The Greater
TENKILLER AREA 2024 Official Visitor Guide
LAKE TENKILLER • UPPER & LOWER ILLINOIS RIVER
NEW INDOOR DINING THIS SEASON
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LAKETENKILLER.COM
918-457-4403
@TENKILLERAREA
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GREATER TENKILLER AREA ASSOCIATION We are a multi-county tourism organization, instrumental in marketing the Lake Tenkiller Area and its destination partners. In addition to this strategy, we strive to promote recreation, economic development, and tourism. Our partners are local businesses, area attractions, surrounding towns and the stakeholders who share our passion for tourism in the area. We give the Greater Tenkiller Area a seat at the table on decisions affecting the Lakes and Rivers.
It’s the soft sound of a Native flute. The focus of a potter shaping clay. Traditions shared by living masters.
P.O. Box 339 • Vian, OK 74962
@TenkillerArea
A NATION OF CULTURE
CONTENTS
GTAA BOARD KENYATTA WRIGHT .............. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOHN ELLIS ..................................................... PRESIDENT GENA MCPHAIL .................................. VICE PRESIDENT GENNY MAIDEN ........................................ SECRETARY/ TREASURER DIANE RUTLAND JAMES THORNTON KAREN YOUNG STAN WEED COVER PHOTOGRAPHY ALEX MCBRIDE STAN WEED The Greater Tenkiller Area Visitor Guide is the official publication of the Greater Tenkiller Area Association. For information about the Greater Tenkiller Area, call or write: MEMBERS ED BROCKSMITH GEORGE HARRIS TIM KNIGHT RON POMEROY
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MARINAS & RESORTS ............................................................................................................ 2 WELCOME TO TENKILLER .................................................................................................... 8 LAKE TENKILLER MAP .......................................................................................................... 10 TENKILLER PARK ..................................................................................................................... 12 DIVE TENKILLER ...................................................................................................................... 14 WATER SAFETY ....................................................................................................................... 16 CAMPING .................................................................................................................................. 18 FISHING ..................................................................................................................................... 20 UPPER ILLINOIS RIVER MAP ............................................................................................ 22 GORE & LOWER ILLINOIS RIVER ................................................................................... 24 WELCOME TO CHEROKEE CO. ...................................................................................... 30 THINGS TO SEE & DO .......................................................................................................... 31 NATURE, HIKING & WILDLIFE .......................................................................................... 36 ARKANSAS RIVER ................................................................................................................. 40 LAKE COMMUNITIES ............................................................................................................ 41 RELOCATION & RETIREMENT .......................................................................................... 42 MEMBER DIRECTORY .......................................................................................................... 43
It’s an electric arc of talent that keeps us on our toes. Our legends on silver screens, in galleries, at stickball fields and podiums. It’s here.
ONE NATION. ENDLESS ADVENTURE.
Greater Tenkiller Area Association P.O. Box 339,
Vian, OK 74427 918-457-4403 or visit: www.LakeTenkiller.com
Produced in cooperation with the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. 50,000 copies were printed. For more information about Oklahoma’s tourism products, log on to TravelOk.com or call 1-800-652-6552.
VIEW ONLINE An interactive digital version of this guide and other Tenkiller Area attractions can be found online: LakeTenkiller.com • TravelOK.com
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LAKETENKILLER.COM 918-457-4403
WELCOME TO LAKE TENKILLER Where Tradition & Culture Meet Hospitality Named after the Tenkillers, a prominent Cherokee family, who operated a ferry service near where the dam now stands, Lake Tenkiller is Oklahoma’s only clear water paradise. The nearly 13,000 acres of clear waters, and 130 miles of scenic shoreline with rocky banks and rock bluffs above and below the water, provide a great variety of scenic beauty, as well as opportunities for water sports activities and recreation.
Tenkiller Lake has 10 marinas and 20 parks managed by the State of Oklahoma Corps of Engineers, with all levels of campsites available. There are 24 boat ramps around the lake and rental boats for fun and adventure are available at most marinas and two state parks. Visitors can find excellent lodging and dining at the many resorts, rental homes, cabins, lodges, restaurants, and bed & breakfasts around the lake. For dining pleasure, there are floating restaurants, as well as a variety of excellent land- based restaurants in the communities surrounding the lake and river - all happy to serve with a smile.
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Marinas Amenities
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Barnacle Bill’s Marina
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Bluewater Bay Marina
918.489.5735
Burnt Cabin Marina
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Tenkiller Lake There is something for everyone in the Greater Tenkiller Area. From the natural beauty of the outdoors to theatre and gourmet dining, you will find The Greater Tenkiller Area provides the very best recreation around!
Caney Ridge Marina
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Cookson Bend Marina
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Elk Creek Marina
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Sixshooter Marina
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Snake Creek Marina
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Strayhorn Marina
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CAMPING AREAS & SITE NUMBERS 10
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MAJOR ROADS RIVERS LAKES MINOR ROADS
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Accommodations
BURNT CABIN RESORT - THE TIMBERS CANEY RIDGE MARINA CHICKEN CREEK HEN HOUSE RETREAT CHICKEN CREEK STORE COOKSON BEND MARINA COOKSON VILLAGE DECK & GALLEY FIN & FEATHER RESORT FOREST VIEW CABINS GREEN LEAF STATE PARK MARVAL FAMILY RESORT SIXSHOOTER RESORT SUNDOWN CABINS SUNDOWN COTTAGE TENKILLER LODGE TENKILLER STATE PARK TERRAPIN PEAK BED BREAKFAST & BEYOND
TENKILLER STATE PARK Heaven in the Hills The sparkling blue waters of Tenkiller Lake offer water enthusiasts an abundance of recreational opportunities including
CONTACT TENKILLER PARK PHONE: 918-776-8180 EMAIL: TenkillerCabins@TravelOK.com NATURE CENTER: Leann.Bunn@TravelOK.com
water skiing, fishing, boating, tubing and scuba diving. Guests may choose from 39 cabins ranging from one to three bedrooms. All cabins, except for two three bedrooms, are duplexes. Cabins have linens, full kitchens, plus heat and air. The park also offers RV and tent campsites, as well as restrooms and showers.
