Sunrise over the water at Grand Lake State Park – Bernice Area. Photo: Park Facebook Page
Also known as the Bernice State Park, this enchanting public recreational space comprises just 88-acres.
However it is chock full of highlights including a stunning lake and the spectacular 13,000-acre Spavinaw Hills Game Management Area, which makes it a haven for those who love the great outdoors.
Located on the northwest portion of Grand Lake, this Oklahoma park is just an hour and 15 minute drive from Tulsa, while the Oklahoma City is just 2 hours and 45 minutes away.
From both destinations the park can easily be visited as a day trip destination. However, it also offers plenty of camping options, which range from primitive tent sites to RV sites with full hookups, for those who want to stay a few nights.
Activities
Whether your passion is swimming, fishing or boating. Or if you prefer hiking, wildlife watching or exploring nature. The Bernice Area at Grand Lake State Park also offers something for everyone.
Boating at the Bernice Area at Grand Lake All Areas State Park
As it has a surface area that exceeds 45,000 acres the lake is a noted spot for boating and water sports activities.
This includes everything from pontoon boating, kayaking, SUP or canoeing to jet skiing and water skiing.
You’ll find two boat ramps around the beautiful lake to launch off.
Swimming at the Bernice Area at Grand Lake All Areas State Park
During the summer months it can get quite hot at the park, which is why many people choose to swim in the cooling waters of the lake.
There is a designated swimming area here, but it is not patrolled by lifeguards, so if you do go for a dip it pays to be careful.
Hiking at the Bernice Area at Grand Lake All Areas State Park
At the Grand Lake All Areas State Park there is a nature trail that will guide you along the picturesque fringes of the lake.
As a lot of this trail is paved, it is handicap accessible in parts. There are also several benches to sit on along the way.
All up, the 2.7 km out-and-back-trail should take you about 30 minutes to complete.
Fishing at the Bernice Area at Grand Lake All Areas State Park
The Grand Lake All Areas State Park is a fisherman’s haven.
Enjoying a reputation for being the ‘crappie capital of the world’, this 13,000-acre lake also provides options to catch a wide range of other fish. This includes the likes of sunfish, largemouth and white bass, channel catfish, and bluegill.
They can be caught from the shoreline or on a boat, and many anglers from across America come here every year to do just that.
Picnicking at the Bernice Area at Grand Lake All Areas State Park
Picnicking is a favored activity for many visitors to Grand Lake All Areas State Park.
There are several picnic tables situated throughout scenic parts of the park, which all make lovely spots for al fresco dining.
Some of these tables also have grills that you can use to cook up your food.
Should you want to eat in a big group, there is a large group picnic shelter located just to the north of the campground.
Nature & Wildlife
If you are into exploring nature and wildlife watching then the Grand Lake All Areas State Park offers plenty of opportunities for you to do so.
Throughout the park, there are several locations to observe various wildlife habitats. There is also a nature center which is designed to be an informational resource about the different species you find in the park and how best to preserve them.
Supporting the nature center, there are also a couple of wildlife observation towers that enable you to view wildlife that reside across the 13,000-acre Spavinaw Hills Game Management Area. So be sure to bring your binoculars.
Some of the animals you might see from this lofted position include migratory waterfowl, like egrets and pelicans.
Pets at the Bernice Area at Grand Lake All Areas State Park
Pets are welcome to join you at the park, however there are restrictions.
It is worth contacting the main park office to confirm what they are.
Camping at the Bernice Area at Grand Lake All Areas State Park
For those wanting to spend a few days at the Grand Lake All Areas State Park there are plenty of overnight accommodation options available to them.
This includes 33 RV campsites that all offer water and 50 amp electric hookups, as well as over 150 primitive campsites for tents.
Within easy walking distance of the campground you will find a range of amenities designed to enhance the comfort of your stay.
Towards the northern part of the campground there are a couple of restrooms, a dump station and two children’s playgrounds. You’ll also find the nature center there as well as a group picnic area.
At the western end of the campground lies the fishing pier and a brace of boat ramps.
All campsites at Bernice State Park are available for reservation, however walk-ins are accepted and welcomed so long as availability is there.
Amenities at the Bernice Area at Grand Lake All Areas State Park
Amenities at the Grand Lake All Areas State Park include restrooms with showers, a dump station and a children’s playground.
The park also has handicapped parking available too.
Park Location
Grand Lake All Areas State Park
54101 E Hwy 85 A
Bernice, OK 74331
Phone: 918.257.8330
Map
Video
Below is a brief YouTube video showcasing different things to do at Grand Lake All Areas State Park:
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