Family Day at Kaw Lake — Swimming, Fishing & Kaw City
A perfect one-day family adventure with something for every age — morning swim, easy bank fishing, a visit to Kaw City, and a lakeside picnic. No boat required.
Current Conditions Note
Best in late spring through early fall when water is warm enough to swim. Avoid holiday weekends if you want uncrowded parking. Check the Conditions page for current lake level — a low lake can expose more rock at shoreline entry points.
Your Itinerary
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Grab supplies and head out
Stop at the Walmart Supercenter in Ponca City for snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and a $3 container of nightcrawlers from the sporting goods section. Then head 8 miles east on US-60 toward the lake.
Tip: Pack your own lunch — it saves $15+ per person and the picnic tables are nicer than any restaurant anyway.
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Morning swim at Washunga Bay
Washunga Bay has a sandy entry point and calm, shallow water — perfect for kids. The USACE day-use area is free and has picnic shelters and restrooms nearby. Water is typically clearest in the morning before boat traffic picks up.
Tip: Water shoes are strongly recommended — the lake bottom has rocks and mussel shells.
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Bank fishing at Osage Cove
Drive 15 minutes to Osage Cove Campground's day-use area. Bank fishing from the rocky shoreline produces channel catfish and occasional bass. Kids with a simple hook-and-worm setup catch fish here reliably.
Tip: Oklahoma fishing license required for adults 16+. Available online at wildlifedepartment.com or at Walmart.
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