Zink Lake To Open Labor Day Weekend With Pedestrian Bridge, More Parking

Zink Lake and a new pedestrian bridge on the Arkansas River in Tulsa will open Labor Day weekend. River Parks anticipates increased visitor traffic in the area.

The big kickoff is less than 21 days away, and a new parking lot is expected to be completed by then. This is just one of the many improvements underway.

“Our hope is that thousands of people will come with their friends and family,” said Renee McKenney, president of Tulsa Regional Tourism. The expanded parking lot on the east bank of the river will add more than 200 new spaces to accommodate the expected demand.

The view of the river has improved after River Parks cleared overgrowth that previously blocked the sight. “It’s a more inviting experience, so you don’t feel like you’re hiking through the woods to engage with the waterfront,” said Jeff Edwards, River Parks executive director.

Street parking along Riverside has been sufficient, and the new parking spaces will further increase capacity. Renovations are underway for the bathrooms and water fountains on the east side.

Both sides of the riverbank will see improvements as the area becomes a more popular spot for recreation. “This is an opportunity for us to show the citizens of Tulsa what Zink Lake and the whitewater flume can offer,” Edwards added.

On the west side, Arbor Park is under construction to provide additional parking and new bathrooms, with trail access leading south to the new bridge.

“Now you have connectivity, and that makes a big difference,” McKenney said. “You can walk across the bridge, use it for jogging, and participate in or watch the raft race and fun run.”

The lake will be filled before Labor Day weekend, and the new dam gates will be operational to accommodate the raft race and the influx of visitors.

For tickets to the Big Dam Party, CLICK HERE.

For Zink Lake information from River Parks, CLICK HERE.

For more info from the City of Tulsa, CLICK HERE.