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.

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, white pelicans and loons.

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.

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, boat ramps, and a day use area. 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.

Nearby Attractions:

Visit the Tenkiller State Park for its nature center and scuba diving park, the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, or the historic city of Tahlequah - the capital of the Cherokee Nation. The scenic upper Illinois River is great for canoeing and rafting, and Gore offers prime trout fishing.