OKLAHOMA

Explore nature underwater and topside in this landlocked prairie state

- JENNIFER IDOL

Oklahoma is defined by the same type of prairie landscape as northern Texas and neighboring dive communities in both states trade weekend experiences in each state’s reservoirs and lakes. Distances here are measured in time instead of miles because destinations lie within a two- to three-hour drive of one another. Since these dive sites are remote, it’s best to bring all the gear you’ll need for your dives.

As a Texan, I begin my Oklahoma journeys by diving in Lake Murray, a site often used for dive training by Dallas-based instructors. Divers from Kansas and Arkansas looking to stay closer to home often frequent a handful of popular dive sites on the eastern side of Oklahoma.

Boats, platforms, and motorcycles at Lake Murray’s Marietta Landing have been sunk throughout the years to provide attractions for divers. However, I find the variety of fish compelling, especially on shallow dives, and have seen a number of fish that include freshwater drum, walleye and logperch. Summers can be sweltering. I prefer diving the region in spring and fall.