Atoka Wildlife Management Area
By: Buddy Prather, Biologist at Atoka, McGee Creek, and Stringtown WMA’s. Phone: (580) 346-7664.
Area Description:
Atoka WMA covers 6,440 acres in Atoka County
and is located 12 miles north of Atoka on Hwy 69. Terrain within the WMA ranges
from steep to moderately steep. Vegetation consists mainly of oak-hickory
association with scattered openings. The average precipitation of the area is
about 52 inches annually.
Game Species of Interest:
Quail: Bobwhite quail are present in fair numbers.
Deer: White-tailed deer are present in good numbers.
Turkey: Eastern wild turkey are present in good numbers but are highly sought after.
Rabbit: Cottontails are present but not abundant.
Furbearers: Coyote, bobcat and raccoon are available.
Dove: Very limited numbers occur for during annual migration.
Waterfowl: A few wood ducks and mallards can be found on Bluestem Lake and area ponds.
Squirrel: Fox and gray squirrels are present in good numbers.
Nongame Species of Interest:
Bald eagle: Eagles winter on nearby Atoka and McGee Creek lakes.
Owls: Numerous species exist. The Screech owl is the most abundant.
Description of Fish and
Wildlife Management Practices:
Approximately 70 acres of wildlife habitat plots are maintained and planted
annually. Habitat is also manipulated annually by prescribed fire with three
year rotational patterns of 2000 acres.
Camping and Facilities:
One designated primitive camping area is offered on the area. Additional camping
and cabin rental can be obtained through the McGee Creek State Park (580)
889-5822 while both lodging and restaurants are available in Atoka and
McAlester. The Atoka City Hall can be reached at (580) 889-3341.
Fishing Opportunities:
Fishing opportunity consist of numerous ponds and Bluestem Lake. Atoka Lake is
also located one mile west of the management area, and is know for its good
catfish angling. Largemouth bass, crappie and sunfish are also present.