March – May
Spring at Kaw Lake
The white bass run, wildflower season, and the best camping weather of the year.
Spring is when Kaw Lake comes alive. The white bass run from late March through April is one of the most exciting fishing events in Oklahoma — schools of fish push up into every cove and creek channel at once, and you can catch limits on almost anything you throw. Beyond fishing, the combination of mild temperatures, wildflower blooms, and relatively light campground crowds makes spring the ideal time for a first visit.
The White Bass Run
When water temperatures climb to the mid-50s — usually late March — white bass begin their spawning migration out of the main lake and up into creek channels and coves. The run peaks around 58–62°F and can last three to four weeks if conditions are stable.
Coon Creek, Wash Creek, and the channel arms off Big Kaw Cove are reliable staging areas. The fish school visibly — look for birds working the surface or rippling water in shallow areas. Spinners, curly-tail grubs, and small swimbaits on 1/8 to 1/4 oz jigheads produce consistently.
Morning and evening are peak activity windows, but during the peak of the run fish can be caught throughout the day. Landing 30 or 40 fish in a session is not unusual.
Tips
- Match the water temperature — run starts at 54–56°F, peaks at 58–62°F
- Target visible surface activity; birds are your best locator
- Light spinning tackle (6 lb line) with small grubs or spinners
- Catch-and-release or take only what you'll eat — white bass are prolific but the run is a shared resource
- Oklahoma allows 15 white bass per day, combined with wipers; check current regulations
Wildflowers and Hiking
The Eagle View Trail system near the dam comes into its own in April and May. The 12-mile loop passes through cross-timbers oak woodland, open prairie, and creek bottom habitat. In a good spring, Indian paintbrush, winecup, and spiderwort bloom along the trail margins.
The Five Fingers Equestrian Trail (18 miles) is also excellent in spring before summer heat makes it uncomfortable. Both trail systems are accessible from USACE day-use areas.
Tips
- Mid-April to early May is peak wildflower timing most years
- Mornings are best for birding along the trail — spring migration passes through in April
- Wear tick prevention — ticks emerge in earnest by late March in this part of Oklahoma
- The trail near the dam offers good eagle sightings even after the winter roost disperses
Camping in Spring
Campgrounds open for the full season typically around late March or April 1. Coon Creek Cove, Osage Cove, and Washunga Bay are the most popular full-facility campgrounds. Reservations through Recreation.gov are recommended for holiday weekends (Memorial Day books fast).
Temperatures in April and May run 55–75°F during the day with cool nights in the 40s — ideal sleeping weather. Rain is possible, so bring a tent footprint and guy lines.
Tips
- Book Memorial Day weekend at least 6 months in advance — it sells out
- Early May weekdays offer nearly empty campgrounds with full spring conditions
- Oklahoma spring weather can shift quickly — check the forecast daily
What to Pack
- Rain jacket or poncho (spring storms are common)
- Tick repellent (permethrin for clothes, DEET for skin)
- Spinning rod with 6 lb monofilament for white bass
- Assorted grubs and spinners (white, chartreuse, silver)
- Wildflower ID guide (Oklahoma Native Plant Society has a good one)
- Sunscreen — UV gets strong fast by May
- Layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons
- Camping reservation confirmation from Recreation.gov