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Oklahoma
70

Oklahoma State Parks

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USA Parks
Oklahoma
Northeast Region
Bernice State Park
Bernice State Park Bernice State Park © Ron Longenecker
Panarama of Grand Lake
Campfire and Hotdogs © stateparks.com
Roasting hot dogs over an open fire.
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BERNICE STATE PARK
BERNICE STATE PARK
1/2 mile E of Bernice on Hwy 85A
Bernice, Oklahoma   74331

Phone: 918-786-9447
Email: park email button icon
Bernice State Park is located on the northwestern corner of Grand Lake. Known as the "Crappie Capital of the World," the park also offers fishing for largemouth bass, white bass, channel catfish and bluegill. Visitors will find semi-modern RV sites and tent campsites, comfort stations with showers, boat ramp, courtesy boat dock for loading and unloading, picnic areas, playground, one mile paved walking and jogging path that is handicap accessible, two wildlife watch towers, swimming and a Nature Center.
History of the Area
Located in Oklahoma, the park was established in 1951. It is named after Bernice, a town nearby. The area covers around 88 acres of land and offers various recreational activities such as camping, fishing and boating.

The Grand River Dam Authority manages it since its inception. In addition to water-based recreation options like swimming or paddleboarding on Lake Hudson's shores, visitors can also enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities due to diverse fauna present within the park boundaries.

Over time facilities have been improved with modern amenities including RV hookups for campers while maintaining natural beauty through careful conservation efforts.

Swimming
1. Bernice State Park offers a designated swimming area in Grand Lake.
2. Lifeguards are not provided, so swimmers swim at their own risk.
3. Swimming is free of charge for park visitors.
4. The beachfront provides easy access to the water's edge for swimmers and sunbathers alike.
5. Water quality tests are regularly conducted ensuring safe conditions for swimming activities.

Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is an on-site boat ramp that provides easy access to the water, making it convenient for those who own their boats. For individuals or groups without personal vessels, there are also rental services available within the vicinity where they can hire different types of boats such as pontoons and fishing rigs. The waters in this area are calm and ideal for both recreational sailing and angling activities.
Fishing
Known as the "Crappie Capital of the World," the park also offers fishing for largemouth bass, white bass, channel catfish and bluegill.



Picnicking
Bernice State Park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills. Some spots have covered shelters for larger groups.
Bicycling
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the park's 0.8-mile nature trail, suitable for both mountain biking and leisurely rides.

However, be aware that this path is shared with pedestrians so caution must always be exercised.

The terrain varies from flat to slightly hilly which may pose a challenge for less experienced riders.

It should also be noted that there are no bike rental facilities available within the vicinity of the park itself.

During peak season or holidays, expect higher foot traffic on trails making cycling more challenging.

Always remember to wear appropriate safety gear when bicycling in these areas as accidents could happen unexpectedly.
Trails
1. Bernice Area Nature Trail: This is a 0.8-mile trail that offers scenic views of the park's natural beauty, including its diverse flora and fauna.

2. Grand Lake Shoreline Trail: A longer route at approximately two miles long, this trail follows along the shoreline providing beautiful water vistas for hikers to enjoy.

3. Butterfly Garden Pathway: Located near the nature center, it's not particularly lengthy but features an array of native plants designed to attract butterflies throughout much of spring and summer months.

4. Bird Observation Loop: While only half a mile in length, this loop provides bird watchers with ample opportunities to spot various species inhabiting or visiting Bernice State Park area.

5. Wildlife Viewing Route: An easy walk suitable for all ages which takes you through different habitats where one can observe deer, rabbits, squirrels among other wildlife.

6. Picnic Point Walkway: Short paved path leading from picnic areas towards lake shore offering serene view points.

7. Fishing Dock Access Track: Not exactly hiking track but used by many visitors who want quick access fishing dock on foot.

8. Campground Connector Trails: These are smaller trails connecting campgrounds within state park allowing camping guests direct walking routes between amenities without need driving around entire campground complex.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting a variety of species, including waterfowl and songbirds. The park also offers birding trails for exploration.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
March 20 Nice Area by John_C
park review stars; one to five Love the park, have camped there many times in the past. But, have had to camp elsewhere lately because your boat ramp is nearly the worst on lake. The water is deep enough to float most boats , but the ramp itself needs to be dug out and made steeper. Entire vehicle and trailer must be backed into water to load/unload. And that means your wading, and getting vehicle wet inside to use the ramp. Its costing you tons of revenue and rating stars. Fix the ramp and your Park would stay Full nearly year round.
September 6 Fantastic Camping by Carvers from Missouri
park review stars; one to five Hello we camped here during Labor day weekend..We had a great time and the Kids loved the Nature Center, free crafts to take home with them was awesome! The Nature center is a huge asset to this park and the walking trail is just beautifull. The restrooms are kept very clean and this is not a trashy park and we did notice how well the park was patrolled. Will definately come back again soon..
August 5 Family Fun by 4chorses
park review stars; one to five This is a wounderfully upkept park with nature trails and a nature center with tours giving at specific times. Some of the best crappie fishing in NE Oklahoma. Patrolled by law enforcement for protection and safety. Excellent improved concrete camp sites with all provisions. Cleaned daily showers and restrooms. The only down fall is there is only one boat ramp and it is in bad condition to shallow with no docks. If you have a pontoon you will not be able to launch here and have to go nearby and pay to launch. Please improve the ramp!!!!
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Area Campgrounds
Water's Edge RV and Cabin Resort
East 355 Road
Vinita, OK
918-782-1444
Grand Country Lakeside RV Park
55015 East 270 Road
Afton, OK
918-257-1959
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Bernice State Park901 State Park RdGrove, OK 74344

1 mile E of Bernice on Hwy 85A

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Oklahoma
70

Oklahoma State Parks

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