The 18 hole flying disc golf course is open year round. The park’s Pine Cove Marina offers fuel, gifts, sportswear, snacks, repairs and boat slip rentals, pontoon rentals as well as featuring the floating Clearwater Cafe. The underwater scuba diving park features underwater attractions ranging from a completely submerged school bus, various sunken boats, aircraft fuselage and more. All reservations for camping and cabins are now on TravelOK.com/Tenkiller.
FACILITIES INCLUDE:
DRIVING DIRECTIONS DRIVING EAST ON 1-40 Take Exit 287 Follow Highway 100 north through Gore to the park. DRIVING WEST ON 1-40 Take Exit 297. Go 10 miles north on State Highway 82 to State Highway 100 then three miles south to the park.
• Lake and river view • Splash Pad • Outdoor swimming pool • Pets allowed • Restaurant on site (seasonal)
• Fishing In lake and trout-stocked streams. • Water skiing • Scuba diving and scuba dive park • Marina • Amphitheater • Naturalist • Two swim beaches • Picnic shelters • Playgrounds • Volleyball and basketball courts • Hiking and nature trails • Hayrides and campfire programs
• Senior discount • Military discount • Credit cards accepted • 1,190 acres of park • Nature center • Nearly 13,000 acres of lake • Tenkiller Ferry Dam Oklahoma’s second tallest at 97 feet • 39 cabins, some with fireplaces • 10 camping areas with 240 campsites
• Assigned campground • Community building • Boating
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The Tenkiller Scuba Park is the main attraction for scuba divers at Tenkiller State Park. Featuring a multitude of sunken vessels, artifacts, monuments, treasures, trinkets, and lots of fish. The dive park is one of the best dive sites found in Lake Tenkiller. From boats, a bus, a plane, and even a United States Coast Guard helicopter; divers can explore and even swim through the attractions providing a diving experience similar to wreck diving. Established in 2005, Tim Knight, of Nautical Adventures Scuba, worked closely with the Army Corps of Engineers and Tenkiller State Park to provide an attraction for scuba divers to experience the joy of lake diving. SCUBA PARK
BLUFF VIEW
South of the Dive Park is an area accessible by the Bluff View picnic and camping areas. This location has been a popular training area for Open Water students from around the tri state area. Divers can follow the rocky slopes from one training platform to another before reaching spectacular bluffs near Crappie Point. The bluffs span an area larger than 50 feet across with overhangs as deep as 20 feet. See if you can find the infamous ”Buddy Phone” and don’t forget to ring the bell on your way out .
Located across the channel from Fisherman’s Point, Hickory Flats offers a dive experience much different from the other two locations. Here divers can find a gradual slope and patchy areas of white sand sprinkled amongst the rocky floor. The main attraction at Hickory Flats are the massive boulders that create small canyons, creating the perfect hiding places for flathead catfish. Tenkiller has something for everyone! HICKORY FLATS
Lake Tenkiller has been Oklahoma’s most popular scuba diving destination since the lake was established in 1954. The clear water and diversity of terrain attracts divers from not only Oklahoma, but the surrounding states and visitors from around the country. While most divers may discover its diversity during scuba certification courses, the attraction for certified divers includes wall dives, multiple islands, and the unknown allure of history! Lake Tenkiller offers three full-service scuba facilities that offer everything divers need to discover the depths and history, including rental equipment, certification courses, guided dives, and air fills. Tenkiller State Park is a popular destination featuring three locations to explore that offer simple shore entries.
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US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
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With two state parks and a host of campgrounds that are privately owned or managed by the U.S. Corps of Engineers, there is room for everyone with a range of facilities from RV hookups to the most primitive settings.
The PARKS have boat ramps, bathrooms equipped with showers, picnic shelters and tables, drinking fountains, swimming areas, playgrounds and grills. GROUP CAMPING AREAS are plentiful, and packages may be arranged by calling any of the state parks or privately-owned businesses. Special programs also are available through Tenkiller State Park’s Nature Center. All LAKE SWIMMING AREAS are protected from boats with buoy safety markers, and most camping grounds are patrolled 24 hours a day by the State Park Rangers, Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Commission Rangers and the Corps of Engineers. There are several FREE PUBLIC ACCESS AREAS along the Upper Illinois River. Campsites for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers parks and recreation areas can be reserved by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Camping Facilities
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BARNACLE BILLS BURNT CABIN CANEY RIDGE CARTER’S LANDING CATO CREEK LANDING CHEROKEE LANDING CHICKEN CREEK COOKSON BEND DAMSITE & OVERLOOK ELK CREEK LANDING PETTIT BAY SIXSHOOTER SIZEMORE LANDING SNAKE CREEK STANDING ROCK STRAYHORN LANDING TENKILLER STATE PARK
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CORPS OF ENGINEERS
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Individual campsites may be reserved 240 days in advance, while group facilities may be reserved 360 days in advance. Reservations are not required but are recommended for holidays and peak season. For information on all privately-owned campsites, call the Greater Tenkiller Area Association at 1-888-867-4403 or 918-457-4403.
