For folks trying to narrow down where exactly they would like to spend a day in the beautiful state of Oklahoma, it can definitely seem overwhelming. Allow us to make a suggestion and take you on a relaxing journey to one of our very favorite places for a beautiful day trip, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Sooner state.

Wake up early and head out – Broken Bow Lake and a day of relaxation is waiting for you! Make sure to bring sunscreen, water, and your favorite walking or hiking shoes.

Arrive at dawn and watch the sun come up over the trees. The sleepy lake slowly awakes, ready to take on the day with you. Listen as the birds begin chirping and the day begins. If you'd like to know exactly what time the sunrise will begin, you can check on your favorite weather forecast website. They usually provide data about sunsets and moonsets, and it takes the guessing out of this part!

There's an astonishing 180 miles of shoreline and the lake itself stretches for 14,000 acres.

There's nearly no way anyone could stroll around the entire lake in one day. Maybe you could make it a weekend trip instead! The surrounding forest is lush, green, and perfect. The trees offer a lot of shade and sanctuary, and if you find yourself exhausted at any point, you can seek respite beneath them. No need to rush today!

After the sun has come up, and you've had your fill of both beachcombing and taking in the majesty of Broken Bow Lake, you can get started on a fabulous nature hike.

Get to know the forest more intimately! There are two hiking trails to choose from, and they're both stunningly gorgeous – so we'll let you take your pick here. The good news is that you can't possibly pick wrong!

After you've worked up a healthy sweat and passed some hours by oh-so-quickly, you'll definitely want to cool off in the delightfully cool water.

It's seemingly perfect year-round, making it very popular even in winter – but today is your day! Swimming is allowed – and encouraged – in several parts of the lake. Make sure to swim in an area cleared for swimmers, and keep a close eye on your surroundings. Stay safe!

You can kill a long time – likely most of your afternoon – swimming in the clear water of Broken Bow, but there's still more to do!

Broken Bow is great for fishing year-round, with plenty of bass and trout at your beckoning. Spend your remaining hours lazing on a rented boat, either waiting for fish to bite, or just taking precious time for yourself.

As the sun sets, take some time to think about the people and things in your world that make you just as happy as a well-needed day trip.

Bask in this peace – it's not often we get chances to zen out with nature. Is there anything better than watching the sun disappear while relaxing on peaceful waters? We don't think so.

If you decide that one day was just not enough (and we can't blame you), never fear! There are campgrounds at and around Broken Bow Lake, as well as lodging nearby in such accommodations as luxury and cozy vacation cabins. For more information, alternative ideas for things to do during your day, and much more, have a loot at Broken Bow Lake's official page here.

Have you ever taken a you-day and escaped to nature to recharge? Tell us those relaxing stories in the comments!