More Than Just a Lake
That feeling when you stumble upon a delightful surprise? Expect plenty of those here.
Whether you're charting out a family vacation, seeking the perfect spot for a romantic escapade, or just exploring on a spontaneous day out, Grand Lake promises experiences beyond your imagination. Every visit is a chance to uncover something new, something magical.
While Grand Lake's reputation for world-class fishing and unparalleled boating adventures is well-deserved, it's the lesser-known charms that weave the complete story of this enchanting destination nestled in the foothills of The Ozarks.
Delve into the past at local museums that shine a light on everything from the Cherokee legacy to the throwback experience of an old-time Ozark mountain village. Discover the tales that shaped this land and its people.
The Majestic Pensacola Dam
At the heart of it all is Grand Lake O' the Cherokee. This sprawling beauty, boasting over 1,300 miles of meandering shoreline, is cradled by the mighty Pensacola Dam.
Pensacola Dam
The Pensacola Dam is a testament to human prowess. Not only does it hold back the vast waters of Grand Lake, but it also stands as a symbol of the region's development and progress. The longest multiple-arch dam in the world, completed in 1940.
At the west end of the dam in Langley, you'll find the GRDA Ecosystems and Education Center. And below the dam, discover world-class off-roading and rock crawling, plus unmatched eagle watching in winter months.
Learn about Pensacola Dam | Explore South Grand LakeFeatured Attractions
Har-Ber Village Museum
Step back in time at this remarkable open-air museum featuring over 100 historic buildings and thousands of antiques depicting life in the Ozarks from the 1870s to the 1930s.
(918) 786-6446 | WebsiteGRDA Ecosystems & Education Center
Interactive exhibits about Grand Lake's ecosystem, wildlife, and water management. Home of free Pensacola Dam tours in summer (Memorial Day through Labor Day).
Learn More | (918) 782-4726Bernice Nature Center
Located at Grand Lake State Park's 88-acre Bernice Area. Features nature exhibits, wildlife feeding area, two watchtowers, playgrounds, swimming beach, and a 1-mile paved walking path.
(918) 257-8330GLOC Aviation - Helicopter Tours
See Grand Lake from above! Scenic helicopter tours over the dam, lake, and surrounding countryside. Private tours available for a truly memorable experience.
(918) 777-4562 | Book a TourLendonwood Gardens
An 8-acre botanical paradise featuring over 1,200 different plant species. Wander shady pathways through themed gardens including Japanese, English, and American styles.
Visit WebsiteEagle Watching at Eagle Pass
Every winter, American Bald Eagles congregate below Pensacola Dam to feed on fish in the tailwaters. GRDA's Eagle Pass observation area offers excellent viewing.
Viewing GuideAdventure & Outdoor Fun
Disney Rock Crawling
Oklahoma's premier off-road destination with trails ranging from beginner to extreme. Home of the famous Big Meat Run event each spring.
Trail GuideGrand Lake State Park
Camping, hiking, swimming beaches, and picnic areas at multiple park locations around the lake including Bernice, Honey Creek, and Twin Bridges areas.
Golf Courses
Several quality courses in the Grand Lake area including Shangri-La Resort, Patricia Island Country Club, and more.
Casinos
Try your luck at several gaming establishments in the area including Indigo Sky Casino and Buffalo Run Casino.
Looking for More?
The Town of Grove has much to offer as the commercial hub of the area. Monkey Island provides restaurants, entertainment, and family activities. Let the waters of Grand Lake be just the starting point of your adventure—dive into the wide variety of experiences that lie beyond, waiting to be explored, cherished, and remembered.
Welcome to Grand Lake – where every visit is a new adventure.