STATE OF OKLAHOMA PRIVATE
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CAUGHT IN THE LOWER ILLINOIS RIVER
RAINBOW TROUT ........... 11 lbs 4 oz PAUL GLOVER • APR. 4, 2015 AMERICAN EEL .................. 5 lbs 8 oz BILLY DAVISON • AUG. 15, 2002 STRIPED BASS ................. 47 lbs 8 oz CHESTER PENN • JUN. 30, 1984 BLACK BUFFALO ........... 57 lbs 12 oz REDHORSE RIVER ........... 10 lbs 9 oz LEWIS PARKER • JUN.. 10, 1996
CARL WILLIAMS • MAR. 17, 2010
Children CAN GET INTO THE ACTION TOO!
Eastern Oklahoma is one of the most diverse fishing regions in America. Around Lake Tenkiller you’ll find what you’d expect: prime largemouth bass fishing lakes, as well as some pleasant surprises, like trout fishing and exceptional smallmouth bass fishing in the Illinois River. Add catfish, white bass, striped bass, crappie and carp into the mix, and you get the picture.
MILES OF SHORELINE Tenkiller Lake offers many secluded spots to spend the day watching your pole in the water. 130
Help them hone their fishing skills on the easy waters of Lake Tenkiller. Bass, crappie and carp in these waters draw families as well as seasoned fishermen.
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PUBLIC ACCESS AREAS
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Peavine Hollow Public Access Area Round Hollow Public Access Area Stunkard Public Access Area
Boy Scout Hole Carne’s Ford (Low Water Slab) Chewey Bridge City-Riverside Park Echota Public Access Area Edmondson Public Access Area Eldon Bridge Lake Frances Dam Access No Head Hollow Public Access Area
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Todd Public Access Area US 59 Illinois River Bridge US 62 Public Access Area US 412 Flint Creek Bridge Welling Bridge Wolf Springs
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SILOAM SPRINGS
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Possession of an open container, or consumption of alcohol (including spirits, wine, beer and light or 3.2 beer) is prohibited in the following public access areas: Round Hollow 12 Todd 14 US 62 16 US 59 15 Lake Frances Dam 8
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RESORTS & FLOAT OPERATORS All American Floats Arrowhead Resort Diamondhead Resort Eagle Blu Resort Illinois River Outfitters Peyton’s Place Resort Riverbend by the Bridge 1 2 3 4 10 11 12 13
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C Fun & Adventure UPPER ILLINOIS RIVER E. 640 RD. 82A 82A 82C 650 10 10 Ever since legislation designated the Illinois River as a scenic river, it has offered visitors an opportunity for fun, adventure and beauty. The clear waters meander through the Ozark hills and provide visitors views of oak JT N ICK E L FA M ILY NATURE & W I LDL I FE P RE S ER V E 6 10 2 4 9 11 12 14 11 12 15 18 7 8 3 10
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Riverbend Floats Riverside Resort
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Echota Village Falcon Floats Flint Creek Water Park Flint Ridge RV Park Hanging Rock Camp
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Rock-A-Way Lodge Sparrow Hawk Camp Town Branch Guest Ranch War Eagle Resort
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CONVENIENCE STORES
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Flint Creek Convenience Store
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MEMBERS ONLY
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Illinois River Ranch Illinois River Village New Life Ranch Northeastern Outing Club Sparrowhawk Village Sequoyah Outing Club Wauhillau Outing Club
Camp Fred Darby Boy Scout Club Camp Lutherhoma Egan Camp & Retreat Center Fidler’s Bend Village
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10 and elm and the occasional hickory and cedar. The majority of the river is easy going, allowing its
Flint Ridge Resort Heart of the Hills Salvation Army Camp
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62 floaters to relax and enjoy the high bluffs, rocky islands and a medley of wildlife. There are many outfitters along the river that provide canoes, kayaks or rafts. Many of them offer group discounts and lodging. You also can bring your own kayak, canoe or raft and put in at any of the public access points. It is required that you have a User Fee Decal on your boat, which may be purchased at the Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Commission. Canoeing, kayaking or rafting the Illinois River is 62 TAHLEQUAH 4 7 13 15 18 5 5 6 13 12 1 16 17 not dangerous, but observe all of the safety precautions, wear lifejackets and make yourself aware of the flow and level of the river. 2 3 6 13 51
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RIVER MILEAGE PUBLIC ACCESS AREAS SHOWN IN BLUE 0.0..............................................State Line 2.7 .............................. Lake Frances Dam 3.1 ........................... US 59 Bridge Access 10.4 ............ Carnes Ford Public Access* 16.2............Flint Creek joins Illinois River 16.3........................................Fidler’s Bend 23.6..................................Chewey Bridge 27.5..................................Riverside Camp 27.7 ............ Round Hollow Public Access 28.0 .................. Stunkard Public Access 32.2.......................Hanging Rock Camp 32.4 .................... Peavine Public Access 32.5.............................Arrowhead Resort 36.1.....................................Combs Bridge 36.2 .............. Edmondson Public Access 36.5..............................Eagle Blu Resort 36.8....................................Peyton’s Place 39.8 ..............................War Eagle Resort 39.9............................................... Riverville 40.0.....................Diamondhead Resort 40.0.....................Illinois River Outfitters 41.5 ....... No Head Hollow Public Access 47.0 ........................... Todd Public Access 50.0................Elephant Rock Outfitters 52.2......................Sparrow Hawk Camp 53.2 ....................... Echota Public Access 53.3................................... Echota Village 53.4.....................................Falcon Floats 55.0...........................All American Floats 55.1 ..................... Highway 51/62 Bridge 55.3 ......... Riverside Park Public Access 59.3..............Town Branch Guest Ranch 59.3......Town Branch Joins Illinois River 62.0 ... Murrell Home Rd. Public Access 62.5... Barren Fork Creek joins Illinois River 65.6................................Horseshoe Bend 68.5...............................Carter’s Landing Tenkiller Headwaters & Reservoir *DANGEROUS DURING HIGH WATERS
