Join the Kaw Lake Association,
Today!
Welcome to Kaw Lake--nature's playground--a place that is always in
season. From spring through winter Kaw Lake can satisfy both your visual senses
and your need for adventure.
Are spectacular sights something you savor? Whether you are drawn to the
breathtaking majesty of the soaring bald eagles that make their winter home on
Kaw Lake or the bounteous array of color offered by the assortment of dazzling
wildflowers of spring, whether your special pleasure lies in basking on the
shoreline amidst an awe-inspiring sunset on a summer's evening or in observing
the incomparable, ever-changing colors proudly worn by numerous varieties of
trees in fall--Kaw Lake has these vistas and more! You say you want action? Try
the breezy waters for sailing or hone your skills in water-skiing and
jet-skiing. Motor along the shoreline in a speedboat, discovering the many coves
and inlets around the lake. Hike, bike, or horseback ride the various trails
that surround the 168 miles of shoreline. Bait a hook and catch a variety of
species; Kaw Lake offers some of the best catfishing in the state. Hunt the vast
acreage set aside for the various game and wildlife seasons. Venture out into
the surrounding area to discover the refreshing fun of a waterpark; shoot a
round of golf on one of the area's fine courses; visit the museums and antique
shops; attend one of the many area festivals; learn about native American
customs. No matter what the season, there's something to see or do at or around
Kaw Lake.
We have just scratched the surface about what awaits you upon your arrival at
Kaw Lake. Check other parts of this site for specific information about these
and other events and activities. Most of all, allow yourself to discover why
season after season, there's always a reason to visit Kaw Lake.
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A Little History Lesson
As part of the $1.2 billion control plan for the Arkansas in Oklahoma and
Arkansas, Kaw Lake was finished in 1976. Flood protection for the Ponca City
area is achieved through the operation of the Kaw Dam and Lake; it is estimated
that $12,121,000 in flood damage has been prevented thus far.
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A Little More History--Native American Style

Kaw Lake gets its name from the Kaws, a tribe of Native Americans that live
around the north end of the lake. Other Native American tribes can be found in
the area, including the Ponca, Osage, Tonkawa, Otoe Missouria, and the Pawnee
tribes.
Powwows and other celebrations take place throughout the year and are open to
the public. (Consult the Calendar of Events for specific
dates.) Adherence to
age-old traditions and respect for the sacred nature of the events are expected.
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Kaw Lake Celebrations
For summer fun, Kaw Lake hosts a couple of festivals. During the second
weekend of June, gear up for the Kaw-Fest. Held around the south end of
the lake, the festival offers every kind of water sport and lake-related
activity imaginable. Fisherman will be delighted with the Big Bass
Tournament Youngsters will be entertained with the sand sculpture
contest. In addition there will be live music near the beach. Let's not
forget the great food All in all, it's a great time in beautiful
surroundings!
Then in July, when you might be just about ready for wintry inspiration,
Kaw Lake presents Christmas in July. This exciting day-long event takes
place during the 4th of July weekend and features a water parade of
decorated boats followed by spectacular fireworks. Back To Top
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