Lake Stanley Draper holds the name of one of the most iconic Oklahomans of all time. North Carolina-born Stanley Draper was formerly a teacher and a lieutenant in World War I before coming to Oklahoma City in 1919. Shortly after arriving in Oklahoma City, Draper began his involvement with the OKC Chamber of Commerce.
His first role with the Chamber, as the membership secretary, paid $2,100 per year. After also serving as assistant manager, eventually Draper became the Managing Director of the Chamber in 1930 and was popularly known as “Mr. Chamber of Commerce.” During his 48 years with the organization, he was deeply involved with bond issues, expressway development, aviation development, and forward-thinking water development projects.
Among the many important contributions Draper made in Oklahoma City, he was instrumental in the creation of Tinker Air Force Base, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, the FAA Center, OKC Beautiful and the development of Lake Hefner and the Oklahoma Health Center.
Though Stanley Draper passed away in 1976, his legacy certainly lives on. Near the end of his career in 1962-1963, Draper helped lead efforts to construct a pipeline from Atoka to help provide OKC with more water resources to help accommodate future growth. The resulting reservoir for the water was named Lake Stanley Draper, and it has been a fantastic getaway for weekenders and weeknight adventurers of Oklahoma City ever since. With a convenient location in southeast Oklahoma City, it’s one of the easiest spots to visit for camping, fishing, cycling, hiking, and many other outdoor activities.
Campers can rent sites for eight dollars per day and can stay for up to two weeks. Thirty-two campsites are available and can be booked through the Marina. Potable water and portapotties are available at the campground, which is located beside the trailhead of the Cross Timbers Riding Area and directly across from a large beach area of the lake. Talk about an affordable “beach vacation”!
Fishing opportunities at the lake are numerous. You can choose to throw out your cast from the shore, a boat, or from one of the many fishing piers located around the lake. A City fishing permit and Oklahoma State fishing license are required for anyone 16-62 years old. They cost five dollars per day or can be purchased at an annual rate of $20.
The land surrounding the lake is a cyclist’s dream—whether you’re a roadie or you prefer the trail, there are plentiful paths to enjoy at Lake Draper. Rolling hills make up the 16 miles of paved trail surrounding the lake’s 34 miles of shoreline. A trip to Draper is a popular option for road cyclists and runners who need to work on their climbing capabilities when prepping for a race or simply when looking to increase their fitness.
Another thing that makes Lake Draper special is that it is Oklahoma City’s only water-skiing lake. All types of boating are encouraged on the water, including sailing and windsurfing, which have become increasingly popular in recent years. At the Marina, you can purchase boat fuel, fishing tackle and licenses and you can rent boats, canoes and jet skis.
There are few better places within the Oklahoma City limits to enjoy some time on or near the water than Lake Stanley Draper.
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