Cookson borders the northeastern side of Lake Tenkiller, which is located on the Illinois River. Its lakeside setting shapes the choice of activities: diving, fishing and boat rentals are the main attractions at the lake. Those who would also like to experience a different landscape will find upland meadows, forests and hills in Cookson WMA.
Lake Tenkiller: Dive Sites and Fishing
Lake Tenkiller’s underwater scuba park lets visitors explore a sunken airplane, a helicopter, a school bus and two boats. Diving here is about more than just the underwater world—it also offers the chance to explore these submerged objects. The park provides a specific point of interest for anyone interested in wreck and underwater exploration.
The lake also offers a wide range of fishing: species mentioned include various types of bass, crappie, catfish, bream, walleye and rainbow trout. Which species are available and what fishing conditions are like can vary by season. Those who would rather spend time on the water on a boat tour can rent pontoon boats at Cookson Bend Resort & Marina on Lake Tenkiller. Kayaks are available to rent locally at Cookson Resort & General Store. Availability and conditions can change, so it’s best to check in advance.
Nearby Terrapin Creek Bridge offers a historical connection to the area. It was part of the original county road connecting Cookson and Buckhorn. This adds a piece of local transportation and community history to the lakeside activities, without requiring visitors to follow a particular route.
Landscape and Wildlife in Cookson WMA
Cookson WMA covers about 15,280 acres in southeastern Cherokee County and southwestern Adair County. It lies about six miles east of Cookson on Bluetop Road. The landscape combines upland meadows and oak-hickory forests with rolling, rocky and relatively steep hills. The mix of more open areas, forest and hilly terrain gives the area a distinctly different character from the lakeshore.
The wildlife is also seasonal: bald eagles occasionally winter at Buzzard Lake in Cookson WMA. A sighting is not guaranteed, but winter is the time of year when these birds may be seen there. The WMA provides public access, including opportunities for archery deer hunting and some controlled deer hunts. These hunting opportunities are subject to the season and regulations.
Where to Stay and Plan Your Visit
For tent and RV trips, Cookson Bend Campground is a specific overnight option. It has 65 non-electric tent sites and 64 RV sites. This lets you choose between a tent site without electricity and a designated RV site. Site availability can change, so it’s a good idea to check before your trip.
The campground has a swimming beach and a playground. There are also opportunities for lakeside hiking, as well as boating and fishing via boat ramps. This combination brings overnight stays and various waterside activities together in one place. Individual facilities and their operations can change; check the latest information before your visit.
For supplies, Cookson Resort & General Store stocks groceries, fuel and gifts; Cookson Cafe is also located there. If you’re planning to get food or fuel, you can include these options in your travel plans and check operating details in advance. Together with the campground, fishing opportunities and boat rentals, this offers a choice between staying at your own campsite and enjoying activities on the lake.
Discover more destinations: Park Hill, Tahlequah.
Go to the main travel overview: Cherokee.
