A Bit Of An Unexpected Natural Wonder, Few People Know There Are Wetlands Hiding In Oklahoma
By Ashley|Published April 07, 2023
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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.
Oklahoma is a state filled with natural beauty, from its rolling hills to its vibrant sunsets. However, one of the most unexpected natural wonders hiding within the Sooner State is the Red Slough Wildlife Management Area. This hidden gem is located in the Ouachita National Forest and is a premier watchable wildlife area. Oh, and did we mention the Red Slough WMA in Oklahoma is also home to American alligators? Yep, that’s right! Oklahoma has alligators roaming around, and just wait until you see them below.
The Red Slough Wildlife Management Area is an astonishingly diverse habitat, spanning 5,814 acres of marshes, wetlands, lakes, shrub/scrub, and forestland. Of the nearly 6,000 acres, about 2,400 acres of those are wetlands.
Visitors to the area can explore the incredible landscape from 9 observation platforms. Just be sure to follow all regulations set forth by the U.S. Forest Service, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service before visiting so you can make the most of your time there.
But there's more to this unique area than its beautiful landscape - it also plays host to an incredible variety of wildlife. From purple gallinules to wood storks, 322 bird species and 88 butterfly species can be spotted here. Waterfowl hunters will also love visiting during the winter months too, as thousands of ducks flock to this prime spot for hunting opportunities.
That's not all the Red Slough Wildlife Management Area has to offer. The American alligator also has a presence in the area, and the prime season for activity is March through October.
A breeding population of alligators can be found here, with many nests discovered each year. I don't know about you but I wouldn't want to be face-to-face with this big guy.
Red Slough Wildlife Management Area is a hidden gem in Oklahoma that is definitely worth a visit. With its diverse habitats, unique species, and hunting opportunities, this area truly has something for everyone.
Whether you're a birdwatcher, hunter, or nature lover, the Red Slough Wildlife Management Area is an unexpected natural wonder that is not to be missed.
Have you ever visited Red Slough WMA in Oklahoma before? If so, share your experience with our readers in the comments section! If you want to read more about Red Slough, check out the Oklahoma Wildlife Department’s website.
Located just a short drive from this area is the small town of Idabel, home to some of the best fried chicken in the state. Or, if you find yourself needing gas while in Idabel, be sure and visit the coolest gas station in the state – Gasquatch – a Bigfoot-themed mini-mart, restaurant, and gas station.
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