Lake Stanley Draper

Lake Stanley Draper doesn't offer much when it comes to camping but it's a nice little day trip if you live in the OKC Metro and don't have time to get out of town. Camping is limited to primitive spots at the ATV park -- no water, no electric, no bathrooms ... just a couple of porta-potties. Rumor has it they're planning to put in some more modern spots by the water but there's nothing definitive. I was told by staff that day camping is allowed on the southwest "beach" by the dam. Draper has had a sketchy reputation for decades but the City of OKC is doing a great job of making this a great family day trip destination. Recently a bike/jog path was installed around the lake. 14 miles of paved and maintained trail for cyclists, runners, and walkers. You can tell how popular it is by all the vehicles in the parking lots at 7am! The marina has been recently remodeled and is bright and clean. Unfortunately, the grill that produced greasy cheeseburgers 40 years ago is no longer there but they have plans to add other options in the near future. Of course the main reason we go is for the kayaking. At 7 in the morning the lake is ours. We launch from a cove next to the marina parking lot near the boat ramps. Easy in and out. Jet Skis / SeaDoos, tubing, skiers, etc are usually at the south end. Most of the fishing seems to be on the north end. In addition, there are about a half-dozen fishing docks scattered around the lake. Draper isn't the most picturesque lake but there are enough trees and it's far enough away from any highways to let you relax and pretend you're more than 20 minutes from the house.