Oklahoma: Land of the Not-So-Secret Stash of Natural Lakes (Spoiler Alert: It's Tiny)
So, you're planning a trip to Oklahoma, the land of cowboys, twangy tunes, and...well, a surprising abundance of lakes? That's right, Oklahoma boasts over 200 sparkling bodies of water, making it a haven for water enthusiasts. But here's the thing: most of these lakes are about as natural as a Kardashian's pout (no offense to fans!).
Hold on to your Stetsons, folks, because we're diving deep (or maybe just wading in a kiddie pool) into the world of Oklahoma's natural lakes. Spoiler alert: it's not exactly an ocean's worth.
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| How Many Lakes In Oklahoma Are Not Man Made |
The Great Reservoir Roundup: Man-Made Marvels
Oklahoma's claim to fame when it comes to lakes lies in its impressive collection of reservoirs. These bad boys were created by dams, perfect for activities like boating, fishing, and hiding from that relative you haven't quite warmed up to yet (we've all been there). There are more than 200 of these man-made wonders, making Oklahoma the undisputed dam king (or maybe dam queen?) of the United States.
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But hey, don't knock it 'til you try it! These reservoirs offer stunning scenery, plenty of recreation, and are a testament to human ingenuity. Just don't expect to be communing with untouched nature while you're there.
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The Natural Nook: Where Oklahoma's Wild Things Are (Sort Of)
Alright, alright, so Oklahoma isn't exactly overflowing with natural lakes. But fear not, nature lovers! There are a sprinkle of genuine, non-reservoir lakes scattered throughout the state. These fall into two categories:
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- Oxbow Lakes: These horseshoe-shaped beauties are formed by abandoned river channels. Think of them as nature's retirement homes for meandering streams. There are about 62 oxbow lakes in Oklahoma, with the largest one clocking in at a whopping 272 acres (which, don't get us wrong, is pretty darn big for a natural lake in Oklahoma).
- Playa Lakes: These temporary puddles grace the High Plains region. They fill up after rainfall, creating a brief window for wildlife to frolic before drying up again. Playa lakes might not be the most majestic bodies of water, but they're an important part of the ecosystem.
So, how many natural lakes does Oklahoma have in total? The grand total is somewhere around 62 oxbow lakes and 600 playa lakes (although the playa lake numbers can fluctuate depending on rainfall). That's not exactly a Great Lake situation, but hey, every little bit counts, right?
FAQ: Unearthing Oklahoma's Natural Lakes (the Cliff Notes Version)
Got a hankering to find Oklahoma's natural lakes? Here's a quick guide:
How to Find Oxbow Lakes: Look for horseshoe-shaped lakes near major rivers.How to Find Playa Lakes: Head to the High Plains region and keep your eyes peeled after a good rain. Just remember, they might not be there forever!How Many Natural Lakes Does Oklahoma Have? Around 62 oxbow lakes and 600 playa lakes (give or take a few).How Big Are Oklahoma's Natural Lakes? Oxbow lakes can get up to 272 acres, while playa lakes vary depending on rainfall.Should I Visit Oklahoma's Natural Lakes? Absolutely! They might not be vast, but they offer a glimpse into the state's natural beauty and unique ecosystem. Just don't expect a Great Lakes experience.
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