Copan Lake Boat Ramps: Open For Business?

Copan Lake, located in Oklahoma, is a multi-purpose flood control lake that offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating and fishing. After a prolonged closure due to low water levels, the question arises: are the boat ramps at Copan Lake open? This topic will explore the accessibility of boat ramps at Copan Lake and provide information about the lake's features and attractions.

Washington Cove boat ramp reopens after drought

After a prolonged drought that caused a significant drop in water levels, the Washington Cove boat ramp at Copan Lake has finally reopened. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who manage the lake, made the decision to reopen the boat ramp after recent precipitation brought the lake level just under four feet below normal. This is a welcome improvement from the nearly year-and-a-half-long drought that had left the lake almost eight feet below its usual level.

The drought had forced the Corps of Engineers to close boat ramp access to Copan Lake, disappointing many anglers who are drawn to the lake's peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty. Copan Lake, located in Oklahoma, offers approximately 5,000 surface acres of water and a variety of fish species, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The lake is also a multi-purpose flood control lake, managed by the U.S. Corps of Engineers, who maintain designated swimming areas, campgrounds, and boat ramps.

While the Washington Cove boat ramp is now accessible again, the Corps of Engineers still advise boaters to exercise caution when venturing onto Copan Lake. This is due to the presence of underwater obstacles that could pose hazards in certain areas of the lake.

The reopening of the boat ramp is a positive sign for the community, and with the lake now just under four feet below normal, it is hoped that the situation will continue to improve. Anglers and boaters alike are sure to be eager to take advantage of the newly reopened ramp and enjoy all that Copan Lake has to offer.

With its tranquil atmosphere, abundant fish species, and picturesque setting, Copan Lake is a favourite destination for many. The recent drought had certainly posed a challenge, but thanks to the efforts of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the much-needed precipitation, the lake is once again accessible to the public.

Copan Lake's day use area

Copan Lakes Day Use Area

Copan Lake is a multi-purpose flood control lake with approximately 5,000 surface acres of water. The day use area, Copan Point, offers a range of facilities for visitors.

Beach and Picnic Areas

Copan Point has a designated beach area and beautiful picnic sites overlooking the water.

Boat Ramp

There is a boat launching ramp, which is managed by the U.S. Corps of Engineers. There is a fee for use of the boat launch.

Fishing

Copan Lake is a popular spot for anglers, with an abundance of fish, including largemouth bass, white crappie, bluegill, sunfish, black crappie, blue catfish, flathead catfish, channel catfish, and white bass.

Swimming

There are designated swimming areas at Copan Lake, and swimming fees may apply.

Camping

There are two campgrounds available for tents and RVs. The Washington Cove Campground gates are locked from 10 pm to 6 am daily, and the Post Oak Campground is open 24/7.

Practical Information

Copan Lake is located 2 miles west of US 75 on SH 10. Day use fees are $2 per person for walk-in/bike-in entry, $5 for a private vehicle, and $20 for a bus/commercial vehicle. There are no day use fees for children under 16.

Fishing opportunities at Copan Lake

Copan Lake is a great place to fish, with approximately 5,000 surface acres of water. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, white crappie, black crappie, bluegill, sunfish, blue catfish, flathead catfish, channel catfish, and white bass. The U.S. Corps of Engineers manages the lake and its facilities, including campgrounds, boat ramps, and designated swimming areas.

Copan Lake is an uncrowded and scenic area, making it a popular destination for anglers who enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. The lake is located 2 miles west of US 75 on SH 10, and its shoreline length is 50.70 miles. The lake has a maximum depth of 33.50 feet and a surface area of 4,850 acres. There is a day-use area at Copan Point, which offers a designated beach, beautiful picnic sites, and a boat-launching ramp. There is a fee for using the boat launch, and swimming fees may apply.

For fishing enthusiasts, there are plenty of bait and tackle shops nearby, including Copan Bait & Tackle, Fischer Bait & Tackle, and The Tackle Box. Washington Cove Campground and Post Oak Campground are also available for tents and RVs. The Washington Cove Campground gates are locked from 10 pm to 6 am daily, while the Post Oak Campground is open 24/7.

In addition to Copan Lake, the area also offers other great fishing spots. Hulah Lake, located near Copan Lake, is known for producing large catfish, as well as a variety of other fish species. Bluestem Lake and Pawhuska Lake are also nearby and offer excellent fishing opportunities for various fish species. So whether you're looking for a peaceful fishing spot or a chance to catch a big catfish, the Copan Lake area has something for everyone.

Campgrounds for tents and RVs

Copan Lake in Oklahoma offers a range of camping options for tents and RVs. The lake is a beautiful setting for a holiday, with over 30 miles of shoreline and about 25 square miles of water and land. The US Army Corps of Engineers-operated lake is an ideal spot for water-based recreation, nature viewing, and relaxation.

Washington Cove Campground

Washington Cove Campground is located on the banks of Copan Lake and is open to campers between April and October (peak season). This pet-friendly campground has 101 sites that accommodate both RVs and tents, with electric and water hookups available. Amenities include flush and pit toilets, showers, drinking water, a dump station, a playground, and a boat ramp. The campground is encircled by a wooded area, and the lake offers extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, hunting, boating, and picnicking.

Post Oak Park Campground

Post Oak Campground is also a pet-friendly campground on the banks of Copan Lake, open during peak season and in November during the off-peak season. This campground has 19 sites for RVs and tents, with electric hookups and amenities such as flush and pit toilets, potable water, showers, and a dump station. Recreational activities include fishing, hunting, picnicking, and boating.

Other Campgrounds near Copan Lake

In addition to the campgrounds at Copan Lake, there are several other campgrounds in the area that can accommodate tents and RVs:

• Oologah RV at South Park: Located in Oologah, OK, with two sites and various amenities, including water, sewer, electric power, and dog-friendly areas.
• Bell RV Village: A brand new upscale RV park and campground located right off Highway 75 in Oklahoma, with 101 spacious sites and luxurious amenities in a pet-friendly atmosphere.
• The Train Depot on Route 66: A primitive drive-in site located in White Oak, OK, right off Route 66, excellent for an easy access overnight stay with open fires and star gazing.

Swimming fees

Copan Lake in Oklahoma is a multi-purpose flood control lake with around 5,000 surface acres of water. The lake is managed by the U.S. Corps of Engineers, who also oversee the designated swimming areas.

Copan Lake's Washington Cove boat ramp was closed for a long period due to low water levels caused by a drought. The ramp was reopened in February 2024 after water levels rose following precipitation.

The U.S. Corps of Engineers manages the day-to-day operations of the lake, including the campgrounds, boat ramps, and designated swimming areas. They charge a fee for the use of the boat launch, and swimming fees may also apply. The day-use fees for Copan Lake are as follows:

• Walk-in/bike-in entry: $2 per person
• Private vehicle: $5
• Bus/commercial vehicle: $20
• There are no day-use fees for children under 16.

Camping fees vary by site, and while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the pricing, the website states that prices are subject to change without notice.

Frequently asked questions