Historic Oklahoma Gem: Lake Murray State Park

As the economic slump continues, Oklahomans will be searching for weekend getaway trips and summer vacations closer to home. However, this need not mean that Oklahomans and North Texans will be settling for less. As Oklahoma's largest and oldest state park, Lake Murray's crystal clear blue waters are nestled in scenic rolling hills, located minutes from I-35 in south central Oklahoma. Lake Murray State Park offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, horseback riding, ATV trails, swimming, boating, fishing, golfing, and just relaxing on a sandy beach watching the kiddos bouncing from playground equipment to building sand castles.

If tent camping is your idea of getting back to nature, Lake Murray provides eight designated campgrounds, as well as three group camping areas ideal for youth groups and family reunions up to 175 occupants. In addition, there are six pavilions with electricity, picnic tables and grills for day use. If RV camping is more your bag, there are two campgrounds with full hookups and six campgrounds with electrical and water hookups. Dump stations and comfort stations with private showers are located at each campground. For the vacationers seeking a home away from home, Lake Murray Resort offers over 50 cabins, villas, and cottages with various levels of amenities. Finally, for the romantics seeking lodge accommodations after a wedding at the Lake Murray Chapel, Lake Murray Resort offers guest rooms ranging from twin beds to the spacious Evergreen Suite. The Flower Garden Suite is a popular choice among honeymooners.

There is a Frisbee golf course for the young at heart, mini-golf for the timid, and the real thing, an 18-hole course with putting green, driving range, gasoline carts, rental clubs, pull carts, and a pro shop adjacent to the Lake Murray Airstrip. From Memorial Day weekend thru Labor Day weekend, Tucker's Tower Nature Center provides park naturalists to share nature crafts, supervise hiking adventures and various other nature programs. There are almost five miles of designated hiking trails scattered around the lake. For the western-style vacationers, Lake Murray Riding Stables offer trail rides, moonlight rides, hayrides, and cookouts. For the more modern day thrill seeker, the beautiful state park offers over 1,000 acres of wooded and lakeside ATV trails complete with RV pads, water/sewer connections, and a comfort station with showers.

If your lake vacation includes boating, Lake Murray Marina is a full-service facility with certified Mercury, Mercruiser, OMC/Onan/Kohler warranty service. The 450+ slip marina rents pontoon boats, fishing boats, and jet skis. A boat brokerage with annual/overnight slip rentals are available for boat owners. The Ships Store is loaded with fishing accessories, food and beverages, multiple pumps at the gas dock, and friendly service. Located near the Lake Murray Resort, the Mini-Golf and Water Sports facility offers kayak, yak board, water bikes, paddle boats, canoe, and bicycle rentals. In addition to water skiing and sailboard instruction, pontoon, and houseboat cruises are offered. Wave runners, life jackets, and water skis can be rented as a package deal. There is even a local Lake Murray fishing guide service available for the serious fishermen.

For those budget-minded vacationers who feared downsizing their vacation expenses would downsize their summer getaway enjoyment, take heart! Lake Murray State Park is a top shelf opportunity for family fun in the sun. Enjoy some of the best hospitality Oklahoma offers with peace of mind. The entire state park is patrolled and secured by Park Rangers 24/7. So now you have no excuse. Beat the rush and make your summer reservations asap! Lake Murray Resort Cabin Rental & Lodge Rooms (800) 257-0322, Lake Murray Marina (580) 223-9339, Tucker Tower Nature Center (580) 223-2109, Pro Shop (580) 223-6613, Lake Murray Riding Stables (580) 223-8172, Park Office (580) 223-4044