Keystone Lake
Keystone Lake
Keystone Lake
Keystone Lake

Keystone Lake Recreation

Fishing and Hunting

Fish and wildlife resources at Keystone Lake provide a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities.  Known locally as "The new home of the striped bass," a new generation of fishermen have surfaced at Keystone.  Fisheries biologists believe that with the initial stocking and natural spawns over the past several years, 40+ pounders are lurking somewhere out there.  White bass, black bass, crappie (especially good) and catfish are also in abundance and provide many visitors with excellent table fare.

With approximately 17,000 acres open for public hunting, no sportsman is left out.  White-tailed deer, bobwhite quail, mourning dove, ducks, geese, cottontail rabbit, and squirrel are among the principal game species.

Public hunting area maps are available from the Keystone Project Office or online.

Camping and Picnicking

Numerous parks have been developed and are maintained by the Corps of Engineers for public use. Local cities (Cleveland, Mannford) and Oklahoma State Parks also maintain recreation areas around the lake. These recreation areas vary with the following amenities: campsites with electrical and water hook-ups, primitive campsites, picnic areas with charcoal grills, restrooms, boat launching ramps with courtesy docks, and more.

Boating

Boating on the lake is in accordance with Oklahoma boating laws and Corps of Engineers regulations. Rules and regulations governing operational requirements of boats may be obtained from the Keystone Project Office near the dam. Operate your boat in a controlled, safe manner at all times.

Swimming

Swim and wade only where you are familiar with the water depths and the bottom. Never swim alone. There's safety in numbers. Be careful of overestimating your swimming ability as water distances are deceiving.  Watch children closely.  Swimmers should avoid regular boat channels, launching ramps, and docks.  Everyone should wear a personal flotation device when swimming, boating, or even if they are near water.

Trails

Washington Irving Scenic Nature Trail begins on the northern end of Washington Irving South Public Use Area and winds nearly a mile along sandstone bluffs dotted with gnarled cedars. Never far from the shoreline, the trail meanders in and out of wooded areas and passes through rock formations.  Along the route may be seen the evidence that beavers have been at work cutting saplings for food and shelter.

Two Rivers Scenic Nature Trail begins on the northwest end of the Keystone Dam and meanders over a mile near the shoreline.  The trail offers panoramic views of Keystone Lake and is often used by fishermen.  Similar to Washington Irving Trail this trail passes through heavily wooded areas.  While hiking numerous bird species may be observed.