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HIGHWAYS & MAJOR ROADS STATE HIGHWAYS MINOR ROADS STATE BOUNDARY RIVER/STREAM LAKE/POND JT NICKEL FAMILY NATURE & WILDLIFE PRESERVE ILLINOIS RIVER FIRE STATION GRAND RIVER DAM AUTHORITY
HIGHWAYS & MAJOR ROADS STATE HIGHWAYS MINOR ROADS STATE BOUNDARY RIVER/STREAM LAKE/POND JT NICKEL FAMILY NATURE & WILDLIFE PRESERVE ILLINOIS RIVER FIRE STATION GRAND RIVER DAM AUTHORITY
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12 Fishermen enjoy largemouth and small-mouth bass, channel and flathead catfish, walleye and various sunfishes. There are more than 70 species, with a few seasonal varieties. There are a few classes available for fly-fishing, lure tying and guided fishing trips. 23 @TENKILLERAREA LAKE TENKILLER 1 1
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Year-round trout fishing and record breaking catches have given Gore the right to lay claim to the title of “Trout Capital of Oklahoma.” To check out the Gore claim and enjoy the outdoors while experiencing some terrific fishing, Marval Resort on the Lower Illinois River is the place.
Lower Illinois River Access
TROUT STREAM RIVER ROAD ACCESS MARVAL TROUT CAMPGROUND MOONSHINE TROUT PARK GORE LANDING
OPERATED BY:
STATE OF OKLAHOMA CITY US GOVERNMENT PRIVATE
GORE RAY FINE PARK SUMMERS LANDING
Marval Resort offers, in addition to the excellent trout fishing, tent camping, RV hookups, a heated pool, nine hole mini-golf course, volleyball court, game room, snack bar and a nature trail. Deluxe cabins also are available. Marval has a clubhouse with a full kitchen that seats up to 100. Great for family reunions, groups and weddings. The 12-mile stretch of the Lower Illinois River is stocked with 100,000 rainbow trout annually at three sites - Marval Resort, Tenkiller Power House and River Road Access Area. Trout tournaments are held three times a year at Marval Resort and the river is heavily stocked with lunker-class trout for these events. Water releases from Tenkiller Dam bring white bass on their spawning run in the spring and striped bass all year. The Lower Illinois River is known for striped bass with a 47-pound, 8-ounce record fish. Catfish can also be found in deep holes along the river.
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is proudly serving Lake Tenkiller and surrounding areas!
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THE CHEROKEE ARTS CENTER The Cherokee Arts Center offers artists a place to meet, share their knowledge and learn new techniques. The creative space can be used for a variety of artistic mediums such as metal smithing, pottery, loom weaving, painting, basket weaving and more. The retail gallery is available to Cherokee artists to have a venue to show and sell their work.
@TENKILLERAREA
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Things to See & Do
SPIDER GALLERY The Spider Gallery displays art by more than 50 Cherokee artists from eight area counties, as well as Alabama, New Mexico and Texas.The works range from traditional pottery, jewelry and paintings to contemporary assemblage sculptures. Cherokee County
THE THOMPSON HOUSE The Thompson House is one of nearly 20 properties in and around Tahlequah listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The house was built in 1882 by Johnson Thompson, and the two-story house’s architectural style is Queen Anne Carpenter Gothic with Eastlake style interior woodwork.
THE HUNTER’S HOME George Murrell built this home in the new
JOHN ROSS MUSEUM The John Ross Museum highlights the life of John Ross, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation for more than 38 years. It houses exhibits and interactive displays on the Trail of Tears, Civil War, the Cherokee Golden Age and the Cherokee Nation’s passion for the education of its people. The museum is located adjacent to Ross Cemetery.
Cherokee Nation about 1845, and it is the only remaining ante-bellum home in Oklahoma. The home contains original and period artifacts and furnishings. Several special events are held throughout the year, including ghost stories in October, the 1850s Lawn Social in May and the Victorian Holiday Open House.
FOLIAGE EXCURSIONS The roads in and around Tahlequah are ablaze with color in the spring and autumn. The Cherokee Hills National Byway, which runs through downtown Tahlequah, is an excellent starting point for whichever direction you decide to take. The Tahlequah Area Tourism Council is always happy to suggest driving routes.
NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY SEMINARY HALL Rich in history and tradition, the university dates back to the founding of the original Cherokee National Female Seminary. After the original Seminary burned on Easter Sunday 1887, construction began on the new building. The majestic building continued as the female seminary until statehood. Now known as Seminary Hall, it is the centerpiece of NSU. In the lobby is a mural, which was commissioned as a WPA project, by the Kiowa Five.
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Nature, Hiking & Wildlife
Bonding Opportunities Great Community Pride GREAT IDEA FOR A BLIND DATE!
