Most tourists are reeling about one thing – fishing. Fishing tournaments are held every year, and fishermen come from all around to compete for bragging rights at Oklahoma’s biggest lake. Fishing at Lake Eufaula is a year-round sport, and some marinas have enclosed, heated docks for fishing in comfort during winter. Bait and fishing supplies are available at the marinas and at more stores in the area. Fish that can be found in Lake Eufaula include white bass, catfish, crappie and striper, among others.
Lake Eufaula also has shoreline activities for those not feeling adventurous on the water. Many different species of wildlife call the Eufaula area their home, and can often be seen in their natural habitat. The nature center in the Eufaula State Park is a notable place to learn about these animals.
Miles of hiking, biking, equestrian and ATV riding trails can be explored around Lake Eufaula. In the 31,800 acres of public hunting areas near the lake, wildlife can be found. Also, the Lake Eufaula State Park and the Arrowhead Area at Lake Eufaula State Park both offer beautiful 18-hole golf courses.
Tourists can also enjoy playgrounds for children and swimming beaches along the shores of Lake Eufaula. Pets are allowed at the parks, and admission is free to the lake. A favored place to eat for tourists after some time out on the lake is Boom A Rang and Braum’s.
Boom A Rang is 50s-style diner chain for American cuisine serving burgers and chicken-fried steak, plus breakfast fare if tourists are early risers. Sara Monas, a recent Lake Eufaula tourist, said, “Boom A Rang is a great place to experience the hospitality of the Oklahomans who call this lake their home as well as a decade swap to the 50s.”
Another more local spot for tourists to visit is Braum’s Ice Cream shop. Braum’s is known all over Oklahoma for the freshest ice cream in the hot state, but one Eufaula resident swears Lake Eufaula’s is the best Braum’s in Oklahoma. “I might have convinced my wife to move to Lake Eufaula when I retired just because their Braum’s is unlike the other ones,” said military veteran John Mason. “Maybe it has something to do with a hot day, ice cream and a lake… who knows? I’m a child at heart, and living here is like being at summer camp all year long.”
The history of the lake is interesting. Ellen Gallagher, a member of several of the lake’s associations, like Lake Eufaula Home Owner’s Association, is well versed in the lake’s history and its environmental impact. “Part of the reason my mom, a single mother, moved to Lake Eufaula is the hydroelectric power it provides to the city,” she said. “I mean my entire home is powered by this dam, and I couldn’t be more grateful to my mother for wanting to raise her family here. I am continuing to raise my family here and run our little bait shop for tourists so they can see the beauty we see.”