Bell Cow Lake
Equestrian Trails and Campground
Located in Chandler, Oklahoma
 
*TRAIL UPDATE May 20th 2008* I am happy to report that the work weekend went very well. We had a great turn out and got 95% of the trails done. All the water crossing have been check and are in great shape. The other 5% of trail should be checked and marked by May 30th. I would like to thank all the wonderful hard working volunteers. It would have taken us weeks to do what they got done in one day. Happy Trails! Angela Bridge, Trail Volunteer ************************************************************************* THE LOCATION Chandler is located right off the Turner Turnpike (I-44) between Oklahoma City and Tulsa. To get to Bell Cow Lake equestrian campground and trails (lake area C), you should take Hwy. 18 north from Chandler. This will be a left turn past the toll gate if you use the turnpike. Just north of town Hwy. 18 crosses over the turnpike. Just beyond, a green and white sign will direct you to turn left (west) on a blacktop road to the Chandler lakes. After a straight stretch, the main road makes a wide turn to the right. Do not take the turn but go straight which is still heading west. The equestrian campground is about 2 miles further on and is well marked. THE CAMPGROUND The equestrian campgrounds are public with day and overnight camping. The camp is big, open, and well-maintained. There is room for even the largest trailers. Primitive and RV sites are available with picket poles. RV sites have electrical hook-up, water, picnic table, and grills. There are clean restrooms with hot showers. A manure dump station is located in the campground. You are asked to deposit your bagged manure and old hay at this location. There is also a horse cleaning area with a chute where you can hose down your horse or give them a bath. The lighted pavilion is handy for meetings or family reunion. THE TRAILS The trails which may be shared with bicyclists and hikers consist of open pasture, trees and woods, and even some rocks. Most of the trails parallels the lake shore. These are easy trails suitable for most beginners. There are two trails; each is an out and back starting from the horse campground. Flat Rock Trail has a total of 12.4 miles, and Red Bud Trail has a total of 22 miles. Please do not attempt to ride all the way around the lake. This is not possible due to fencing and boggy ground. The trails are well marked with orange ribbon and red plastic diamonds. Flat Rock Trail has a well-worn path so no way to get lost. OTHER ACTIVITIES Other family activities are available. You can bring your fishing or ski boat (permit required). Area C contains a boat ramp, 2 lighted pavilions, swimming beach, volley ball court, basketball hoop, and several picnic spaces with tables and grills. There is also a lighted fishing dock in Area D. Bell Cow Lake is known for some of the best bass fishing in the state. The Chandler golf course is just 3 miles away between the two lakes.