Underrated Sunset Beach at Oklahoma’s Lakeside Foss State Park

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Sunset Beach, Foss State Park

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Oklahoma is known for its history, culture, and industries, such as agriculture and energy. Many Native American tribes call Oklahoma home, an essential aspect of the state’s culture. Apart from that, Oklahoma is famous for college sports and Route 66. It has natural attractions, including the lush hills of the Ozarks and the striking red rock formations of the Wichita Mountains. However, you might not know Oklahoma is also home to several sandy beaches.



One such hidden treasure is Foss State Park. Located in western Oklahoma, the park has a breathtaking, often overlooked beach. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park offers numerous family-friendly activities during a weekend getaway or a day trip. It’s also an excellent destination for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Oklahoma’s natural wonders. So, if you’re looking for a place to unwind and enjoy nature’s beauty in the Sooner State, add Foss State Park to your list of must-visit places in Oklahoma.

Sunset Beach at Foss State Park

Sunset Beach at Foss Park

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Foss State Park is a beautiful natural attraction that covers a vast area of 1,749 acres. It’s situated on the banks of Foss Lake in the southwestern region of Custer County. The park is conveniently located about 100 miles east of Oklahoma City and 170 miles west of Amarillo, Texas, making it easily accessible for visitors from both states. Foss Lake is the largest lake in western Oklahoma, with 63 miles of shoreline, making it ideal for swimming and other water activities. Perhaps the most underrated feature of this park is Sunset Beach, a stunning, sandy swimming beach. Because it’s not in a highly populated area, Sunset Beach might be one of the locals’ best-kept secrets. 



The golden shore of Sunset Beach is surrounded by lush greenery. The designated swimming beach is fully equipped with all the amenities, such as picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and changing areas, making it an ideal spot for families and groups to spend a fun-filled day by the water. The park also features five palapas you can rent on the beach’s shores. These thatched-roof structures offer shade and protection from the sun, making them an ideal place to spend a lazy afternoon reading a book or enjoying the scenic beauty of the lake while the kids splash in the water.

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Camping and fun at Foss State Park

man and child fishing

If you’re searching for a tranquil and peaceful place to connect with nature for a while, Foss State Park has six campgrounds that accommodate RV, some with full hookups, or you can pitch a tent. If roughing it up isn’t your thing, you can also choose to stay in one of the two fully furnished cabins, one of which is ADA-compliant. The playgrounds will be a hit with the kids, and the added convenience of restrooms and showers will make things easier for everyone.



If you love nature, the park has 22 miles of trails that are great for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. If you’re an angler, Foss Lake has bass, walleye, crappie, and more. Along with fishing and swimming, you can also enjoy boating or jet skiing in the lake, and kayaks are available to rent onsite. Foss State Park is the ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and enjoyable outdoor experience in the heart of Oklahoma.

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.