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Grand Lake O the Cherokees Vacation Rentals

Grand Lake O the Cherokees

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Grand Lake O the Cherokees
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Why Rent On Grand Lake O the Cherokees

Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, sprawling across 46,500 surface acres in northeastern Oklahoma, is a vibrant destination that caters to a diverse array of travelers. This serpentine lake, formed by the Grand (Neosho) River, boasts an impressive 1,300 miles of shoreline, inviting adventurers to explore its vast waters. Anglers will find an abundance of largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, and the elusive paddlefish, while hunters can venture to the nearby Spavinaw Hills Game Management Area during deer hunting seasons.

For those seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, parasailing and wakeboarding are just a few of the many water sports available. Families can enjoy the kid-friendly amenities at Shangri-La Resort on Monkey Island, including a golf course, pool area, arcade, and restaurants. History buffs can visit the Pensacola Dam, a marvel of engineering that holds back the lake’s waters. Nearby state parks and private resorts offer a range of recreational facilities, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a wellness enthusiast, or a family looking for a fun-filled vacation, Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees promises an unforgettable experience.

Best time to go
Embrace the tranquil allure of late spring, from mid-April to May, when the Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees awakens in vibrant bloom. Delight in fishing beneath cerulean skies and bask by the water as summer crowds have yet to arrive, offering serene sunsets and luxurious solitude. Don't miss the iconic Mark Twain Festival in June, where laughter and music resonate against the shimmering lake, inviting a soulful connection with this picturesque oasis.
Water Quality
Grand Lake o' the Cherokees exhibits water colors ranging from deep blue to emerald, with areas of aquamarine and cerulean hues. The water clarity varies from average to excellent, with some regions offering crystal-clear conditions.
Surface area (mi)
105.06
Max depth (ft)
131.99
Elevation (ft)
744.75
Shoreline length (mi)
1299.91

Popular activities

  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Bay Fishing
  • Jet Skiing
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Marinas on Grand Lake O the Cherokees

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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Grand Lake O the Cherokees has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, it is not entirely safe to swim in Grand Lake O the Cherokees. The lake has issues with low dissolved oxygen, bacteria, turbidity, and other impairments like fecal coliform contamination and excess nutrient loadings, which can affect water quality and safety.

  • Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees is a popular destination because of its extensive water activities like fishing, boating, and swimming. The lake offers 46,500 surface acres and 1,300 miles of shoreline, along with amenities such as boat rentals and jet ski rentals. Additionally, the area features attractions like museums, golf courses, and scenic gardens.

  • At Grand Lake O the Cherokees, the daily limit for crappie is 15 combined per day with a 10-inch minimum length. Largemouth and smallmouth bass must be 14 inches or longer, while there is no size limit for spotted bass. Walleye, sauger, and saugeye have a combined limit of six per day with a 16-inch minimum.

  • The best beach for families at Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees is Pebble Beach. It offers a scenic shoreline where families can splash in the water. This area is part of the lake’s scenic and family-friendly spots, making it suitable for family activities.

  • Towns near Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees include Grove, Miami, Vinita, Afton, Wyandotte, Eucha, Disney, and Spavinaw in Oklahoma. The lake is also close to cities like Tahlequah and Tulsa, with Tulsa being about one and a half hours away. It spans across Delaware, Ottawa, Mayes, and Craig counties in Northeast Oklahoma.