Our beautiful Lake was created in 1940 with the completion of the historic Pensacola Dam on the Grand (also known as the Neosho) River. The world's longest multiple arch dam, the massive reservoir holds 46,500 surface acres at an average surface level of 742 feet above sea level. Tours of the dam are offered in the summer. When you travel to Grand Lake from the north, you may cross over Sailboat Bridge in Grove. With it's pedestrian and bike lane, Sailboat bridge is a great place to enjoy the picturesque views of this water wonderland.

 Grove, Often referred to as the "Gateway to Grand Lake" is the lakes largest city with many fine restaurants, specialty and craft shops, and antique stores. The city host several events throughout the year including music festivals, Grovefest with it's annual chili and barbecue contest, the Grand Lake Boat & Travel Show, regular 50's Cruise Nights and Christmas light displays. One of Groves most exciting events is the annual Pelican Festival celebrating the annual migration of large flocks of American White Pelicans to Grove every fall. There's even more in Grove: a Mississippi-style paddlewheel riverboat; full service marinas; golf courses; parks; swimming pools; picnic shelters; and camping; historic museums; music shows and nationally renowned botanical gardens.

Monkey Island and West Grand Lake is where to go if you want diversity. There is plenty of appeal for it's rural setting as well as home to some great fishing, nightlife and shopping. Nature lovers can enjoy horseback riding on Monkey Island or walk along Bernice State Park's nature trails. Or, cruise miles of back roads on foot or bicycle Motels, condos, cabins and RV parks offer a variety of accommodations. There are fantastic private homes, condominiums and golf courses. You'll find several marinas that will rent the perfect lake transportation, help you stock your cooler and send you off for all the fun you can handle.

Monkey Island is the hub of Grand Lakes night life. Monkey Island offers lots of entertainment ranging from a 50's style night club to live entertainment year round. Some of the lakes best restaurants are located here. If you're lucky enough, you might even catch one on Monkey Island's spirited celebrations including the Egret Festival in September. The Island is easy to reach. By land, it's a short drive off I-44. Small planes and jets from Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Wichita, Joplin, Dallas, Kansas City and Little Rock land at the Grand Lake Regional Airport.

Bernice, Known for it's outstanding crappie and bass fishing, Bernice is one of Grand lakes fishing hot spots. Nostalgia buffs visit Aften to travel its nine-mile stretch of original Route 66 running through town. In late June rodeo fans come for the Ted Jones Memorial Rodeo. Winding around Afton and into Grand Lake , Horse Creek is a good spot for great fishing and water sports. Pelicans, geese and ducks migrate through the area in the fall and winter. Bald Eagles and Osprey winter in the Horse Creek area.