Optima Lake, OK

Optima Lake is located in the panhandle of Oklahoma in Texas County on the Beaver River, approximately 4 1/2 miles northeast of Hardesty, and 20 miles east of Guymon. The Angler Point Public Use Area located below the dam has 21 campsites with electricity, however, it has been closed due to lack of use and federal budget until some time in the future when it may be taken over by the state department or reopened by the Corps. Other public use areas around the lake are accessible as points. The water level in the lake has not reached normal pool, and may not be suitable for all types of boating or other activities.

There is approximately 3400 acres of public hunting land managed by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, and approximately 4300 acres of Federal Wildlife Refuge. The primary species available are bobwhite quail, cottontail rabbit, deer, dove, pheasant, and wild turkey. The public hunting area is open year round, and is governed by Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation regulations. Some special regulations may apply on the Wildlife Refuge. Optima Lake is also a prime area to view a variety of waterfowl such as Canadian geese, cranes, and a variety of ducks.