Group Event Volunteer Hours Family Fun
Come Join us! Spring Cleaning and Fall Clean-UP Spring Cleaning and Fall Clean-UP
Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge is located two miles south of Vian, and is the winter home for nearly one million migratory geese and the bald eagle. Tenkiller State Park Nature Center is open seven days a week during summer. A short nature trail follows a rock bluff by the lake. Guided tours are available. Standing Rock Nature Trail (about 1-1/4 miles) is made up of two loops, each with two segments of shorter trails - Big Pine and Three Sisters on the first loop, and Big Cedar and Hi-Knob on the second. The Buzzard Roost Trail at Cato Creek Landing (1-1/2 miles) winds along a circular path beside a creek. The Overlook Nature Trail is located at the Tenkiller Dam Overlook. The first segment of the trail (1-1/4 miles) winds through the woods from the Overlook to Highway lOA (near the Methodist Boys Ranch). The second segment of the trail continues on from Highway 10A and ends at Strayhorn Public Use Area. PARKS OFFER VIEWS OF TENKILLER’S WILDLIFE
Since August 2019, Up Tenkiller and the Illinois River is a bi-yearly cleanup event to clean up trash and debris along the shorelines of Lake Tenkiller and the Illinois River. Through the years, natural disasters and human carelessness have blighted the pristine nuance of our rivers and lakes. The initiative of the clean-up is to restore the beauty of the waters and shorelines that we claim as our own.
Accomplished So Far! 204,975 lbs./102.49 tons Number of Volunteers: 822
REGISTER: www.laketenkiller.com/ Greater Tenkiller Area Association Facebook page
KYLE UNDERWOOD
KYLE UNDERWOOD
The Greater Tenkiller area opens a ton of opportunities to get outside and explore the outdoors. With an extensive list of trails to hike and nature to see you are sure to have a great time.
Visit the Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Commission for a list of hiking trails along the Illinois River or call (918) 456-3251.
Visit the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge or call (918) 773-5251. Visit the Tenkiller State Park or call (918) 489-5641.
For more general information please visit: The Greater Tenkiller Area Association Facebook page or www.laketenkiller.com.
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in remembrance Jay Rutland August 15, 1946-September 14, 2021 Jay Rutland August 15, 1946-September 14, 2021 August 15, 1946-September 14, 2021
“Fall is a glorious time to be at the lake!” -Jay Rutland “Fall is a glorious time to be at the lake!” -Jay Rutland Jay loved the cooler temps, the beautiful fall colors that bordered the hillsides, OU game on the radio....... and spending those moments with the ones he loved Jay loved the cooler temps, the beautiful fall colors that bordered the hillsides, OU game on the radio....... and spending those moments with the ones he loved “Fall is a glorious time to be at the lake!” -Jay Rutland Jay loved the cooler temps, the beautiful fall colors that bordered the hillsides, OU game on the radio....... and spending those moments with the ones he loved
of these amazing men who loved our lake OBITUARY EXCERPT “Dick loved his family and he also loved Lake Tenkiller. He and Martha had a place on Tenkiller for over 30 years and were there almost every weekend. He loved to take his kids and grandkids out on the boat and sometimes even let them drive!” “Dick was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was always was the first to help anyone who needed it.” *Per Dick’s request, a Tenkiller firework donation fund has been established at laketenkiller.com OBITUARY EXCERPT “Dick loved his family and he also loved Lake Tenkiller. He and Martha had a place on Tenkiller for over 30 years and were there almost every weekend. He loved to take his kids and grandkids out on the boat and sometimes even let them drive!” “Dick was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was always was the first to help anyone who needed it.” *Per Dick’s request, a Tenkiller firework donation fund has been established at laketenkiller.com OBITUARY EXCERPT “Dick loved his family and he also loved Lake Tenkiller. He and Martha had a place on Tenkiller for over 30 years and were there almost every weekend. He loved to take his kids and grandkids out on the boat and sometimes even let them drive!” “Dick was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was always was the first to help anyone who needed it.” *Per Dick’s request, a Tenkiller firework donation fund has been established at laketenkiller.com of these amazing men who loved our lake
COOKSON The town took its name from Jack Cookson, who operated the local post office from his home before statehood. Cookson was on the shore of the Illinois River, near Cookson Bluff. One of the first buildings was the Ballew Brothers’ Store. They supplied locals with everything from food to guns and tools. Several of the structures from the town were moved to higher ground. Among these were the old store and several small cabins, which were relocated to their present location on Highway 82 in Cookson. Several structures from the old town could not be moved and were left behind at the bottom of the lake. They now are a popular underwater destination for scuba divers. SALLISAW Sallisaw, the county seat of Sequoyah County, is located at the southern edge of the famed Cookson Hills, and near the navigation channel of the Arkansas River. Its name is from the French “salaisiau” meaning “salt provision.” Native Americans, explorers, trappers and early settlers were familiar with the natural salt deposits found near area streams. For more information, contact the Sallisaw Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 251, 301 E. Cherokee Ave., Sallisaw, OK 74955. The phone number is (918) 775-2558. VIAN Vian began as a trading post in the mid 1800s and was established as a town in 1902. No one is sure where the name Vian came from, but one popular version is that the town was named after an early settler, George Vi. The second syllable, ‘an’ was added making it Vian, which in the Cherokee language means “garfish.” Vi’an is located nine miles south of Lake Tenkiller on Oklahoma State Highway 82 and just off lnterstate 40. For information, contact the Vian Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 687, 603 N. Thornton St., Vian, OK 74962 or phone (918) 773-5446. KEYS The Keys community is located south of Tahlequah at the junction of Oklahoma State Highway 82, which traverses the east side of the lake, and Indian Road, which traverses the west side. Because of its location as a gateway to both sides of Lake Tenkiller, Keys is a focal point for a variety of businesses, including convenience stores, banks, restaurants, hair/nail salons, real estate agencies, churches, a donut shop, boat repair shop, auto repair shop, hotel, agriculture and feed store and Jimmy Houston’s Outdoor Store.
RIVER PROVIDES CHANCE TO VIEW WILDLIFE Arkansas River
WEBBERS FALLS Webbers Falls Lock and Dam is located on the Arkansas River near the towns of Gore and Webbers Falls. An observation platform and visitors facilities are located at the Dam, and visitors may watch the lockage of barges and pleasure craft. On a bluff above the powerhouse is a scenic overlook where you may view the lock and dam and a large area of the lake. Sportspeople will find recreation opportunities at Webbers Falls Lake. The predominate species of fish are catfish, white bass, black bass, crappie, bream, walleye, sauger, buffalo, carp and a rapidly growing population of striped bass. For more information, contact the Corps of Engineers, Webbers Falls Lock and Dam at (918) 487-5252.
SEQUOYAH NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge is located on the Arkansas River between Gore and Vian. Nestled in the gently rolling foothills of the Ozark Mountains, Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge is home to wildlife as unique as the bald eagle and as elusive as the bobcat. Fertile bottom lands at the confluence of the Arkansas and Canadian Rivers make this refuge a terrific wildlife viewing destination. The refuge was established in 1970 to provide habitat for waterfowl and other migratory birds and to provide food and cover for resident wildlife. For more information, contact Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge at (918) 773-5251.
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GREATER TENKILLER AREA ASSOCIATION MEMBER DIRECTORY
Relocation & Retirement
Pine Cove Marina & Yacht Club Vian • 918-489-5735 www.pinecovemarinaok.com SixShooter Marina Cookson • 918-457-5152 Strayhorn Marina Gore • 918-939-8600 BOAT STORAGE Chicken Creek Village Cookson • 918-457-5029 Cookson Bend Resort & Marina Cookson • 918-457-5161 www.cooksonbend.com Cookson Village Properties Cookson • 918-457-5578 CAMPING/CAMPGROUND Burnt Cabin Marina Park Hill • 918-457-5421 www.burntcabin.com Cherokee Landing State Park Park Hill • 918-457-5716 Greenleaf State Park Braggs • 918-487-5196 Marval Camping Resort Gore • 918-489-2295 www.marvalresort.com Peyton’s Place
ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES Cookson Hills Electric Cooperatives, Inc. Sallisaw • 918-775-2211 www.cooksonhills.com Lake Region Electric Hulbert • 918-772-2526 www.lrecok.coop Ozark Electric Cooperative Stilwell • 1-800-521-6144 www.ozarksecc.com FLOATING RESORTS Arrowhead Resort Tahlequah • 918-456-1140 www.arrowheadresortok.com Diamondhead Resort Tahlequah • 918-456-4545 www.diamondheadresort.com Hanging Rock Camp Tahlequah • 918-456-3088 www.hangingrockfloats.com Peyton’s Place Tahlequah • 918-456-3847 War Eagle Resort Tahlequah • 918-456-6272 www.wareagleresort.com BOUTIQUES & GIFTS Anne Paige Gore • 918-489-5854 www.annepaigegore.com Dreamcatcher Sports Tahlequah • 918-207-0588 www.dreamcatchersports.com Fin & Feather Resort Gore • 918-487-5148 www.finandfeatherresort.com Lakeside Style Co. www.lakesidestyle.com Vian T-Shirt Co. Facebook & Instagram 360 Farms & Elderberry Wine Co. Webbers Falls • 918-464-2505 www.360okfarms.com Robin Fitzpatrick Oklahoma Inspired Jewelry oklahomainspired.com HOME IMPROVEMENT Breeneis Roofing & Construction Cookson • 918-457-3450 Kansas Casting, Inc. Belle Plain, KS • 620-488-2282 Water/Stone Interiors Vian • 918-207-5285 facebook.com/waterstone
ATTORNEYS L. Brad Allen Sallisaw • 918-775-6019
BAIT & TACKLE Burnt Cabin Marina
Park Hill • 918-457-5421 www.burntcabin.com Chicken Creek Village Cookson • 918-457-5029 Cookson Bend Resort & Marina Cookson • 918-457-5161 www.cooksonbend.com Cookson Village Cookson 918-457-5578 facebook@cooksonvillage Gore Bait & Tackle Gore • 918-489-2424 SixShooter Resort Cookson • 918-457-5152 Snake Creek Marina Cookson • 918-457-6055 www.snakecreekmarina.com Strayhorn Marina Gore • 918-939-8600 BANKING & FINANCE Armstrong Bank Gore • 918-489-5950 Muskogee • 918-680-6900 Tahlequah • 918-456-6191 Vian • 918-773-5255 www.armstrongbank.com BancFirst Tahlequah Tahlequah • 918-456-0541 www.bancfirst.com Bank of Cherokee County Hulbert • 918-772-2572 www.bankofcherokeecounty.net Bank of Commerce Park Hill • 918-458-1500 www.bc-ok.bank BOAT RENTALS Barnacle Bills Marina Park Hill • 918-457-2438 www.barnaclebillsmarina.com Burnt Cabin Marina Cookson • 918-457-5421 www.burntcabin.com Cookson Bend Resort & Marina
YOU’VE OFFICIALLY FALLEN IN LOVE WITH THE AREA Now it is time to find a little more permanent residence, either for the summer or for life. There are some of the best real estate opportunities in America right here, with some of the lowest property taxes in the nation and a low cost of living. There is plenty of property in the area and one will meet your needs. You will also find some of the most friendly and helpful agents around, ready to help fulfill your dream. So drive around and the see the splendor of Lake Tenkiller and then check out the real estate ... you might just find yourself a great deal.
