Lake Wayne Wallace Loop

The Lake Wayne Wallace Loop circles the scenic reservoir at the heart of Robbers Cave State Park, combining lakeside walking with forest trails through the shortleaf pine and post oak woodland that characterizes the Ouachita Mountains of eastern Oklahoma. The lake was created as part of the state park development and now serves as the recreational centerpiece of the property, offering fishing for bass, catfish, and crappie from its banks and from small boats launched at the park ramp. White-tailed deer are commonly seen along the forested trail sections, particularly in the early morning and evening hours when they emerge from cover to browse near the water. Wild turkey, great blue herons, and numerous waterfowl species use the lake and its vegetated margins as habitat throughout the year. The trail surface is generally smooth and well-maintained, making this loop suitable for most hikers including families with children. The pine forest provides welcome shade during summer months when temperatures in eastern Oklahoma can climb significantly. The loop passes through several habitat types including upland pine forest, hardwood bottomland, and open meadows adjacent to the lake shoreline.