The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Oklahoma Who Loves The Outdoors
By Ashley|Updated on December 10, 2023(Originally published August 11, 2016)
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Ashley
Author
Ashley has lived in Oklahoma for 30 years and is the Oklahoma staff writer for onlyinyourstate.com. When she isn't writing about Oklahoma, she enjoys visiting the beach and exploring new areas.
Just think, in a few short months the weather is going to be heavenly here in the Sooner State, and you’ll be looking for outdoor things to do in Oklahoma’s fresh air. Of course, we have the beautiful Turner Falls and Natural State Park, but we went searching a little deeper for a few more hidden gems in the state. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, boating or just relaxing, you’ll want to add these 10 places to your bucket list if you love the outdoors.
1. Spavinaw Area at Grand Lake State Park, Spavinaw
Located below Spavinaw Lake, clear, turquoise water falls from the spillway and into a stream lined with stunning Dogwood trees. Visitors can enjoy camping, swimming, fishing, hunting, and hiking. The area is near Grand Lake which is also full of outdoor activities to enjoy in a gorgeous setting. Learn more about the Spavinaw Area at Grand Lake State Park on the Travek Oklahoma website.
2. McGee Creek State Park, Atoka
McGee Creek State Park, 5798 S McGee Creek Lake Rd, Atoka, OK 74525, USA
Located on the southwestern edge of the Ouachita Mountains, this 2,600-acre park is full of outdoor activities. From fishing to swimming to hiking, McGee Creek is the perfect place to try it all. Learn more about McGee Creek State Park and the outdoor activities in Oklahoma it offers.
The beautiful canyons in Roman Nose State Park make this spot a picturesque outdoor oasis. Visitors can rent tepees, camp outdoors, hike to a hidden waterfall cave, golf, fish and so much more. The park has a modern, newly-remodeled lodge that rents guest rooms for those looking to enjoy the outdoors but sleep indoors. Learn more about Roma Nose State Park and all the outdoor adventures in Oklahoma you can have here.
This pristine, secluded river is located in southeastern Oklahoma. The river is not commercialized, so bring your own floats and map and enjoy the solitude of this stunning river. Learn more about Glover River, a natural hidden gem in Oklahoma.
5. Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Sulphur
Chickasaw National Recreation Area, 901 W 1st St, Sulphur, OK 73086, USA
Known as the "oasis in the prairie," Chickasaw National Recreation Area is full of mineral water, natural springs, and waterfalls. The area is full of activities all year long including, cycling, swimming, boating, and hiking. Learn more about Chickasaw National Recreation Area.
Take a look at this video of Chickasaw National Recreation Area by @weekendhikers:
Located in southeast Oklahoma in the San Bois Mountains, this state park is a prime destination for rock climbers and rappellers. The park boasts over 8,200 acres of wilderness where visitors can enjoy hiking, hunting, fishing, and horseback riding. You can also camp here at Robbers Cave State Park.
7. Blue River, Tishomingo
West Blue River Road, W Blue River Rd, Oklahoma 73460, USA
Known for its beautiful cascades, Blue River near Tishomingo is a popular fishing spot surrounded by picturesque beauty. Trout are stocked every winter and the spring-fed river is full of outdoor fun and activities. Please note: A Blue River Conservation Passport is required for all who enter or use the Blue River area (a designated trout area), unless exempt. Learn more about Oklahoma's Blue River.
8. Heavener Runestone Park, Heavener
Heavener Runestone Park, 18365 Runestone Rd, Heavener, OK 74937, USA
Heavener Runestone Park is one of the most beautiful state parks in the Sooner State. It is also one of the most unusual historic sites in the South because of the markings on the mountains. Many people believe Vikings once roamed Oklahoma and left strange carvings on these rocks. The park is filled with hiking trails and stunning waterfalls. Check out this hike at Heavener Runestone Park.
Situated at the base of the Wichita Mountains is the quaint, cobblestone town of Medicine Park. It's the perfect town to enjoy an outdoor walk, swim in the creek, spend an afternoon fishing, or enjoying the splendid beauty of the mountains all around. Learn more about Medicine Park, one of the most charming small towns in Oklahoma.
Take a look at this video of Medicine Park by Travel OK:
10. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, near Lawton
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Lawton, OK 73501, USA
If you're really looking to get in touch with nature, head to the nearby Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. The refuge contains almost 60,000 acres of rugged beauty, wildlife, hiking, creeks, lakes, camping and so much more. Learn more about Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and all it offers in terms of outdoor adventures in Oklahoma.
Ready for some outdoor things to do in Oklahoma? I sure am! For more things to do and see in Oklahoma, make sure you check out our Ultimate Oklahoma Bucket List.
Want to explore the outdoors? As hiking is one of the best outdoor activities in Oklahoma, make sure you check out our Ultimate Hiking Packing List for all your needs before hitting the trails.
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Melissa M.|December 10, 2023
What are some of the best state parks in Oklahoma?
Among the best state parks in Oklahoma are the following: