McGee Creek State Park photo
ParkOklahoma, US

McGee Creek State Park

McGee Creek State Park offers a serene escape into Oklahoma's natural beauty, nestled on the southwestern edge of the Ouachita Mountain Range.

About

McGee Creek State Park offers a serene escape into Oklahoma's natural beauty, nestled on the southwestern edge of the Ouachita Mountain Range. This expansive park is home to dense forests and the pristine McGee Creek Reservoir, often hailed as one of Oklahoma's finest trophy lakes. It's a prime destination for those seeking outdoor adventures, from serious anglers to casual hikers, promising a tranquil getaway amidst diverse wildlife.

The park boasts over 25 miles of multi-use trails within the adjacent McGee Creek Natural Scenic Recreation Area, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. As you explore, keep an eye out for a variety of flora such as towering shortleaf pine, blackjack oak, American persimmon, American beautyberry, and various hawthorns. The dense woodlands are also home to diverse wildlife; visitors might spot deer, rabbit, squirrel, turkey, and a variety of birds including the vibrant Red-headed Woodpecker. Reptile enthusiasts may encounter a Three-toed Box Turtle, Rough Earthsnake, DeKay's Brownsnake, or even the formidable Timber Rattlesnake. Don't forget to look for insect life like Green Lacewings, Spittlebugs and Froghoppers, and the striking Black Swallowtail.

McGee Creek State Park provides an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Whether you're casting a line for largemouth or smallmouth bass in the reservoir, traversing scenic trails, or simply enjoying the peaceful sounds of the wilderness, the park offers a memorable experience for every visitor. With year-round camping options, including rustic lake huts and RV sites, it's a "hidden gem" that invites repeat visits to its untouched landscapes and abundant recreational offerings. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.

The history of McGee Creek State Park is closely tied to the McGee Creek Reservoir, which was created in 1985. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation built the reservoir in 1987 primarily for flood control. The park itself, encompassing approximately 2,600 acres, forms part of a larger protected area that includes the 8,900-acre McGee Creek Natural Scenic Recreation Area and the 10,000-acre McGee Creek Wildlife Management Area, collectively offering a vast expanse for conservation and recreation.

What to do here

Hiking, Mountain Biking, Horseback Riding: Explore the extensive trail system, such as the Little Bugaboo Trail or South Rim Trail.

Fishing: Enjoy the trophy fishing in McGee Creek Reservoir from a boat, shore, or covered fishing dock.

Water Sports: Boating, water skiing, swimming, and kayaking on the lake.

Camping: Choose from RV sites with hookups, primitive tent sites, or rustic lake huts.

Wildlife Viewing: Observe deer, turkey, waterfowl, and a variety of birds and smaller creatures in their natural habitats.

Seasonal info

Ticks are prevalent due to Oklahoma's warm climate and abundant vegetation; proper precautions like wearing long pants and using repellent are advised. The adjacent McGee Creek Wildlife Management Area is open to hunters during specific times of the year, so it's wise to check with the park directly for current information if planning to hike there. Winter visits offer fewer crowds and excellent stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution.

Accessibility

Paved camping sites with water and electric service are available in the Buster Hight and Potapo areas, along with comfort stations featuring showers. Some areas like the courtesy dock are noted as handicap-friendly. While efforts are made for accessibility, some trails, particularly those in the NSRA, may involve rough gravel.

Don't miss

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McGee Creek Reservoir

A "trophy lake" known for exceptional fishing, particularly for largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, and channel catfish.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Prepare for trails

Bring a map or use a navigation app, as some trails are not clearly marked.

Insect protection

Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts and use EPA-approved insect repellent, as ticks are prevalent in the park.

Permits for NSRA

Remember to obtain a free permit from the Natural Scenic Recreation Area office before using the multi-use trails.

Stargazing

Pack a flashlight for navigating at night, as the park offers amazing stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution.

Wildlife Management Area awareness

If venturing into the adjacent McGee Creek Wildlife Management Area, be aware that it's open to hunters during specific seasons; check with the park for current regulations and safety precautions.

Camping reservations

It's advisable to make reservations for campsites, especially RV sites, as they can fill up, particularly during peak seasons.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, McGee Creek State Park is renowned as one of Oklahoma's finest "trophy lakes." Anglers can expect to find an abundance of large and smallmouth bass, channel catfish, perch, crappie, and sunfish. Fishing is possible from boats, the shoreline, or covered fishing docks.
Yes, McGee Creek State Park offers an extensive trail system, particularly within the adjacent McGee Creek Natural Scenic Recreation Area (NSRA), which features over 25 miles of multi-use trails. These trails are suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. A free permit is required to access the trails in the NSRA, which can be obtained at the entrance station or park office.
McGee Creek State Park provides a variety of camping options. There are semi-modern RV sites with water and electric hookups in areas like Buster Hight and Potapo. Primitive tent camping sites are also available. For a unique experience, visitors can rent one of the rustic lake huts, which include bunk beds, a fireplace, and air conditioning, with restrooms and showers within walking distance.

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