Summer is here. And McCurtain County is here for it.
Lake days. Holing up in a cabin instead of your home. Patio drinks. Flying through forest on a zipline. Campfire smell. Game night that gets a little out of hand. Casting lines and catching trout. Big views. Big times.
Here are a handful of our favorite ways to make the most of McCurtain County summer days.
Lake Time
Broken Bow Lake. Beavers Bend Marina. These are some names you’ll need to know. The biggest summer draw to McCurtain County is some quality Broken Bow lake time, so booking water toys and rentals ahead is smart. Unless you’re more of a just wade in kind of person. And if you’re somewhere in-between wading and water toys, Broken Bow Tiki Boat Tours might be for you.
Stevens Gap Area is one of the main areas of Beavers Bend State Park, and a great spot for some Broken Bow Lake swimming. If you’re looking for some beach time, this is where you want to go. Plus, there are nearby picnic tables, hiking trails and campsites. And space to just lounge.
If you’re wanting a little more adrenaline, make your way to the Beavers Bend Marina area of Broken Bow Lake. All things boating, jet skiing, water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, sailing and fishing happen here. We know. So many options. And when you need a break, boatside swims do the trick.
River Things
When you find yourself in need of some kayaking or canoeing, maybe some paddleboarding – or even a sno-cone, head to Beavers Bend Land & Water Park, located inside Beavers Bend Resort Park. Here you’ll take advantage of the stunning Lower Mountain Fork River, be able to rent water toys and just generally have a solid time on the river. If you’re looking for a place to bring kids – this spot is a hit with families, too.
For the more experienced, adventure-seek floaters, check out Presbyterian Falls on the Lower Mountain Fork River.
(photo: Beavers Bend Fly Shop)
And of course – fishing. Amateurs and experts alike make their way to the river for trout fly fishing. If you’re just starting out, or want to hit the best spots, there are several knowledgeable (and entertaining) guides available.
Patio Hangs
(photo: Abendigo’s Grill & Patio)
Mountain Fork Brewery. Abendigo’s Grill & Patio. Beavers Bend Brewery. Buffalo Grill. Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Taproom. Shuck Me. Hochatown Saloon. The Blue Rooster. Girls Gone Wine. Vojai’s Winery. The list is long, and on-going.
Whether you’re in the mood for some Vitamin D with local beer, a hefty pour of cabernet, or live music (or all three – we aren’t judging). McCurtain County is home to lots of places to get your patio hours in. And many host local and traveling musicians on weekends, with some even offering karaoke and trivia nights.
Cabin Life
And of course, you need a solid basecamp.
McCurtain County is known for its luxury cabins and all the amenities that go along with them. Like porchside hot tubs. Pool tables and cornhole. Chef’s kitchens and massive soaking tubs. Flat screens and California kings.
But cabins book up quickly – and in advance – during the summer months. So if you’re getting that urge to get here already, start scoping out your cabin options now.
Show us how you McCurtain!
We want to see your McCurtain County experience. Whether you’re solo-tripping or getting away with the fam, tag your photos #mccurtaincounty on Instagram at @mccurtainok and Facebook at @VisitMcCurtainCounty.
COVID-19 UPDATE
As a county, we’re doing our part to help keep people healthy. From social distancing and keeping cabins squeaky clean, to setting up hand-washing stations, and offering To-Go services – the efforts to help you still get the most out of your time here, while being smart – are going strong.
- Don’t travel if you’re sick or have been around someone who has been.
- Wash, wash, wash those hands. Soap. Water. 20 seconds. Get creative with a song choice. Follow it up with some alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover that cough. Cover that sneeze. Preferably with a tissue, then throw it away.
- Keep it clean. From frequently touched objects to surfaces, be sure to clean and disinfect.
- Put distance between yourself and other people. Something we’re all good at out here in nature.
As always, stay healthy.
Check out the CDC for additional guidance.
