The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Tulsa District, invites you to experience the hidden wonders of the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System. Chouteau Lock and Dam 17 project was primarily constructed for the improvement of the Arkansas River and its tributaries for commercial barge traffic; however, it also offers recreation and resource opportunities. With three recreation areas, the river parks offer a nice change from the normal lake experience.
Chouteau is the first lock and dam structure on the Verdigris River after the navigation channel leaves the main stem of the Arkansas River. The lock is approximately four miles northwest of Okay, in Wagoner County, Oklahoma. The Lock 17 pool provides 18.7 miles of navigable waters, extending upstream to Newt Graham Lock and Dam 18.