Tahlequah • 918-456-3847 www.peytonsplace.com Tenkiller State Park Gore • 918-776-8180 The following campgrounds are managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 918-487-5252 • www.swt.usace.army.mil • Blackgum Landing • Cato Creek • Carter’s Landing
• Chicken Creek • Cookson Bend • Elk Creek
• Horseshoe Bend • Petit Bay I and II • Snake Creek • Standing Rock • Strayhorn Landing DENTAL SERVICES Brant Rouse, DDS, PLC Family & Restorative Dentistry Tahlequah • 918-456-0977 www.tahlequahsmiles.com Vian Family Dental Clinic Vian • 918-773-6200
Cookson • 918-457-5735 www.cooksonbend.com Elk Creek Resort & Marina Park Hill • 918-457-5142
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Cookson Village Cookson • 918-457-5148 Cookson Village Facebook
Snake Creek Marina Cookson • 918-457-5674 www.snakecreekmarina.com Strayhorn Marina Gore • 918-487-5178 www.strayhornmarina.com ORGANIZATIONS Gore Chamber of Commerce www.gorechamber.net Grand River Dam Authority Vinita • 918-256-5545 ext. 40619 www.grda.com Greater Tenkiller Area Association Cookson • 918-457-4403 www.laketenkiller.com GRDA Scenic Rivers Operations Tahlequah • 918-458-0308 Tenkiller Area Community Organization (T.A.C.O) Cookson • 918-457-3220 Tenkiller Park Partners Vian • 918-489-5641 Vian Community Foundation www.viancommunityfoundation.org PHARMACIES Gore Green Country Drug Gore • 918-489-5558 Vian Pharmacy Vian • 918-773-8111 PHOTOGRAPHY Ron Day Nature Photography Cookson • 918-457-4466 www.rondayphotography.com Stan Weed Real Estate Photography Vian • 405-650-8159 www.stanweed.com In The Moment Productions Gore • 951-492-5965 solomon@itmproductions.net www.itmproductions.net RADIO STATIONS Classic Country KTLQ 1350 AM Listener Line • 918-431-1350 www.kdq_1350.com Tahlequah • 918-456-3251 Save The Illinois River (STIR) Tahlequah • 918-284-9440 www.illinoisriver.org Tahlequah Rotary Club
Green Country Abstract & Title Tahlequah • 918-453-0073 www.greencountryabstract.com Lake Home Realty Kim Hong 918-616-6930 Tenkiller Lake & Land Angela Lovell Vian • 918-773-4070 www.tenkillerlakeandland.com Tenkiller Lake Realty Cookson •918-457-3200 www.tenkillerlakerealty.com Tenkiller Property.Com Vian • 918-773-4072 www.tenkillerproperty.com Century 21 First Choice Realty Gore • 918-489-5014 Sallisaw • 918-775-9134 www.century21.com RESTAURANTS Barnacle Bill’s Bar & Grill Park Hill • 918-457-2438 Big Daddy’s Restaurant & Catering Park Hill • 918-457-5421 www.burntcabin.com Caney Ridge Marina Welling • 918-457-4417 www.caneyridgemarina.com Clear Water Cafe Gore • 918-489-5655 Cookson Bend Resort & Marina Cookson • 918-457-5161 www.cooksonbend.com Del Rancho Tahlequah • 918-456-0757 Emily’s Tea Room Vian • 918-489-2201 Burnt Cabin Marina Fin & Feather Resort Gore • 918-487-5148 www.finandfeatherresort.com Gambino’s Pizza Gore • 918-489-2828 www.gambinospizza.com Nancy’s Homemade Pie & Cafe Keys • 918-453-9000 SixShooter Skipper’s Floating Restaurant Gore • 918-489-2680 El Lago Mexican Grill Gore • 918-489-2009
The Wolf at Tenkiller Vian • 918-773-5093 www.thewolfattenkiller.com RV PARKS Barnacle Bill’s Marina Park Hill • 918-457-2438 The Timbers at Burnt Cabin Park Hill • 918-457-4600 www.burntcabin.com Chicken Creek Village Cookson • 918-457-5029 Cookson Village Cookson • 918-457-5578 Cookson Village Facebook Lewis RV Park Vian • 918-705-0523 www.facebook.com/lewisrv Marval Family Resort Gore • 918-489-2295 www.marvalresort.com Meadow Park Gore • 918-489-5159 www.meadow-park.com SixShooter Marina & Cabins Cookson • 918-457-5152
Sequoyah Fuels Gore • 918-489-5511 Southlake Vet Clinic Gore • 918-489-2322 Southlake Boarding & Grooming Gore • 918-489-2684 www.southlakepetspa.com Sue’s Recycling & Sanitation Vian • 918-773-4007 TOURIST INFORMATION Cherokee Nation Tahlequah • 918-453-5536 www.cherokee.org Gore Chamber of Commerce www.gorechamber.net Greater Tenkiller Area Association Keys • 918-457-4403 Sallisaw Chamber of Commerce Sallisaw • 918-775-2558 www.sallisawchamber.com Tour Tahlequah
