Autumn is calling all paddlers to Broken Bow, Oklahoma, home to one of the most spellbinding reservoirs in the United States. Broken Bow Lake itself is a massive, breathtaking aquatic wonderland. But it also trickles southbound into the Lower Mountain Fork River, which magnificently meanders through Beavers Bend State Park before joining a Red River tributary. A few months back, the team at Blue Beaver Luxury Cabins wrote warmly about the region’s seemingly boundless acreage readily available to kayaking enthusiasts. Well, we’re back for round two! Kayaking is often regarded as an individualistic pursuit. Whereas, canoeing takes teamwork, as well as strong communication, patience, and strength. Thus, as we near the most romantic seasons of the year (autumn’s peak and winter’s frost), we’ve decided to piece together a handy Broken Bow canoe trip guide.
The Ultimate Broken Bow Canoe Trip: Paddle into the “Unknown”
Seasoned canoeists will likely avoid the Lower Mountain River Fork, mainly because canoe-owners typically seek the “unknown”—an aquatic wilderness that’s either off the beaten path or void of like-minded paddlers. While Broken Bow Lake isn’t entirely void of boaters, kayakers, and anglers, it boasts approximately 14,000 acres of azure-colored glory, including 180 miles of shoreline. You could canoe through the lake’s clear, still water for days and never cover every square mile. It’s also surrounded by 100-foot-tall pines that predate the valley’s many inhabitants. With dozens upon dozens of uninhabited islands in the lake (including a heart-shaped marvel), there’s no shortage of picnic destinations or exploration opportunities. Most Broken Bow canoe trips start and finish at Beavers Bend Marina or Carson Creek Recreation Area.
Broken Bow Canoe Rentals: Paddle Down the Mountain Fork River
Most casual travelers prefer the rushing Mountain Fork River over the calm Broken Bow Lake, as it typically doesn’t require more than a three-hour block of time. Also, most folks don’t own a canoe. Thus, the Blue Beaver team must direct guests to several local outfitters, all of which operate on the Lower Mountain Fork River. Much like a whitewater rafting or tubing expedition, all canoeing trips are one-way, with a shuttle back to home base thereafter. This undeniably scenic slice of McCurtain County winds through dense forestry, past curious wildlife and uninhabited backcountry, before hooking up with the Little River, which, eventually, spills into neighboring Arkansas.
The best Broken Bow canoe rentals include WW Trading Post and Canoe, River Rats, Wild Goose Canoe Rentals, Tree Frog, and Cowboys Canoe. For what it’s worth, WW Trading Post has the best variety of long-winded Broken Bow canoe trips, including treks on Big Eagle Creek and the Upper Mountain Fork. Oh, and Cowboys Canoe offers free hot dogs and popsicles, as well as military discounts!
Broken Bow Cabin Rentals: Find Your Adventure Basecamp
As its name suggests, Blue Beaver Luxury Cabins specializes in sophisticated vacation rentals near picturesque Beavers Bend State Park. While these Beavers Bend cabins are unquestionably opulent, you’ll also admire the rustic, backwoods charm. Guests marvel at our floor-to-ceiling fireplaces, modernized kitchens, hardwood floors, giant bay windows, outdoor hot tubs, spacious fire pits, and private acreage. Each cabin acts as a home away from home. To book a long-awaited, well-deserved autumnal escape to Broken Bow, please check availability online (or call us directly at 580-494-3400).
