Lake Hefner

Lake Hefner
35.5678° N, -97.5957° W
Lake Hefner

Lake Hefner, an urban oasis in Oklahoma City, offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This picturesque lake is surrounded by 18 miles of shoreline, featuring the iconic 36-foot Lighthouse at East Wharf, inspired by the historic Brant Point Lighthouse. The lighthouse shines nightly, making it a stunning spot to capture sunset moments.

For adventure seekers, Lake Hefner boasts the 9.4-mile Lake Hefner Trail, perfect for biking, running, or walking, with numerous lookouts and scenic views. The Bert Cooper Trail, a 1.9-mile path around Stars & Stripes Park, is ideal for families and young children. RIVERSPORT at the lake’s marina offers sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayak rentals during the summer months.

Wellness enthusiasts can enjoy leisurely walks, morning jogs, or peaceful picnics along the lake’s scenic paths. The area is also home to an enclosed heated fishing dock, playgrounds, and picnic areas. For those looking to stay active, there’s a golf course with a pro shop and cart rental, as well as a model airplane field and softball fields.

Family-friendly activities abound, including dining at lakeside restaurants and spotting local wildlife such as American mink and Great Herons. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or quality family time, Lake Hefner provides an enchanting and diverse experience.

Surface area (mi)
6.21
Max depth (ft)
95.14
Elevation (ft)
1056.43
Shoreline length (mi)
16.4
Best time to go
Visit Lake Hefner from late spring to early fall, particularly May through September. Revel in sunny afternoons filled with sailing and paddleboarding, while enjoying the gentle rustle of leaves and stunning sunsets. The serene weekdays offer tranquility, enhancing your fishing escapades amid fewer tourists.
Water Quality
The water at Lake Emory is often murky and sediment-rich, with a tannin-stained or tea-colored appearance due to high sediment deposition. The water clarity is not crystal-clear or pristine, but rather hazy and cloudy. The shoreline offers a natural scenery with surrounding vegetation, but the water quality issues, such as failing to meet water quality standards less than 60% of the time, impact its overall aesthetic. The color tends to be more brownish or tea-colored rather than azure, turquoise, or emerald.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Boating

Islands

Amid the sprawling waters of a serene lake, a cluster of captivating islands awaits the adventurous spirit. These uninhabited gems are rich in history, once serving as crucial navigation points for early settlers. Today, they entice visitors with their tranquil hiking trails and breathtaking lookouts, perfect for capturing the sunset over the shimmering waters. A day spent exploring these islands reveals remnants of past structures, whispering stories of the generations that have wandered here. Birdwatchers find solace in the diverse avian life, while picnicking families enjoy shaded spots beneath sprawling trees. The islands also offer unrivaled views of the Oklahoma skyline, providing the perfect backdrop for stunning photographs. This unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities transforms these serene isles into a hidden paradise, inviting travelers to escape the mundane and embrace the extraordinary.

Nearby amenities

For a fulfilling visit, Lake Hefner offers a variety of amenities. Start with water activities; the Hefner Marina provides boat rentals, jet ski rentals, and a convenient boat ramp for easy lake access. You’ll find a public dock, mooring buoys, and even a gas station for your boating needs. Nearby, the Lake Hefner Fishing Pier is ideal for anglers wanting to catch fish. Dining options include the lakefront restaurant, Peaks Bar & Grille, perfect for a meal with a view or a refreshing drink. For those needing supplies, the nearby Walmart Supercenter and academy sports offer all essentials. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore scenic hiking and biking trails that wind around the lake, while designated picnic areas with BBQ grills provide an excellent spot for gatherings. Facilities include clean restrooms and accessible paths for all visitors. For overnight stays, the nearby camping sites border the lake, making it easy to enjoy stargazing after a day filled with activities. Plan your day to experience everything this vibrant area has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  • No, swimming is not allowed in Lake Hefner. This rule applies to all city lakes, and other water activities like boating, fishing, and paddleboarding are permitted instead.

  • Lake Hefner is a popular destination because of its diverse recreational activities. It offers a 9.4-mile trail for biking, running, and walking, as well as opportunities for kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing. The lake also features scenic parks, a iconic lighthouse, and stunning natural beauty with breathtaking sunsets.

  • Snagging is prohibited in Lake Hefner, Oklahoma. This rule applies to Lake Hefner as well as other specified lakes in the area, including tailwaters and certain downstream areas. This restriction is part of the local fishing regulations to ensure sustainable fishing practices.

  • There are no public beaches at Lake Hefner. Swimming is not permitted at the lake. Instead, visitors can enjoy other activities like fishing, boating, and walking or biking around the lake.

  • Lake Hefner is located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Nearby towns include Del City, Midwest City, The Village, Warr Acres, Bethany, Moore, Edmond, and Mustang. These towns are all part of the larger Oklahoma City metropolitan area.