HOSPITALS & HEALTHCARE Community Healthcare of Gore Gore • 918-489-2397 Triton Health Dr. C. Patrick Sullivan Vian • 918-773-8930 Gore Green Country Drug, Inc. Gore • 918-489-5558 www.goredrug.com Gore Nursing Center Gore • 918-489-2299 Poison Control Center 1-800-522-4611 Tahlequah City Hospital Tahlequah • 918-456-0641 W.W. Hastings Hospital Tahlequah • 918-458-3100 INSURANCE State Farm Insurance Mark Hodson Tahlequah • 918.456.8881 Humana MarketPoint, Inc M-F • 405-885-1500 rdowning@humana.com Southlake Insurance Gore • 918-489-5823 LIQUOR & WINE Tenkiller Liquor Gore • 918-489-5888 www.tenkillerliquor.com The Wine Shoppe Vian • 918-773-3063 The Wine Shoppe Facebook 360 Farms & Elderberry Wine Co. Webbers Falls • 918-464-2505 www.360okfarms.com LODGING Barnacle Bill’s Marina Park Hill • 918-457-2438 Blue Doors at Tenkiller Gore • 918-489-2174 www.bluedoorsattenkiller.com Burnt Cabin Marina Park Hill • 918-457-5421 www.burntcabin.com Caney Ridge Marina Welling • 918-457-4417 www.caneyridgemarina.com Carefree Cabins Vian • 918-851-1664 www.tenkillercabins.com Clearwater Rentals Vian • 405-615-7776 www.clearwaterrentals.net Chicken Creek Store & Lodging Cookson • 918-457-4821 chickencreekstorelodging.weebly.com Cookson Bend Resort & Marina
Fin & Feather Resort Gore • 918-487-5148 www.finandfeatherresort.com Forest View Cabins Gore • 405-819-0860 www.escapetoforestviewtenkiller.com Greenleaf State Park Braggs • 918-487-5196 Marval Family Resort Gore • 918-489-2295 www.marvalresort.com Murphy’s Mountain Lake Retreat Vian • 405-550-4007 Nautical Adventures Scuba Cookson • 918-457-3483 www.nauticaladventuresscuba.com SixShooter Resort & Marina Cookson • 918-457-5152 SixShooter Resort Facebook Tenkiller Lodge Keys • 918-453-9000 www.tenkillerlodge.com
Tahlequah • 918-456-3742 www.tourtahlequah.com Town of Gore 918-489-2636 www.townofgore.com Town of Vian 918-773-8110 www.townofvian.com
Tenkiller State Park Vian • 918-776-8180
The following campgrounds are managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers • 918-487-5252. • Cato Creek • Carter’s Landing • Cookson Bend • Elk Creek • Snake Creek • Standing Rock
Terrapin Peak Bed, Breakfast & Beyond Cookson • 918-457-4906 www.terrapinpeakbbb.com The Lodge at Strayhorn Cove Vian • 918-776-7700 The Nest at Tenkiller Gore • 918-520-5745 www.thenest701.com The Timbers at Burnt Cabin
SCUBA DIVING SALES, SERVICES & TOURS Gene’s Aqua Pro Gore • 918-487-5221 genesaquapro.com Nautical Adventures Cookson 918-457-3483 www.nautical adventuresscuba.com SERVICES Cross Telephone 800-828-6567 www.crosstel.net Gore Laundromat Gore • 918-489-2517 Lakeside Veterinary Services, PLLC Park Hill 918-453-2655 www.lakeside-vet.com Riverside Equipment & Services Gore • 918-489-2517
Park Hill • 918-457-5421 www.burntcabin.com MARINAS Barnacle Bill’s Marina Park Hill • 918-457-5483 www.barnaclesmarina. com Bluewater Bay Marina formerly Pettit Bay 918-489-5735 Burnt Cabin Marina
Park Hill • 918-457-5421 www.burntcabin.com Caney Ridge Marina Welling • 918-457-4417
K 95.5 Inc. and Payne 5 Communications, LLC Welling • 918-207-1021
www.caneyridgemarina.com Cookson Bend Resort & Marina Cookson • 918-457-5161 www.cooksonbend.com Elk Creek Resort & Marina Park Hill • 918-457-5142 Pine Cove Marina Gore • 918-489-5735 www.pinecovemarinaok.com SixShooter Marina & Cabins Cookson • 918-457-5152 www.sixshootermarinaok.com
Cookson • 918-457-5152 Smokin’ Goat Roadhouse Vian • 918-773-5705 Soda Steve’s Gore • 918-487-5148
www.lakescountry1021.com www.okiecountry1017.com Lakes Country 102.1/KEOK Listener Line • 918-207-1021 REAL ESTATE Century 21 Wright Real Estate Keys • 918-456-1016 Tahlequah • 918-456-5288 www.century21wright.com
www.finandfeatherresort.com The Deck at Cookson Village Cookson • 918-487-5578 Cookson Village Facebook
Cookson • 918-457-5161 www.cooksonbend.com
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is the perfect destination for families, couples and corporates looking for a rustic outdoors experience. Lake Tenkiller is just minutes away or visit the historic culture of Tahlequah, the capitol of Cherokee Nation. Rest, Relax and Rejuvenate! Phone: (918) 457-4906 terrapinpeakbbb.com info@terrapinpeakbbb.com Terrapin Peak Bed, Breakfast & Beyond
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