Lake Hefner Park

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Hefner Park is a recreational area located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The park surrounds a large reservoir, Lake Hefner, which was built in 1947 to supply water to the city. There are several good reasons to visit the park, including the beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife, and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails, fishing, boating, and picnicking.

There are several points of interest to see in the park, including the Lake Hefner lighthouse, which is a popular landmark and a great spot for taking photos. There is also a golf course located in the park, which offers stunning views of the lake. For bird watchers, the park is home to a variety of bird species, including pelicans, herons, and bald eagles.

Interesting facts about the area include that Lake Hefner was named after Robert A. Hefner, who was a prominent Oklahoma City businessman and philanthropist. The lake covers an area of 2,500 acres and has a maximum depth of 94 feet.

The best time of year to visit Lake Hefner Park is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its peak. Summer can be quite hot, but is still a popular time for boating and fishing. Winter can be cold and windy, but is also a great time for bird watching and hiking.

Overall, Lake Hefner Park is a beautiful and peaceful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, scenic views, or just a relaxing day in nature, you won't be disappointed by a visit to this Oklahoma City gem.

       

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks