Lake Wister is located in the San Bois Mountains on the Poteau River -- the only river that flows north in Oklahoma. Wister Lake was authorized for flood control and conservation by the Flood Control Act of 1938. The project was designed and built by the Tulsa District Corps of Engineers. Construction began in April 1946, and the project was placed in full flood control operation in December 1949. One of the most significant things about Wister Lake is that the Wister Project is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The area around Wister Lake has been inhabited for thousands of years. Numerous mounds created by the prehistoric Native Americans still exist in the area. Visitors to Wister Lake will find a variety of sightseeing opportunities to enjoy. Organized groups from distant points come to this area annually to see the magnificent fall foliage which consists of beautiful trees, native grasses, and wild flowers. This man-made lake offers many opportunities for outdoor fun and sports. In addition to hunting, fishing, camping, picnicking and swimming, there is hunting, bird watching, and photography. Local Attractions of Interest The home of Peter Conser, leader of the famed Choctaw Lighthorse police or soldiers is located three miles west of Hodgens. Conser operated a blacksmith shop, gristmill, general store, and post office. Excellent horses were always kept in the rail corral around the barn for the Choctaw Lighthorsemen. The home of the late US Senator and Mrs. Robert S. Kerr is located about five miles southwest of Poteau. The magnificent mansion, containing many of the late Senator's office furnishings and personal items, is now the Kerr museum, conference center, and a bed and breakfast facility. Also in this area is the Heavener Runestone. The runestone is believed to be a land claim made by a Viking explorer prior to 1000 A.D. It is located in the Heavener Runestone State Park near the city of Heavener. The nearby Quachita Mountains is a gateway to the beautiful Quachita National Forest. Located within the National Forest is the Winding Stair National Scenic Byway.

From Wister, 2 miles east on US 270.