McGee Creek Wildlife Management Area Adventures
McGee Creek Wildlife Management Area is a diverse natural preserve in southeastern Oklahoma known for its forested hills, clear waters, and abundant wildlife. It offers a range of outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation.
About McGee Creek Wildlife Management Area
Spanning over 27,000 acres in Atoka and Pushmataha counties, McGee Creek Wildlife Management Area is part of the McGee Creek Lake project, which includes the McGee Creek Reservoir and surrounding lands managed primarily for wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation. The area lies within the Ouachita Mountains, featuring rugged terrain with mixed pine and hardwood forests, rocky hillsides, and deep creek valleys. The reservoir supplies clean water to Oklahoma City and forms the centerpiece of the region, attracting anglers with its populations of largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and other sportfish. The management area supports numerous species such as deer, turkey, bobwhite quail, squirrel, and various migratory birds, making it a popular destination for hunting and wildlife viewing. Hiking and horseback riding trails utilize existing old roads and forest service roads, providing access to scenic overlooks and natural springs. Seasonal hunting and fishing regulations are strictly enforced to maintain sustainable populations. The area's remote location and low development give visitors a quiet wilderness experience. Visitors are also drawn to McGee Creek State Park adjacent to the reservoir, which offers additional camping, picnicking, and boating facilities. The combination of water-based recreation, diverse habitats, and extensive forested acreage creates a rich outdoor opportunity for hunters, anglers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Highlights
McGee Creek Reservoir – a clear, pristine lake known for excellent bass fishing
Mixed pine and hardwood forest ecosystem with diverse wildlife populations
Hunting opportunities for white-tailed deer, turkey, and small game
Remote hiking and horseback riding trails with scenic views of the Ouachita foothills
Notable Natural Features
McGee Creek Reservoir
A clear-water reservoir spanning over 3,800 acres that supports recreational fishing and boating activities.
Ouachita Mixed Forests
Dominated by loblolly pine, shortleaf pine, and hardwood species, providing habitat for diverse wildlife.
Wildlife Population
The area supports healthy populations of white-tailed deer, wild turkey, bobwhite quail, and multiple small mammals.