BERNICE STATE PARK
Bernice State Park is located on the northwestern corner of Grand Lake. Known as the "Crappie Capital of the World," the park also offers fishing for largemouth bass, white bass, channel catfish and bluegill. Visitors will find semi-modern RV sites and tent campsites, comfort stations with showers, boat ramp, courtesy boat dock for loading and unloading, picnic areas, playground, one mile paved walking and jogging path that is handicap accessible, two wildlife watch towers, swimming and a Nature Center.
Located in Oklahoma, the park was established in 1951. It is named after Bernice, a town nearby. The area covers around 88 acres of land and offers various recreational activities such as camping, fishing and boating.
The Grand River Dam Authority manages it since its inception. In addition to water-based recreation options like swimming or paddleboarding on Lake Hudson's shores, visitors can also enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities due to diverse fauna present within the park boundaries.
Over time facilities have been improved with modern amenities including RV hookups for campers while maintaining natural beauty through careful conservation efforts.
1. Bernice State Park offers a designated swimming area in Grand Lake.
2. Lifeguards are not provided, so swimmers swim at their own risk.
3. Swimming is free of charge for park visitors.
4. The beachfront provides easy access to the water's edge for swimmers and sunbathers alike.
5. Water quality tests are regularly conducted ensuring safe conditions for swimming activities.
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is an on-site boat ramp that provides easy access to the water, making it convenient for those who own their boats. For individuals or groups without personal vessels, there are also rental services available within the vicinity where they can hire different types of boats such as pontoons and fishing rigs. The waters in this area are calm and ideal for both recreational sailing and angling activities.
Known as the "Crappie Capital of the World," the park also offers fishing for largemouth bass, white bass, channel catfish and bluegill.
Bernice State Park is located near Grove, Vinita
Bernice State Park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills. Some spots have covered shelters for larger groups.
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the park's 0.8-mile nature trail, suitable for both mountain biking and leisurely rides.
However, be aware that this path is shared with pedestrians so caution must always be exercised.
The terrain varies from flat to slightly hilly which may pose a challenge for less experienced riders.
It should also be noted that there are no bike rental facilities available within the vicinity of the park itself.
During peak season or holidays, expect higher foot traffic on trails making cycling more challenging.
Always remember to wear appropriate safety gear when bicycling in these areas as accidents could happen unexpectedly.
1. Bernice Area Nature Trail: This is a 0.8-mile trail that offers scenic views of the park's natural beauty, including its diverse flora and fauna.
2. Grand Lake Shoreline Trail: A longer route at approximately two miles long, this trail follows along the shoreline providing beautiful water vistas for hikers to enjoy.
3. Butterfly Garden Pathway: Located near the nature center, it's not particularly lengthy but features an array of native plants designed to attract butterflies throughout much of spring and summer months.
4. Bird Observation Loop: While only half a mile in length, this loop provides bird watchers with ample opportunities to spot various species inhabiting or visiting Bernice State Park area.
5. Wildlife Viewing Route: An easy walk suitable for all ages which takes you through different habitats where one can observe deer, rabbits, squirrels among other wildlife.
6. Picnic Point Walkway: Short paved path leading from picnic areas towards lake shore offering serene view points.
7. Fishing Dock Access Track: Not exactly hiking track but used by many visitors who want quick access fishing dock on foot.
8. Campground Connector Trails: These are smaller trails connecting campgrounds within state park allowing camping guests direct walking routes between amenities without need driving around entire campground complex.
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting a variety of species, including waterfowl and songbirds. The park also offers birding trails for exploration.
Bernice State Park901 State Park RdGrove, OK 74344
1 mile E of Bernice on Hwy 85A