The Unique, Out-Of-The-Way Beach In Oklahoma That’s Always Worth A Visit

Back in 1917, petroleum prospectors were drilling into the earth of an Oklahoma farm and the ground started to rumble. Out of the hole gushed....water. While the prospectors didn't find petroleum riches, they uncovered a different kind of treasure. Mineral waters from the failed oil well attempt have created an artesian swimming area that's the perfect place to beat the summer heat.

It's called Gage Artesian Beach and it's worth seeking out.

Here's what you need to know about this unusual yet refreshing beach.

The beach has a swimming area that's huge - it's the size of 5 football fields and it's Oklahoma's largest outdoor swimming pool. The pool has concrete walls and a natural sandy bottom.

The water has a high mineral content. While it's not good water for drinking or irrigation, it's perfect for swimming and some say it has health benefits.

The beach has been an attraction since the 1930s and there used to be a motel here. Early advertisements touted the water as good for kidney ailments, rheumatism, eczema, and stomach problems.

While some of those claims might be debatable, the pool is so full of minerals one can easily float. It's good for cannonballs too!

The pool is home to a few fish and turtles but visitors rarely see them. The depth of the pool ranges from 3-14 feet - lifeguards are on hand to keep everyone safe.

The pool is a popular place for families with small kids but water lovers of all ages enjoy this place.

Gage Artesian Beach is open from Memorial Day - Labor Day. There's a concession stand near the beach that provides swimmers with drinks and snacks and there are also bathrooms and picnic facilities. Looking for more spots for summer fun in Oklahoma? Here are some things you must add to your summer bucket list.