Stringtown Wildlife Management Area
By: Buddy Prather, Biologist at Atoka, McGee Creek and Stringtown WMA’s. Phone: (580) 346-7664.
Area Description:
Stringtown WMA covers 2,260 acres of
south-central Atoka County and is located 7 miles east of Stringtown on Greasy
Bend road. Terrain within the WMA ranges from steep to moderately steep.
Vegetation consists of oak-pine association. The average precipitation of the
area is about 52 inches annually.
WMA Driving Directions:
From Stringtown: At the intersection of U.S. Hwy
69 and State Hwy 43, 0.6 miles east to “Y” in the road, turn right onto Greasy
Bend Rd, 7 miles east to WMA sign. Turn right into campgrounds.
Game Species of Interest:
Quail: Bobwhite quail are present in fair numbers.
Deer: White-tailed deer are present in good numbers but are highly sought after.
Turkey: Eastern wild turkey are present in fair numbers but are highly sought after.
Rabbit: Cottontails are present but not abundant.
Furbearers: Coyote, bobcat and raccoon are available.
Dove: Occur in small numbers for short periods during annual migration.
Waterfowl: A few wood ducks can be found on Potapo Creek.
Squirrel: Fox and gray squirrels are present in good numbers.
Nongame Species of Interest:
Bald eagle: Eagles winter on nearby McGee Creek Lake.
Owls: Numerous species exist. The Screech owl is the most abundant.
Other: Numerous bird species exist, providing birders with ample watching opportunities.
Description of Fish and
Wildlife Management Practices:
Approximately 15 acres of wildlife habitat plots are maintained and planted
annually. Habitat manipulations are approached annually by prescribed fire
with three year rotational patterns of 750 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:
Very limited fishing opportunity
exists for bass and sunfish in Patapo Creek. Fugate Lake (approx 10 acres or
less) is a remote walk-in only fishing area with fair opportunities for bass,
catfish and sunfish.
Maps:
Maps available at headquarters and stationary map boxes at entrances.
Stringtown WMA Map - best general purpose map, pdf format (8.5x11)
Stringtown WMA Map - interactive map with aerial photography available
Regulations: Seasons on public lands section of hunting regulations