Rentals by Carol

Stratford, Oklahoma

Scissortail Retreat

Four homes on a quiet, parklike property with two private lakes near Stratford, Oklahoma, with complimentary kayaks, fishing, a hot tub and room to roam.

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Aerial view of the private lake, ringed by trees and open fields: kayak, fish from the bank or boat, hike around the property and enjoy the quiet of a country setting

About Scissortail Retreat

Scissortail Retreat is our family's lakeside property just outside Stratford, in the rolling countryside of southern Oklahoma. Four homes sit on a quiet, parklike property with two private lakes, wide lawns and big shade trees, and each has a covered patio looking out over the grounds.

Days here are simple. Paddle one of the complimentary kayaks, take the little bass boat out, or fish from the bank or the dock; guests say the lake is a hidden gem for bass. Read a book in a swing by the water, let the kids run on the lawn, then grill on the patio and watch the sun go down over the lake. At night, the country skies are dark and full of stars.

Private Lakeside Retreat

Enjoy a quiet and private lakefront alternative to Broken Bow, no traffic, just a large property with plenty of room to stretch out and build memories.

Shared with the other guests

The kayaks, bass boat, game room and grounds are shared by the guests of all the homes. The hot tub has a privacy panel. Guests coordinate so each group can have their own private time.

The Little Wren Shop

Our small on-site shop is open around the clock, with homemade baked goods, cold drinks and sweet snacks, plus T-shirts, caps, beaded bracelets, flip-flops and other handy extras for a day by the water.

For every guest

  • Two private lakes
  • Complimentary kayaks, paddles and life jackets
  • A two-person bass boat with a trolling motor, also complimentary
  • Fishing from the bank, the dock or a boat
  • Shared hot tub with a privacy panel
  • Game room with toys, board games and outside toys
  • The Little Wren Shop: baked goods, drinks and gifts, open 24/7
  • Swings by the lake and a swing set for the kids
  • Covered patios with grills, looking out over the grounds
  • Wide lawns and room to roam, with pet-friendly homes
  • Dark, starry country skies
  • Level 2 EV Charger, complimentary

The homes at Scissortail Retreat

Each home is booked on its own, with its own kitchen and patio. Everything above is shared.

Weddings, reunions and retreats

Rent Cardinal House, Heron House, Mallard House and The Cottage together: 8 bedrooms that sleep up to 20, with the lakes and grounds for your group.

Heron House, Mallard House, Cardinal House and The Cottage share the grounds by the lake, so together they make an easy base for a wedding party, a family reunion or a group retreat: everyone stays close, with the lawns and the water for gathering.

Tell us about your plans with the form: your dates, about how many people will attend and how many will stay overnight. We will get back to you with availability, pricing and what's possible on site.

Ask about your event

Optional.

Exact dates, or a month and how flexible you are.

Everyone at the event, not only overnight guests.

Optional. Ceremony or reception on site, how many staying overnight, anything else we should know.

Things to do near Stratford

Restaurants

  • Stratford House Coffee

    Stratford, OK

    Enjoy a specialty coffee, latte, hot chocolate and more. Fresh breads and pastries, savory and sweet breakfast items, and a lunch menu that includes sandwiches and salads. Check out their facebook page for current hours and specials.

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  • Mc Gee's Cafe

    440 W. Main St., Stratford, OK, OK

    Welcoming hometown American restaurant serving a wide variety of homestyle cooking. Hours: Wednesday 8 AM–3 PM Thursday 8 AM–3 PM Friday 8 AM–8 PM Saturday 8 AM–3 PM Sunday Closed Monday 8 AM–8 PM Tuesday Closed

  • Peachy's Fuel N Eats

    425 W Smith St., Stratford, OK, OK

    Fuel • Drinks • Hot Food • Convenience. Chicken Strips, Lil Caesars Pizza, and other hot food.

Parks and attractions

  • Chickasaw Cultural Center

    Sulphur, OK

    The Chickasaw Nation's cultural center in Sulphur, with exhibits, a traditional village and live demonstrations. A rewarding half-day for all ages.

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  • Chickasaw National Recreation Area

    Sulphur, OK

    A national park area of springs, creeks and swimming holes, with shaded trails and the Lake of the Arbuckles. Little Niagara is a favorite on hot days.

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  • Turner Falls Park

    Davis, OK

    Oklahoma's tallest waterfall, in the Arbuckle Mountains near Davis, with a natural swimming area, hiking trails and caves to explore.

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  • Wintersmith Park

    Ada, OK

    A historic park on the edge of Ada with a small lake, trails, bridges, historic schoolhouses and cabins, and a playground.

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Sports Event

  • Oklahoma City 2028 Olympics

    Oklahoma City, OK, OK

    In July 2028, the Olympic Games are coming to Oklahoma City. OKC will host Olympic canoe slalom at the Riversport whitewater center and the softball tournament at Devon Park, home of the Women’s College World Series. These are the only Olympic events held outside California, so this is a rare chance to see the world’s best athletes close to home. Our Edmond homes are a short drive from both venues, with room for your whole family or group to spread out after a big day. Book early, because the summer of 2028 will be busy. We look forward to hosting you.

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Spa and massage

Activities

Services

  • Double A Grocery

    Stratford, OK

    A local grocery in Stratford for stocking up during your stay.

  • Hinkle's Fried Pies

    Stratford, OK

    A Stratford produce stand known for its fried pies. Don't leave town without trying one.

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  • Hunt Brothers Pizza

    Stratford, OK

    Pizza to go, close to Scissortail Retreat.

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Shopping

What guests say

5.0 out of 5 stars

Is a wonderful, relaxing place where three couples could reconnect after three years apart. Everyone enjoyed the site and made comments about coming back with their families at some time.

5.0 out of 5 stars

Is a wonderful, relaxing place where three couples could reconnect after three years apart. Everyone enjoyed the site and made comments about coming back with their families at some time.
Charles M.Stayed at Cardinal House, Stratford · October 2026
Charles M.Stayed at Cardinal House, Stratford · October 2026

5.0 out of 5 stars

The property was so beautiful. Carol was very welcoming and made sure we felt at home. We would recommend to anyone and will stay again.

5.0 out of 5 stars

The property was so beautiful. Carol was very welcoming and made sure we felt at home. We would recommend to anyone and will stay again.
Melissa T.Stayed at The Cottage, Stratford · October 2026
Melissa T.Stayed at The Cottage, Stratford · October 2026

Feels like home

5.0 out of 5 stars

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Caught probably 30 or so fish in 2 hrs! Property was well kept and house was very nice. We will come stay again! Feels like home!

Feels like home

5.0 out of 5 stars

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Caught probably 30 or so fish in 2 hrs! Property was well kept and house was very nice. We will come stay again! Feels like home!
Trent F.Stayed at Heron House, Stratford · October 2026
Trent F.Stayed at Heron House, Stratford · October 2026

Questions guests ask

Is there an extra fee for the kayaks and boats?

No. The kayaks and boats are included in your stay. Please be courteous to other guests waiting to use them, return them where and as you found them, and turn the kayaks and canoes upside down so rain does not fill them.

Is fishing equipment provided?

Basic fishing equipment is in the shed by the store. We do not provide lures or bait; fishing worms are for sale in Stratford at the Feed Store and at the quick shop at the four-way stop.

Is the hot tub private?

No. There is one hot tub shared by the four homes, but many guests do not use it, so scheduling has not been a problem. Please be courteous to others who are waiting, do not wear street clothes in the hot tub, and shower before using it, especially after time on the pond: pond water does not work well in the hot tub.

Can I bring my own boat?

You can bring your own kayak or canoe.

All questions