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Access Site OK

Pettit Bay

Illinois River - Tenkiller Ferry Lake

Source: u_s__army_corps_of_engineers Updated 1 year ago

City: OK
County: Cherokee
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 35.75428654, -94.95100549
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
Pettit Bay offers a well-equipped boat launch on the shores of Tenkiller Ferry Lake, a popular recreation destination in eastern Oklahoma. The ramp provides convenient water access for kayakers, canoeists, and motorized boaters alike.

The facility features courtesy docks, making it easy to load and unload your craft. Nearby amenities include flush toilets, hot showers, and a marina with concessions. Pettit Bay is situated on the Illinois River arm of Tenkiller Ferry Lake, a large reservoir known for its excellent fishing and water sports opportunities.

Tenkiller Ferry Lake spans over 12,000 acres and can accommodate a variety of watercraft, from small kayaks to larger powerboats. The lake's calm, protected waters make it well-suited for both paddling and motorized recreation. Boaters should be aware of typical lake conditions, including wind and boat traffic, and plan accordingly for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Federal Facility Information
918-487-5252 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Pettit Bay Campground on Tenkiller Ferry Lake is a recreational paradise for visitors looking for a well-kept waterfront facility, which offers convenient access for boating, swimming and wildlife viewing. It is located near the historic town of Tahlequah and attracts many campers who return year after year.Recreation
Boating, fishing, water skiing, hiking, and swimming are some of the...

Overview
Pettit Bay Campground on Tenkiller Ferry Lake is a recreational paradise for visitors looking for a well-kept waterfront facility, which offers convenient access for boating, swimming and wildlife viewing. It is located near the historic town of Tahlequah and attracts many campers who return 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
The campground has sites with electric hookups, and some sites are non-electric. The park has flush toilets, hot showers, water hydrants, a swim beach, playground, dump station, and boat ramps with courtesy docks. 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 River near Gore offers prime trout fishing.

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Nearby Recreation Areas
Tenkiller Ferry Lake Located within
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