like Tucker Tower and the floating cabins along the water. Ardmore is located just north of the lake and combines the charm of small-town living with the beauty of Oklahoma’s natural landscapes. The area has museums like the Greater Southwest Historical Museum and the charming Main Street where you’ll find local shops and restaurants.
9. Lake Texoma (Tishomingo)
Nearest city: Tishomingo, OK
Median home sale price: $190,000
Population: 3,000
Homes for sale in Tishomingo, OK
Apartments for rent in Tishomingo, OK
Lake Texoma is on the Oklahoma-Texas border and is a large lake known for its excellent fishing, boating, and beautiful landscapes. The lake has plenty of marinas and campgrounds, and is home to the Lake Texoma State Park, which has a walking trail. Tishomingo, the nearest city, offers a quaint and friendly atmosphere for residents with its local cafes and museums like the Chickasaw National Capitol Building. There are lots of other small communities surrounding the lake to explore.
10. Lake Thunderbird (Norman)
Nearest city: Norman, OK
Median home sale price: $266,200
Average 1-bedroom rent: $887
Population: 125,000
Homes for sale in Norman, OK
Apartments for rent in Norman, OK
Lake Thunderbird is a peaceful retreat in the bustling city of Norman. Known for its tranquil waters and lush surroundings, the lake is a favorite among locals for boating, fishing, and picnicking. Lake Thunderbird has two main parks located on the north and south ends of the lake – Lake Thunderbird State Park and Little River State Park. You can also find trails like Clear Bay Trails Trailhead and Critter Alley Trail, as well as campgrounds. Norman, with a population of 125,000, is the third largest city in Oklahoma and has plenty to do, from exploring the charming downtown area to checking out museums like the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art and the Moore-Lindsay Historical House Museum.
11. Oologah Lake (Oologah)
Nearest city: Oologah, OK
Median home sale price: $129,000
Population: 1,300
Homes for sale in Oologah, OK
Apartments for rent in Oologah, OK
Oologah Lake is a picturesque setting for a variety of water sports and outdoor activities, like fishing, boating, and picnicking. The area is full of trails and landmarks, like Skull Hollow Nature Trail, Will Rogers Country Centennial Trail, Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch, and Blue Creek Park. The town of Oologah, with its small population of 1,300, has a welcoming community feel. Oologah Lake’s clear waters and scenic beauty, combined with the town’s welcoming atmosphere, make it a great area for homeowners looking for a tranquil lakeside setting.
12. Skiatook Lake (Skiatook)
Nearest city: Skiatook, OK
Median home sale price: $179,500
Population: 8,400
Homes for sale in Skiatook, OK
Apartments for rent in Skiatook, OK
Skiatook Lake is a beautiful reservoir known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning sunsets. The lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and swimming, with views of the bluffs and rugged cliffs. Skiatook Lake has several marinas, parks, and trails like Osage Park Recreation Area and Stay Gold Sunset Trail. The nearest town is Skiatook where you’ll find coffee shops, cafes, and local restaurants along WC Rogers Boulevard. It’s often called the “Gateway to the Osage” as it’s close to Osage County.
13. Tenkiller Ferry Lake (Cookson)
Nearest city: Cookson, OK
Median home sale price: $292,000
Population: 1,030
Homes for sale in Cookson, OK
Apartments for rent in Cookson, OK
Tenkiller Ferry Lake, often simply called “Tenkiller,” is a stunning body of water located near the small town of Cookson. This lake is awesome for divers, fishermen, and families looking for a scenic vacation spot or a serene place to call home. Tenkiller’s clear waters, recreational opportunities, and the community of Cookson make it a great choice for those looking for a lake in Oklahoma to live on this year.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the lakes in Oklahoma. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during April 2024. Average rental data from Rent.com April 2024. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
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