Sunshine, shade or water: There's plenty to do in Oklahoma this July 4

Celebrations capped with fireworks displays are scheduled for just about every corner of the state, but with temperatures expected near or above 100 degrees, some Oklahomans may be satisfied with a simple dip in a lake.

Still others will opt for backyard barbecues or a trip to the local movie theater.

“It's not going to be pretty,” said Daryl Williams, a forecaster with the National Weather Service in Norman. “Right now, the forecast in the metro is calling for a high of about 98 degrees, and it's not much different around the rest of the state.”

If you are planning to go outdoors, you might consider packing a cooler with cold food and drinks — ice cream and watermelon are go-to's — or situate yourself in or around one of the state's 200 lakes.

Fishing is a classic way to celebrate the country's birthday, said Micah Holmes, information supervisor at the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.

The department will host free family fishing clinics at Arcadia Lake in Edmond and in Jenks, and whether it's hot or not, the bass, crappie and catfish are sure to be jumping, Holmes said.

“A lot of times the heat will affect the fisherman more than the fish,” he said. “But generally speaking, the lakes are in really good shape right now, especially with where we were last year.”

If you are planning to hit a lake or state park, be sure to check out the new website hosted by the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department: www.checkmyoklake.com. There, you can check out lake conditions, review maps of major lakes and state parks, download a fishing guide and catch some tips on water safety, said Sandy Pantlik, department spokesman.