Lake Stanley Draper: Fun Things To Do, Hiking Trails, Water Activities, & More

Lake Stanley Draper

Lake Stanley Draper is a hidden gem located just Southeast of Oklahoma City, offering a plethora of outdoor recreational activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, fishing enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life, this serene reservoir is the perfect destination.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Lake Stanley Draper, from its history, trails, water activities, and other fun things you can do there. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned veteran, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most out of your trip to Lake Stanley Draper.

The Creation of the Lake

Lake Stanley Draper was built in the 1960s by damming up Draper Creek, which is located on the southeast side of Oklahoma City. The lake is named after Stanley Draper, who served as the city manager of Oklahoma City and was instrumental in its construction. The reservoir was created to provide water for the city and to serve as a recreational area for residents.

Over the years, Lake Stanley Draper has become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat, with its scenic surroundings and abundant wildlife. The lake has undergone several renovations and improvements over the years, including the addition of hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

What are some fun things to do at Stanley Draper?

Fishing: Lake Stanley Draper is a popular spot for fishing, with a variety of fish species including bass, catfish, and crappie. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, there are plenty of opportunities to catch some fish and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Boating: Visitors can bring their own boats or rent them from the marina to explore the lake’s waters. From kayaks and canoes to motorboats and pontoon boats, there are options for all skill levels and preferences.

Picnicking: The lake has several picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal with friends and family. Whether you bring your own food or grab a bite from a nearby restaurant, picnicking is a great way to enjoy the scenery and spend time with loved ones.

Wildlife Viewing: The lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and a wide variety of bird species. Whether you’re an avid bird watcher or simply enjoy observing nature, Lake Stanley Draper is a great place to spot some wildlife.

Water Sports: Visitors can enjoy water sports such as water skiing, jet skiing, and wakeboarding. With calm waters and plenty of space to move around, Lake Stanley Draper is a great spot for adrenaline junkies and water sports enthusiasts.

Camping: The lake has several campgrounds where visitors can stay overnight and enjoy the natural surroundings. From tent camping to RV camping, there are options for all types of camping enthusiasts.

Playground: The lake has a playground for children to enjoy. With swings, slides, and other fun equipment, the playground is a great place for kids to burn off some energy and have some fun.

Horseback Riding: There are horseback riding trails available for those who want to explore the lake on horseback. With beautiful views of the water and surrounding nature, horseback riding is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. (Learn more here)

Bird Watching: The lake is a popular spot for bird watching, with a variety of species to observe. Whether you’re an experienced bird watcher or simply enjoy observing nature, Lake Stanley Draper is a great place to spot some birds and enjoy the scenery.

Hiking and Biking: The lake offers a variety of scenic hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. With beautiful views of the water and surrounding nature, hiking and biking are great ways to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise.

 

Explore the 5 Trails

(Click on the trail name for map & more details)

	Green / Red / Blue Loop	Yellow Loop	Green Loop	Huff-n-Puff	Dog Trail Loop
Total Distance	7.6 miles	3.3 miles	4.1 miles	1 mile	3.5 miles
Difficulty Level	Easy	Moderate	Easy	Easy	Easy
Time to Complete	2 hours, 30 minutes	1 hour, 8 minutes	1 hour, 20 minutes	20 minutes	1 hour, 10 minutes
Popular Trail Activities	Hiking, Mountain Biking	Hiking, Mountain Biking, Birdwatching	Hiking, Running, Birdwatching	Hiking, Mountain Biking	Hiking Running, Birdwatching

Water Activities:

Water Skiing: With calm waters and plenty of space to move around, this lake is a great spot for water skiing. In fact, it’s the only lake in Oklahoma City where it’s currently allowed. 

Jet Skiing: Jet skiing is another popular water activity at Lake Stanley Draper, with plenty of space to zip around and have some fun. With calm waters and beautiful surroundings, jet skiing is a great way to experience the lake from a new perspective.

Wakeboarding: Wakeboarding is a thrilling water activity that involves riding on a board behind a motorboat, using the boat’s wake to perform tricks and jumps. With its calm waters and ample space, Lake Stanley Draper is a great spot for wakeboarding enthusiasts.

