Where to Scuba Dive in Oklahoma
Jennifer IdolLake Murray, near the Texas border, abounds with interesting freshwater animals such as the red-eared slider turtle and logperch.
Oklahoma is defined by the same type of prairie landscape as northern Texas, and neighboring dive communities in both states trade weekend experiences in each state’s reservoirs and lakes. Distances here are measured in time instead of miles because destinations lie within a two- to three-hour drive of one another. Since these dive sites are remote, it’s best to bring all the gear you’ll need for your dives.
As a Texan, I begin my Oklahoma journeys by diving in Lake Murray, a site often used for dive training by Dallas-based instructors. Divers from Kansas and Arkansas looking to stay closer to home often frequent a handful of popular dive sites on the eastern side of Oklahoma. Boats, platforms, and motorcycles at Lake Murray’s Marietta Landing have been sunk throughout the years to provide attractions for divers. However, I find the variety of fish compelling, especially on shallow dives, and have seen a number of fish that include freshwater drum, walleye and logperch. Summers can be sweltering. I prefer diving the region in spring and fall.
Be careful of zebra mussels in Oklahoma lakes, and always wear booties. I created murals for the modern Lake Murray Nature Center, one of which promotes cleaning gear and washing out bilges, key to preventing the spread of the invasive species. They have since migrated south into Texas. A freshwater vinegar soak will clean zebra mussel traces from gear.
I first discovered Broken Bow Lake during my 50-state journey and was impressed by the unusual rock formations revealed by the Broken Bow Uplift. Yellow-orange sedimentary rock and limestone roll out from the shoreline and continue underwater. When heading straight out from coves, the rocks separate into sheer cliffs. If you don’t feel like camping in the state parks, luxury rental cabins surround Broken Bow Lake and make an appealing family getaway.
Tenkiller Ferry Lake (Lake Tenkiller) lies in northern Oklahoma and is worth a full day unto itself. In fact, any one of these lakes could be explored for an entire weekend. Perhaps my favorite reason for diving Lake Tenkiller is the renowned Amish Country Store & Restaurant, where I routinely stop for strawberry rhubarb pie and other homemade specialties.
Dive Sites
PADI StaffThe state is landlocked, but you don't have to be.
Lake Murray
Rent a boat to access islands and additional dive sites on the lake. On the south end of the lake, Marietta Landing Campground is the primary dive site and provides restrooms and easy shore access.
Broken Bow Lake
Coves near Beavers Bend Marina provide reliable dive sites, such as the Eagle Drive Day Use area. Silt becomes thick below 30 feet, and a dive light is strongly recommended to penetrate the darkness and low visibility below 60 feet. Use of dive flags is strongly enforced.
Tenkiller Ferry Lake
The clearest lake in Oklahoma features notable attractions in the dive park on Fisherman’s Point in Lake Tenkiller State Park. Protected underwater artifacts, including a jailhouse and buggies, remain from the damming of the Illinois River. Rent a boat to dive dramatic cliffs off the islands. Depths reach 165 feet.
Trip Tips
1. Lake Murray Nature Center
Visit the nature center for a look at life underwater in Lake Murray in a series of educational displays featuring photography by the author. Climb historic Tucker Tower, built in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration, for a commanding view of the lake across from the marina.
2. Beavers Bend/ Hochatown State Park
This park on the edge of Broken Bow Lake is full of hiking trails and camping opportunities, and is surrounded by the Kiamichi Mountains, Mountain Fork River and the Ouachita National Forest. Rent kayaks to explore the rivers; grab a slice at Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Tap Room.
3. Chickasaw National Recreation Area
North of Lake Murray, these springs in the middle of prairie country are a surprising find, but one worth hiking and swimming. Overseen by the National Park Service, the well-known spring at Little Niagara Falls can become crowded during the summer. Wear booties to protect your feet from zebra mussels.
Need to Know
Jennifer IdolExposure gear can keep divers comfortable in cooler inland waters.
