Natural swimming hole
Lake of the Arbuckles
Lake · Oklahoma
About this swimming hole
The Lake of the Arbuckles is the Chickasaw NRA's big reservoir, with swim beaches on clear, spring-fed water. The lake sits in the Arbuckle Mountains with a scenic, hilly shoreline. It is free, uncrowded, and a completely different scene from the creek crowds.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Depth | Designated swim beaches |
| Best season | May-September |
| Fees | Free (no NPS entrance fee) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Daylight hours |
| Parking | NPS day-use parking |
| Amenities | restrooms, swim beaches, boat ramps, camping, trails |
| County | Murray County |
| Nearest town | Sulphur |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard. Swim in designated beach areas; boat traffic on the lake. |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Lake of the Arbuckles?
Yes — Lake of the Arbuckles is listed as a natural swimming spot in Oklahoma. Heads-up: No lifeguard. Swim in designated beach areas; boat traffic on the lake.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Lake of the Arbuckles require reservations?
No reservations are required at Lake of the Arbuckles based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Lake of the Arbuckles?
Reported fee info: Free (no NPS entrance fee). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Lake of the Arbuckles?
The best season is typically May-September.