Murray County, Oklahoma – Veterans Lake

Veterans Lake was built in 1933, and became part of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area (CNRA) in 1983. The Lake is part of the Platt Historic District. The District was named Platt National Park in 1906, and was one of the nation's earliest national parks. The 67-acre lake was named in honor of American war veterans. Veterans Lake offers excellent opportunities for small boat use, fishing, hiking and picnicking. The lake offers 2.8 miles of shoreline with a paved handicapped accessible trail, along with a boat ramp, boat dock, and fishing dock. There are also picnic areas, grills, restrooms, and a group shelter. The Lake's “loop trail,” called Veterans Trail, is suitable for biking and hiking, and is the only paved trail in the Lake area. Veterans Lake Pavilion overlooks the north side of Veterans Lake, with an ideal view of colorful sunsets reflected in the lake. Veterans Lake, a no-wake lake, is an ideal campground for water sports like kayaking, and canoeing. Adjacent campsites are easily accessible and situated close to several hiking trails. The hours of operation are 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. from Labor Day to Memorial Day, and 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day. There is no fee for entrance to the CNRA, but campground fees, boat launch fees, and daily Pavilion reservation fees are charged.