The Rare Oklahoma Lakes With Crystal Clear Water

Most lakes in Oklahoma have that distinct chocolate milk look, and no, it���s not some mysterious natural phenomenon. It’s physics and the Sooner State's signature red clay.

We’ve talked about it before, but a quick refresher: nearly every lake in Oklahoma is man-made. That means they’re essentially wide, scenic holding ponds. So when it rains, all of that water runs off pastures, gravel roads, and red clay hills, dragging dirt right into the lakes.

Stir it all up with a little Oklahoma wind, and suddenly you're swimming in a latte.

Still, there are a few exceptions. Places where the water turns that rare shade of blue that makes you question if you’re still in Oklahoma or accidentally crossed into the Rockies.

They’re few and far between, but they do exist.

Little Niagara in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area is one of them. Cold, spring-fed, and clear enough to see your feet, if they haven’t gone numb yet.

Broken Bow Lake in southeast Oklahoma is another gem. Tucked into the Ouachitas, it’s deep, forest-lined, and far from the churn of muddy runoff. It actually looks like a lake should.

Then there's the Blue Hole near Salina. It's a spring-fed swimming hole with water cold enough to end arguments. It's not big, but it’s as clear as any mountain creek and draws a faithful crowd all summer.

So while most Oklahoma lakes will continue looking like someone stirred up a gallon of Nesquik, just know that a few spots offer something closer to postcard perfection, if you're willing to seek them out.