Kaw Lake is located in north central Oklahoma, approximately 8 miles east of Ponca City, Oklahoma, on the Arkansas River. Project land extends northward into Kansas, ending near Arkansas City. The lake covers 17,000 surface acres and has 168 miles of shoreline at the normal elevation of 1010.00 feet above sea level. Gr
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact (580) 762-5611
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Kaw Lake — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Kaw Lake?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Kaw Lake. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Kaw Lake?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — hiking is one of the listed activities at Kaw Lake.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Kaw Lake. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Depends Can you ride OHVs or ATVs here?
Yes — off-highway vehicle use is among the activities here. Stay on designated routes and check any permit or registration rules.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Nearby sites
Birch Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Hulah Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