Tubing: Tubing is a fun and exhilarating water activity that involves riding on an inflatable tube behind a motorboat. With its calm waters and wide open space, Lake Stanley Draper is a great spot for tubing enthusiasts of all ages.

Paddle boarding: Paddle boarding is a fun and relaxing way to explore the lake, using a long board and a paddle to glide across the water. With its calm waters and beautiful surroundings, Lake Stanley Draper is a great spot for paddleboarding enthusiasts.

Kayaking and Canoeing: Kayaking and canoeing are both great ways to explore the lake and take in the scenery. With its calm waters and variety of coves and inlets, Lake Stanley Draper is a great spot for paddling enthusiasts of all levels.

Boating: Boating is a popular activity at Lake Stanley Draper, with a variety of boats available for rent, including pontoons, jet skis, kayaks, and canoes. Visitors can explore the lake’s coves and inlets or enjoy a relaxing cruise with family and friends.

Where is the boat ramp at Lake Stanley Draper?

Use this interactive map, or plug these coordinates into your GPS. 35°20’31.8″N 97°21’51.6″W

 

Some Rules & Guidelines of the Lake:

1. No glass containers are allowed on the lake. (Aluminum cans and plastic bottles are allowed.)

2. Boaters must have proper registration and safety equipment on their vessels.

3. No fishing from boat ramps or courtesy docks.

4. No jumping or diving from bridges or other structures.

5. No littering or dumping of trash in the lake or surrounding areas.

6. No hunting or firearms are allowed on or near the lake.

7. No swimming is allowed.

8. Speed limits must be observed on the lake and all vessels must yield to emergency vehicles.

9. All pets must be kept on a leash and owners must clean up after them. Pets are also not allowed in the water.

10. Fires are only allowed in designated areas such as the fire pits and grills, and they must never be left unattended.

Rules are subject to change. See the full and up-to-date list of rules and regulations here on the Parks & Recreation Website.

How to Get to Lake Stanley Draper

The most common way to get to Lake Stanley Draper is to take I-240 to Douglas Boulevard, then head south on Douglas Boulevard to the lake. The lake is located about 12 miles southeast of downtown Oklahoma City.

There are several parking areas available around the lake. For those who enjoy cycling, there are bike trails that lead to the lake. Check local bike maps for recommended routes.

 

Click for Directions to the Marina

Hours:

The hours of Lake Stanley Draper can vary depending on the time of year and the day of the week. The Marina is typically open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. But it is usually closed during off seasons. While the parks around Lake Stanley Draper are open daily from dawn to dusk.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can you swim in Lake Stanley Draper?

No, swimming is prohibited at Lake Stanley Draper.

Can you camp at Lake Stanley Draper? What is the cost?

Yes, camping is allowed at the designated camping areas. The cost for a camping permit is $8.00, and is valid for 24 hours. For a permit and more details, contact Lake Stanley Draper Marina at (405) 799-0870.

What type of fish are in Lake Stanley Draper?

You’ll typically find Bass (Striped Hybrid, Largemouth, and White), Catfish (Blue, Flathead, and Channel), White Crappie, Sunfish (Green and Bluegill), and Walleye.

How big is Lake Stanley Draper?

The lake has a surface of approximately 2,900 square acres with an average depth of 34 feet. (Max depth is around 95 feet.) It currently contains about 33 billion gallons of water.

Where does Lake Stanley Draper’s water come from?

The lake receives its water from Atoka Lake and McGee Creek Reservoir, which is fed in by a pipeline.

Are boats allowed on Lake Stanley Draper?

Yes, boats are allowed on the lake, but you must have a valid boating permit and the boat must be registered with the State of Oklahoma.

Concluding Thoughts:

With a plethora of hiking trails, water activities, and recreational facilities, there is something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, get your heart pumping with an adrenaline-pumping water sport, or simply soak up the natural beauty of the area, Lake Stanley Draper is the perfect destination.

So, pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and head on down to Lake Stanley Draper to experience the wonders for yourself!