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Cool summer adventures await at Nichols Park
A: Main
May 9, 2025
Cool summer adventures await at Nichols Park
By PATRICK FORD Editor,

With summer around the corner, Henryetta’s Nichols Park is making waves – literally! A brand-new kayak rental option is now available for those looking to paddle into fun while staying cool on the 17-acre lake.

Though the final touches are still being made and signage hasn’t yet been posted, visitors can already rent kayaks through the easy-touse Rent.Fun app, available on smartphones. A simple scan of a QR code gets you started. Before you know it, you’re gliding across the water under Oklahoma’s sunny skies.

“It’s going to be a great summer at Nichols Park,” one early user said after giving the new kayak system a try. “The app was super easy to use, and there’s a built-in messaging system if you run into any issues.”

Helpful Tip: Be sure to return the kayak to the lock-up cage and check it back in via the app when you’re finished – rental is charged by the hour, even if you go over by just a few minutes.

In addition to this new feature, park visitors will notice another exciting improvement: a freshly laid sidewalk connecting the sandy beach area to the floating dock, making access safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

Nichols Park, just two miles south of Henryetta, has long been a gem of the community. Developed in the late 1930s and early ‘40s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and National Park Service, the park spans over 300 acres. Its stone shelter houses, shady picnic areas and native charm offer a nostalgic yet vibrant atmosphere for family fun.

Here’s what’s waiting for you at Nichols Park this summer:

• Kayaking on the calm, scenic lake

• Free fishing for bass, catfish, crappie, sunfish and more (following state regulations)

• Swimming at the beach

• Floating fishing docks

• Picnicking in historic stone shelters

• 54-hole disc golf course

• Newly updated sand volleyball court

• Rodeo arena with events in June and Labor Day weekend

• ATV trails across 300 acres of off-road adventure Manually-powered watercraft like kayaks and paddle boards are allowed, but keep in mind that motorized boats are not permitted to preserve the peaceful vibe and safety of the lake.

So whether you’re a local or just visiting, Nichols Park is your go-to summer escape. With new amenities like kayak rentals and walkways enhancing the experience, it’s time to grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic and hit the water.

Download the Rent.Fun app now to get started. See you at the lake!

Legislative Forum keeps citizens informed on state issues
A: Main
Legislative Forum keeps citizens informed on state issues
March 11, 2026
Community members gathered recently for the Henryetta Chamber of Commerce’s monthly Legislative Forum, held the first Friday of each month at 11:30 a.m. in the meeting room at Shoney’s. The forum, whi...
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Rep. Fetgatter to not seek reelection
A: Main, Main...
Rep. Fetgatter to not seek reelection
March 11, 2026
House Tribal and External Affairs Leader Rep. Scott Fetgatter, R-Okmulgee, today announced he will not seek reelection for his final legislative term.First elected to the House in 2016, Fetgatter will...
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EF-3 tornado leaves heartbreak in Beggs
A: Main
EF-3 tornado leaves heartbreak in Beggs
March 11, 2026
In a matter of minutes on the evening of March 6, a powerful tornado tore through the heart of Okmulgee County, leaving behind devastation, heartbreak and loss. Yet in the midst of tragedy, the commun...
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Voter registration deadline is Friday for April elections
March 11, 2026
Friday, March 13, is the last day for eligible residents to apply for voter registration to vote in the April 7 elections.The April election is a multi-entity election, including the following:• Henry...
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Commissioners approve routine business
March 11, 2026
The Okmulgee County Board of County Commissioners met Monday morning, March 9, for their regular weekly meeting at the Okmulgee County Courthouse, approving a series of routine administrative items wh...
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County Disaster Emergency Proclamation
March 11, 2026
WHEREAS, on March 06, 2026, and continuing, several severe storms containing high winds, hail, torrential rain, and flooding, and tornadoes, having occurred in Okmulgee County, Oklahoma, causing known...
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