13 Enchanting Spots In Oklahoma You Never Knew Existed

The Sooner State is a treasure trove of destinations just waiting to be discovered. Even if you are a native Oklahoman, there are still hidden places in Oklahoma to explore and admire.  While some of these locations might not be a surprise to locals, they will be shocking to many outsiders that still think Oklahoma is flat and boring. Without further ado, are 13 hidden places in Oklahoma you may have never seen before.

1. The Narrows in the Wichita Mountains

When it comes to hidden places in Oklahoma, the Narrows Trail is a top contender. The Narrows is a beautiful canyon in the Wichita Mountains of Oklahoma. Although not technically a mountain, the Narrows canyon hosts some of the best climbing in the midwest. The West Cache Creek flows into the Narrows. Learn more about how you can hike the Narrows in Oklahoma.

2. Turner Falls - Ponds and Caves

While most know about the stunning Turner Falls, many people do not know about the ponds and caves above the falls. The area above is much less congested and is a great soaking area if the water level is right. There are also caves to explore alongside the falls. This Oklahoma waterfall belongs on everyone's bucket list.

3. Elmer Thomas Lake

Elmer Thomas Lake is Fort Sill's premiere recreation destination. It is a no-wake lake that offers breathtaking scenery near the Wichita Mountains and Medicine Park. Elmer Thomas Lake is truly one of the most breathtakingly beautiful destinations in Oklahoma.

4. Lower Mountain Fork River

Hailed as the best whitewater stream in Oklahoma, the Mountain Fork River offers a year-round destination for the best trout fishing anywhere in the surrounding region. The river’s constant flow and cool waters are the ideal place to find brown and rainbow trout year-round.

5. Robber's Cave

Robbers Cave State Park preserves some of

the most unique and beautiful scenery in the

South. The park is located in the Sans Bois

Mountains near Wilburton, OK. Robbers Cave also enjoys notoriety as a former hideout for outlaws Jesse James and Belle Starr.

6. Twin Waterfalls in the Forty Foot Hole of Wichita Mountains

The waterfalls within the Wichita Mountains are a beautiful surprise to hikers and nature lovers. The falls can range from little trickles to heavy flow, based on the time of year. Learn more about the Forty Foot Hole in the Wichita Mountains.

7. Natural Falls

One of the best views of Natural Falls is from above. It is a gorgeous spot to soak in the natural beauty and listen to the flow of rushing water. Plus, you can access Natural Falls via a short, beautiful Oklahoma trail.

8. Presbyterian Falls at Lower Mountain Fork River

This little rushing falls is no Niagara, but it is a spectacular spot to enjoy kayaking and fresh water rapids along the beautiful tree-lined river. Presbyterian Falls is one of the most beautiful hidden places in Oklahoma.

9. Talimena Scenic Drive

For all those "Oklahoma is flat and boring" people...this one's for you. Lush greenery, winding roads and stunning scenery on all sides, are what you will find on this drive in the Ouachita National Forest. It's one of the best scenic drives in Oklahoma.

10. Jed Johnson Tower

This abandoned fire tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps sits above Jed Johnson Lake at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. It's accessible via a hiking trail and the location has stunning views of the refuge. Learn more about how you can hike to the Jed Johnson Tower in Oklahoma.

11. Hartshorne Lake Dam

The water flowing over the dam is a remarkable display of beauty. Hartshorne Lake is located in Pittsburgh County in southeastern Oklahoma. When it comes to beautiful hidden gems in Oklahoma, Hartshorne Lake Dam definitely belongs on the list.

12. Centennial Park in Tulsa

Centennial Park offers stunning views of the Tulsa skyline and is a quiet and serene place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. If you're ever in the mood for a picnic, Centennial Park in Tulsa is the perfect option.

13. Saline Creek in Mayes County

This little creek near Salina is a lesser-known spot in Mayes County. This is a great place to spend a day with the family, enjoying the fresh air and the remarkable beauty of nature. It is only one of five bodies of water of the thousands of lakes and streams monitored in Oklahoma that were found to be clear of harmful levels of pollution. If you're looking for the perfect swimming spot in the summer, Saline Creek is an amazing swimming hole in Oklahoma.

There are so many hidden places in Oklahoma to discover! Do you have a few places to add to this list? Share them in the comments below -- we'd love to hear your suggestions!