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Oklahoma
56

Oklahoma State Parks

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USA Parks
Oklahoma
Southeast Region
Lake Wister State Park
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Lake Wister State Park Spiderwort © Vanessa Gaudette
Spiderwort after a rain near Wister Lake. Spring 2013
Lake Wister State Park White Addertongue © Vanessa Gaudette
I found them growing near Wister Lake in March 2013
Lake Wister State Park Jumping spider on a violet © Vanessa Gaudette
Jumping spider on a Birdsfoot Violet. Spring of 2013
Lake Wister State Park After the Strom 1 © Sharla Stephenson
by Sharla Stephenson
Lake Wister State Park After the Strom 3 © Sharla Stephenson
by Sharla Stephenson
Lake Wister State Park After the Strom © Sharla Stephenson
by Sharla Stephenson
Lake Wister State Park After the Strom 2 © Sharla Stephenson
by Sharla Stephenson
Lake Wister State Park Taste the Rainbow © Sharla Stephenson
by Sharla Stephenson
Lake Wister State Park Rainbow © Sharla Stephenson
by Sharla Stephenson
Lake Wister State Park After the Strom 4 © Sharla Stephenson
by Sharla Stephenson
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LAKE WISTER STATE PARK
LAKE WISTER STATE PARK
25679 US HWY 270
Wister, Oklahoma   74966
(lat:34.9481 lon:-94.7157) map location

Phone: 918-655-7212
Toll Free: 800-654-8240
Email: park email button icon
History of the Area
Located in Le Flore County, Oklahoma, the park was established in 1938. It covers an area of approximately 3,428 acres. The lake within it is a reservoir created by damming the Poteau River and Fourche Maline Creek.

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) constructed many facilities during its early years including cabins and trails. This work provided jobs for locals during the Great Depression.

In addition to recreational activities like fishing and boating on Lake Wister's waters, visitors can also enjoy hiking or camping at one of several campgrounds throughout this state-managed natural resource.

Over time additional amenities were added such as picnic areas with grills along with playgrounds making it family-friendly destination spot.

Today it continues to be popular among nature enthusiasts who visit from all over America annually due to its diverse wildlife population which includes deer species amongst others.

Swimming
1. Lake Wister State Park offers a designated swimming area for visitors.
2. The lake's sandy beaches provide an ideal spot for sunbathing and building sandcastles before taking a dip.
3. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swimmers should exercise caution while in the water.
4. Swimming is only allowed during daylight hours to ensure safety of all park guests.
5. Inflatable devices or pool toys can be used within the swim areas but must be monitored by adults at all times.
6. The calm waters make it suitable even for beginner-level swimmers.
7. Swimming outside marked boundaries isn't recommended due to boat traffic and fishing activities around other parts of the lake.
Boating
Boating enthusiasts have a variety of options available. The park features multiple boat ramps for easy access to the water, and there are also paddle boats and canoes available for rent. For those who prefer motorized boating, both personal vessels and rentals are allowed on the lake with no horsepower restrictions. Fishing is popular in this area as well; however, all fishing activities must comply with Oklahoma's state regulations.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in a variety of settings, including the lake and river. Species include largemouth bass, crappie, catfish and sunfish.

Boat ramps are available for those who prefer deep water angling.

Fishing docks provide easy access to prime spots along the shoreline.

Nighttime anglers can take advantage of lighted boat docks for after-dark excursions.

For kids or beginners, there's even a designated children's fishing pond stocked with catchable species.

Remember that all fishermen aged 16-62 must have an Oklahoma Fishing License unless exempt by law.



Picnicking
Lake Wister State Park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, some even featuring pavilions for larger gatherings.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can enjoy the park's multi-use trails, suitable for different skill levels. Be aware of uneven terrain.

Mountain biking is popular here due to challenging paths and scenic views. Always wear a helmet.

The paved roads within the area are also ideal for leisurely bike rides but watch out for traffic.

Remember that some areas may be restricted or closed during certain seasons; check with local authorities beforehand.

For those without bikes, rentals might not always be available on-site so plan accordingly before your visit.

Always follow trail signs and respect wildlife you encounter while cycling in this natural habitat.
Trails
1. Wards Landing Trail: This 0.75-mile trail is a loop that starts and ends at the park office, offering views of Lake Wister along its path.

2. Quarry Island Nature Trail: A short but scenic 0.5-mile hike on an island in Lake Wister accessible by footbridge; it offers excellent bird-watching opportunities.

3. Lighthouse Loop Hiking/Bike Path: An easy to moderate difficulty level trail spanning approximately two miles around the lighthouse peninsula with beautiful lake vistas throughout.

4. Meadow Ridge Equestrian Campground Trails: These trails are designed primarily for horseback riding but can also be hiked; they offer over four miles of paths through wooded areas near Meadow Ridge campground.

5. Park Office Walking Track: It's a paved quarter mile track located directly behind Park Office building which provides walkers or runners with stunning view of surrounding area including parts of Lake wister.

6. Fern Mountain Nature Trail: Approximately one mile long, this nature-filled hiking route takes you up Fern mountain providing panoramic views from top.

7. Castle Rock Climbing Area & Trails: Although known more as climbing destination, there are several small interconnected walking/hiking trails leading upto Castle rock formation.

8. White Cedar Nature Center Walkway: Located adjacent to White cedar nature center, this half-a-mile walkway winds through native plants garden before ending into picnic pavilion overlooking lake.

9. Lake Shoreline Fishing Access Paths: While not traditional hiking routes these numerous smaller pathways provide access points all across shoreline for fishing enthusiasts while doubling up as mini-hikes due their varied terrain and length.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy a variety of species in diverse habitats, including forests and wetlands. The park is home to waterfowl like ducks and geese during winter months. Songbirds such as warblers are common in springtime migration periods. Raptors like hawks or eagles may also be spotted year-round.


Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
March 27 Nice Pet Friendly Cabins by Sharla Stephenson
park review stars; one to five Despite the bad weather we had a great time during our first visit to Lake Wister...Nice cabins and nice people!!
September 16 Our favorite spot by Gary and Brenda
park review stars; one to five We stay here 2-3 times a year and absolutely love it. It is very peacful, and relaxing here.
September 11 Great Family Spring Break by Cheri Eager
park review stars; one to five Went last March for spring break with the family and loved it. The geese were returning, the weather was warm in the day and chilly at night,and the cabins were clean and comfortable. So much to do within a short car ride away. We will definately be returning this March.
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