Oklahoma's Gorgeous Lakefront Resort City Renowned For Fishing Is Known As The 'Striped Bass Capital Of The World'

Tucked into the rolling green hills of northeastern Oklahoma is a small lakefront city with big opportunities for fun. Mannford, Oklahoma, is a town of about 3,500 people hidden away in Oklahoma's "Green Country," a lake-filled region that blends wild natural beauty and urban charm. Sitting about 30 minutes west of Tulsa, Mannford offers a peaceful escape from the big city while still providing access to all of Tulsa's amenities. Nicknamed the "Striped Bass Capital of the World," Mannford's sparkling lakes and winding rivers make it a haven for anglers chasing their next big catch. This outdoorsy town combines small-town warmth with resort-style recreation, making it the perfect spot for a family vacation or weekend fishing trip.

The best way to get to Mannford is to fly into Tulsa International Airport. From there, it's a quick 35-minute drive over rolling hills and past lakes to Mannford. Once you arrive, Mannford is easy to get around, whether you're headed to the marina, exploring nearby parks, or checking into your lakeside cabin. For those traveling by RV or camper, the town's campgrounds make it easy to set up right near the water. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a big fishing excursion, Mannford feels worlds away from city life yet close enough for spontaneous adventures.

Northeastern Oklahoma may not be the most glamorous vacation destination, but it's heaven for anglers. Filled with places like Gore, the "Trout Capital of Oklahoma," and Grand Lake O' the Cherokees, a vibrant resort lake tucked into the Ozark foothills, this part of the state is quite the fishing getaway. But one of the best places in the region for fishing is Mannford, Oklahoma. The town is nestled on the shores of Keystone Lake, which is known in particular for its population of striped bass, plus other types of fish like sand bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and record-breaking paddlefish. 

Getting down to the lake is a breeze. There are multiple recreation areas, boat ramps, and courtesy docks you can use to access the lake. Plus, a good portion of the land surrounding the lake is public, meaning there are abundant opportunities for shore fishing. Meanwhile, besides Keystone Lake, there are seven other lakes within 15 miles of Mannford, giving anglers even more waters to explore. Whether you're casting in on your own or heading out on a guided fishing tour, you're sure to reel in an unforgettable day on the water. Local outfitters offer everything from striped bass charters to paddlefish excursions, making it easy for beginners and pros alike to find their ideal catch. And when the day winds down, Mannford's peaceful lake views, wooded shorelines, and easy-going vibe make it the kind of place you'll want to linger long after you've packed up your tackle box.

As far as lodgings go, Mannford has a few different options. If you want to spend the weekend enjoying the great outdoors, the Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Keystone Lake is a standout option that's fun for the whole family. This resort-style campground has a variety of campsites ranging from primitive tent camping to sites with full RV hookups. Besides merely camping, Jellystone Park offers tons of recreation opportunities. To cool off on a hot day, take a dip in the pool, bring the kids to the splash pad, or try your hand at the floating obstacle course on Keystone Lake. This resort also hosts outdoor movie nights and has basketball and volleyball courts for when you want to spend time outdoors without donning your swimsuit. Whether you're winding down after a long day of fishing or simply soaking in lakeside views, Jellystone provides both convenience and fun.

If you prefer a more laid-back camping experience, Mannford has plenty of other options. Keystone State Park is home to three campgrounds: Red Carpet, Green Country, and Lake Country. You can find tent and RV sites at any of the three, or you can choose to stay in a furnished cabin. With easy access to the lake and amenities like showers and outdoor grills, these campgrounds are the perfect base camp for spending the weekend out on the water. And if camping isn't your style, there are plenty of vacation rentals in town that offer a more comfortable stay without sacrificing access to the lake.