A Photo Guide to Arcadia Lake

Arcadia Lake is just east of Edmond in the Oklahoma City metro area. A Corps lake, Arcadia Lake opened in 1987 and serves as a water supply for Edmond as well as flood control for the Deep Fork River Basin. It is one of the best spots in central Oklahoma for outdoor recreation and is extremely popular for camping, picnicking, fishing, skiing, and hiking. Plus, unlike metro lakes such as Hefner, Overholser, and Draper, Arcadia allows swimming. The Arcadia Lake dam (above) runs along the northeast side of the lake and is visible from Route 66 as you travel east of Edmond. It is one small part of a lake that encompasses 1820 acres, with 26 miles of shoreline. 

Arcadia Lake has multiple entrance points and park areas, including two along Route 66 east of Edmond and north of the lake. It stretches as far south as I-44 (the Turner Turnpike) and has other entrance points for campgrounds, pavilions, and other lake areas along Edmond's 15th Street, east of I-35.

One of Arcadia Lake's great strengths is the picturesque view. With the shores covered in trees, the lake in Arcadia is one of the more beautiful bodies of water in the Oklahoma City metro area. With a surface area of 1,820 acres, it features a number of small coves and inlets, but also a large open middle for boating and recreation. 

Arcadia Lake's campsites include several "primitive" areas. Primitive campsites don't include any water or electrical service, while other campsites feature hookups and community water. 

Arcadia Lake campsites include fire rings, picnic tables, and charcoal grills. Full hook-up sites are also available with electric, water, and sewage connections. There are limits of two sleeping units, two vehicles, and 10 people per site. 

Arcadia Lake features more than 140 campsites, some of which are right along the water.

Arcadia Lake has a number of play areas for kids. The playgrounds include elaborate climbing structures, swings, and toys for the younger children. In addition, these are popular areas for picnicking. Also, check out the pavilions with grills, tables, electric, and lights. 

Though trotlines and jug lines are not allowed at Arcadia Lake, it is a popular area for fishing. According to lake officials, there is an abundant amount of largemouth and striped bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. 

Arcadia Lake is actually one of the few major lakes in the Oklahoma City metro area to allow swimming. Open from sunrise to sundown, there are a couple of large swimming beaches with a roped-off area designated for swimmers. 

Fish from the shore, a boat, the dam, or one one of the Arcadia Lake fishing docks. In addition to fishing docks such as the one pictured above, Arcadia features a heated, covered fishing dock as well.

Launch from one of several Arcadia Lake boat ramps, and enjoy boating, jet-skiing, or water skiing (in designated areas). Make sure you purchase a boating permit before launching on one of the many Arcadia Lake Boat Ramps. Fees are slightly lower on weekdays and during the off-season, and there are discounts for military and senior citizens. 

Take classes and benefit from the knowledge of professionals at UCO's recreational center. A part of the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond, the Center for Outdoor Adventure Recreation is located on the north side of Arcadia Lake. In addition to providing classes, the center allows visitors to enjoy activities such as outdoor archery, canoe, kayak, rowing, and hiking.

Play volleyball or just set up your lounge chairs and take in the beautiful water views and on Arcadia Lake's beaches.

Walk, run, or bike along one of Arcadia Lake's trails. The area features 13 miles of multi-use, scenic trails. Like other recreational activities at the lake, a fee is required to use the trails, but visitors are allowed to walk, run, bike, and even ride horses. 

The kids will love the various Arcadia Lake play areas. There's something for kids of all ages at the lake in Arcadia. 

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beauty of Oklahoma's Arcadia Lake. 

This image gallery includes photos taken on the campsites, playgrounds, boat ramps, swimming beaches, and the dam around the lake in Arcadia. See more information about the area in the Arcadia Lake profile.