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Access Site OK

Dry Creek

Caney Creek

Source: u_s__geological_survey Updated 1 year ago

City: OK
County: Cherokee
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 35.76199000, -94.88654000
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
Dry Creek provides boat launch access to Tenkiller Ferry Lake on the Illinois River in Cherokee County, Oklahoma. Located approximately 15 miles northeast of Gore via Highway 100, this access point serves as a gateway to one of Oklahoma's premier paddling and boating destinations. The 12,500-acre lake is known for its clear water and scenic setting within the Cookson Hills, featuring dramatic 200-foot limestone bluffs and secluded coves ideal for kayakers and canoeists.

The Illinois River feeding Tenkiller Ferry Lake is a major waterway (stream order 9) with an average flow of approximately 27,210 cubic feet per second and moderate gradient of 0.3 feet per mile. These conditions create stable paddling with manageable currents suitable for intermediate paddlers. The lake itself offers calmer conditions than the river upstream, making it accessible for various skill levels. Nearby Snake Creek Park and other campgrounds provide modern facilities including boat ramps, restrooms, water access, and camping options for visitors planning extended trips.

For current conditions, facility details, and reservation information, contact the area at 918-487-5252. The region supports diverse water activities including boating, fishing, water skiing, and swimming, with multiple marinas offering rentals and services around the lake.
Federal Facility Information
918-487-5252 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Snake Creek Park is one of the most popular campgrounds on Tenkiller Ferry Lake. With modern facilities, convenient access to boating, and plenty of opportunities to view wildlife, it's no wonder campers come here year after year.Recreation
Boating, fishing, water skiing, hiking, and swimming are some of the activities enjoyed by visitors. Prevailing winds and secluded coves create an...

Overview
Snake Creek Park is one of the most popular campgrounds on Tenkiller Ferry Lake. With modern facilities, convenient access to boating, and plenty of opportunities to view wildlife, it's no wonder campers come here year after year.Recreation
Boating, fishing, water skiing, hiking, and swimming are some of the activities enjoyed by visitors. Prevailing winds and secluded coves create an ideal environment for sailing. Scuba divers enjoy the lake's clear waters and high visibility. Fishing is good for black bass, white bass, striped bass, crappie and catfish. The trout stream below the dam is one of only two year-round trout fisheries in Oklahoma, and is regularly stocked with rainbow trout. Hunting is also permitted in parts of the lake area, in accordance with federal and state laws.Facilities
All campsites are equipped with electrical hookups, and the group shelters also have electricity. The park has flush toilets, hot showers, water hydrants, a swim beach, playground, dump station and boat ramps. A marina with concessions is adjacent to the campground. Of the ten marinas with concessions located on the lake, most offer boat and jet-ski rentals, and several have floating restaurants.Natural Features
Tenkiller Ferry Lake is often referred to as "Oklahoma's clear water paradise." The 12,500 acre lake is sourced by the Illinois River and the Baron Fork, which are both designated as Oklahoma Scenic Rivers. It is nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains in the northeastern part of the state. This area, known as Green Country, is surrounded by dense oak-hickory forests, tall bluffs, and rolling hills. The lake has 130 miles of shoreline with plenty of wildlife such as deer and turkey. It serves as one of the flyways of migratory birds, including bald eagles, common loons, and white pelicans.
Nearby Attractions
Visit the Tenkiller State Park for its nature center and scuba diving park, the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge near Vian, or the historic city of Tahlequah - the capital of the Cherokee Nation. The scenic upper Illinois River near Tahlequah is great for canoeing and rafting, and the lower Illinois near Gore offers prime trout fishing.

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Nearby Recreation Areas
Tenkiller Ferry Lake Located within
Nearby Boat Facilities
ELK CREEK LANDING On-site
Cookson Bend Marina On-site
Cherokee Landing State Park On-site
Sizemore Landing On-site