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3 DaysEasy

Prairie Waters Loop

A lake-to-lake circuit of swims, SUP/kayak put-ins, and easy shore walks at four big western-Oklahoma waters.

3 Days
220 miles
6 Counties

Itinerary Overview

Experience the refreshing waters of southwestern Oklahoma with this lake-hopping adventure. Visit four spectacular lakes offering swimming beaches, paddling opportunities, and scenic shore walks. From the granite-surrounded waters of Lake Altus-Lugert to the wide-open horizons of Tom Steed Lake, this circuit combines water recreation with stunning prairie landscapes and big-sky photography.

Highlights

  • Quartz Mountain State Park (golden hour)
  • Black Kettle National Grassland star fields (Skipout Lake)
  • Elk City Lake or Foss Lake sunrise
  • Baldy Point granite scrambles
  • Dark sky photography opportunities
  • Quiet lake sunrise viewing
  • First-come camping at Skipout Lake

Counties & Cities

Counties:

Kiowa CountyGreer CountyCaddo CountyCuster CountyWashita CountyBeckham County

Cities:

Lone WolfMountain ParkFort CobbFossElk City

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Quartz Mountain: Lake Altus-Lugert (Kiowa/Greer)
25 miles
8-10 hours

Start your water adventure at Lake Altus-Lugert with swimming at Live Oak beach area, easy shore walks, and golden hour photography at Baldy Point with wide lake vistas.

Activities Schedule

🏛️
Hub & map stop
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM

Pick up local info and check lake conditions at Quartz Mountain Lodge park hub.

Quartz Mountain Lodge
22469 Lodge Rd, Lone Wolf, OK
GPS: 34.8909, -99.3029
Duration: 30 minutes
Next: 5 minutes (2 mi)
Special Notes:
  • • Pick up local info
  • • Check lake conditions
  • • Park hub for the area
Website
🏛️
Shore walk + swim
9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Swim beach at Live Oak area (clearly marked on official park map) with easy trails nearby including New Horizon and Wichita Interpretive.

Live Oak Swim Beach Area
Live Oak/Scissortail Campground area, Quartz Mountain State Park
GPS: 34.89, -99.31
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Next: 10 minutes (5 mi)
Special Notes:
  • • Popular for summertime dips
  • • Easy trails nearby
  • • Broad coves for kayaking
  • • Lake spans Kiowa & Greer counties
📸
Golden hour viewpoint
4:30 PM - 7:15 PM

Baldy Point pull-off and short scrambles for wide lake vistas and golden hour photography.

Baldy Point
E1460 Rd, Quartz Mountain State Park
GPS: 34.8992, -99.3337
Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
Special Notes:
  • • Wide lake vistas
  • • Golden hour photography
  • • Short scrambles available
  • • 10 minutes from lodge

Overnight: Quartz Mountain Lodge or park campgrounds

Plan to stay in Quartz Mountain Lodge or park campgrounds area for easy access to next day's activities.

What to Bring

Essential Items:

  • Swimwear and quick-dry clothing
  • Towels and waterproof bags
  • SUP or kayak (if bringing own)
  • Water shoes for rocky shores
  • Sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat

Additional Recommendations:

  • Camera in waterproof case
  • Snacks and plenty of water
  • Cash for park fees
  • Folding chairs for shore relaxation

Important Notes

  • Check wind conditions - lakes can whitecap
  • Aim swims/paddles for early morning or sheltered coves
  • Swim beaches are explicitly signed at each park
  • Confirm calmest coves at park offices
  • Some beaches seasonal - verify access locally
  • Bring cash for park entrance fees
  • Download offline maps for rural areas

Quick Facts

Duration

3 Days

Difficulty

Easy

Best Season

Late spring through early fall (May-September) for best swimming

Total Distance

220 miles

Estimated Cost

$150-300 per person (excluding lodging)

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GPS Quick Reference

Quartz Mountain Lodge
34.8909, -99.3029
Live Oak Swim Beach Area
34.89, -99.31
Baldy Point
34.8992, -99.3337

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