Enjoy the great outdoors at Lake Hefner
Oklahoma City may be right smack dab in the middle of the country, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it is void of any large bodies of water suited for recreational activities on water or on land. In fact, there are several, with Lake Hefner being one of them.
Situated on the northwest side of the city, visitors to Lake Hefner will experience a beautiful oasis in an urban environment covering 2,500 acres with 18 miles of shoreline. You can always find people of all ages enjoying what Lake Hefner has to offer, regardless of the season.
The spring and summer months are arguably the best times to visit Lake Hefner. During the spring, for instance, when the Oklahoma winds are typically at their strongest, you will find many sailboats skimming across the water. Lake Hefner provides an ideal spot for people who love to harness the power of the wind. You may also witness thrill seekers on Lake Hefner engaged in windsurfing, a water sport that combines sailing and surfing, and kitesurfing, which uses a large power kite to pull a rider across the waves.
There are also other popular water activities commonly seen on Lake Hefner, including boating and fishing (with proper permits), kayaking and paddle boarding. Swimming, water skiing and jet skiing are not allowed on Lake Hefner, however. If you prefer to remain on dry ground, Lake Hefner also features numerous other spots to spend some time with family and friends, or just by yourself enjoying nature.
There are more than nine miles of paved trails surrounding Lake Hefner where you can run, walk, or bike. If you are into roller blading, roller skating or skateboarding, you can even do that as well! On the south side of the lake sits Lake Hefner Golf Club, a city-owned golf course featuring 36 holes and dotted with water hazards, bunkered fairways and greens. Immediately north of Lake Hefner is Bluff Creek, which includes an off-road biking and hiking trail, exercise equipment, playground area and large shelter for picnics and other gatherings.
Participating in all of these activities can certainly make a person hungry. Don’t worry. Lake Hefner is home to several lakeside dining spots where you can fill up! Located on the East Warf there are restaurants featuring seafood, Mexican food and other southwestern flavors, as well as American classics. When you finish eating, take a short stroll over to the lake’s iconic lighthouse and take a selfie or two with your friends or significant other.
No matter if it’s winter, spring, summer or fall, there is always plenty to do and enjoy at Lake Hefner. To learn more about Lake Hefner and other Oklahoma City lakes, check out the websites for Visit Oklahoma City and the City of Oklahoma City.
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