By now, you should be aware of the vast beauty that is spread across our great state. From the rocky terrain of the Wichita Mountains to the natural springs in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, there's an abundance of beauty to explore. Here are 13 of our favorite natural attractions in Oklahoma. Click on the links below each photo for more information about each stunning place.
(Natural attractions are listed in no particular order.)
1. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and Mt.
Scott (Indiahoma)
Located in southwest Oklahoma, the Wichita Mountains are rocky promontories full of natural beauty and breathtaking views. These mountains are home to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge – 59,000 spectacular acres full of free-roaming wildlife. Mt. Scott, the second highest mountain in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, stands at 2,264 ft. above sea level.For more information and directions, read our full article
2. Talimena National Scenic Byway (Talihina)
One dreamy place every Oklahoman should visit is the Talimena Scenic Drive in the Ouachita National Forest in southeastern Oklahoma. The 54-mile drive will take you through the most breathtaking vistas in the state, introduce you to quaint, historic gateway towns and take you exploring on an endless number of trails (if you choose). If you wish to just take a leisurely drive, it will take you about an hour; if you want to spend days in the area, there’s plenty to do.For more information and directions, read our full article
3. Chickasaw National Recreation Area (Sulphur)
Chickasaw National Recreation Area has been described as an oasis in the Oklahoma prairie. It is situated in the foothills of the Arbuckle Mountains in south-central Oklahoma near Sulphur. It is full of natural springs and mineral springs that attract visitors from all over the country. The most popular creek -
Travertine Creek - maintains an average temperature of 65 degrees year round, which makes for an invigorating plunge on hot summer days.For more information and directions, read our full article
4. Bathtub Rocks (Tahlequah)
Tucked away in the hills of eastern Oklahoma is a geological waterpark formed by smoothed over rocks, that creates pools and slides for an entertaining ride down nature. This natural water slide is known as Bathtub Rock and is located in the J.T. Nickel Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve in Tahlequah. Check it out because no summer is complete without a ride down this epic natural waterslide.For more information and directions, read our full article
5. Black Mesa Country - (Kenton)
As one of only four states with more than 10 eco-regions, the Sooner State has many diverse topographies. The Southwestern Tablelands ecoregion in Oklahoma encompasses Black Mesa country in extreme western Oklahoma. It is full of dramatic rock formations, an abundance of wildlife, ancient mesas, rugged beauty, mountains and shortgrass prairies. It also boasts the highest point in the state – 4,973 ft. above sea level.For more information and directions, read our full article
6. Great Salt Plains State Park (Jet)
There’s one extraordinary treasure that is literally hiding in our ground…selenite crystals. Great Salt Plains State Park in Jet, Oklahoma, is the only place in the world where you can dig for these hourglass-shaped crystals. Not only can you find these one-of-a-kind treasures, but you can also enjoy the only lake in Oklahoma that is half saltwater. Grab those shovels and buckets because digging season is going on right now and you’ll want to visit this attraction that is unlike anything else in the world.For more information and directions, read our full article here.
7. Lake Tenkiller State Park (Vian)
Nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, Lake Tenkiller State Park is a gem in the woodlands of Oklahoma. The lake is a clear water paradise and is surrounded by beautiful thick foliage, rugged cliffs, rolling hills and spectacular views. Lake Tenkiller State Park has become known as "Heaven in the Hills" and once you visit, you’ll see why it’s pure bliss.For more information and directions, read our full article
8. Turner Falls (Davis)
There are just some places in the state that are a must-visit, and Turner Falls is one of those places. It is one of Oklahoma’s most beautiful gems that lies nestled in the Arbuckle Mountains in southern Oklahoma. Turner Falls is the largest waterfall in the state at 77 ft., and boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in the Sooner State. It is the perfect getaway for the whole family to enjoy.For more information and directions, read our full article
9. Natural Falls State Park (Colcord)
There’s an enchanting spot in the northeastern corner of the state that will make you feel like you’ve stepped through a magical wardrobe. From gorgeous waterfalls to lush greenery to scenic forests, this park in Oklahoma may feel more like a scene from The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe than the Sooner State. Go ahead, step into Natural Falls State Park – an otherworldly place that is filled with magnificent scenery.For more information and directions, read our full article
10. Alabaster Caverns State Park (Freedom)
Oklahoma is home to the largest natural gypsum cave in the world open to the public – Alabaster Caverns – and you need to visit this incredible place as soon as possible. The caves are part of the 200-acre Alabaster Caverns State Park in Freedom and guided tours are offered daily. Not only will you see a rare form of gypsum, but you’ll also get to see several species of bats during your tour. For more information and directions, read our full article
11. Beavers Bend State Park (Broken Bow)
Beavers Bend State Park is a gem in southeastern Oklahoma, comprised of 1,300 acres about 10 miles north of Broken Bow. The park boasts of a postcard-like setting and is an outdoor oasis waiting to be discovered. It offers crystal clear waters, towering pines and breathtaking scenery. It has almost every outdoor activity you’re looking for in a state park and it’s right here in Oklahoma.For more information and directions, read our full article
12. Red Rock Canyon State Park (Hinton)
Red Rock Canyon State Park is one of Oklahoma’s crown jewels for outdoor enthusiasts. Located near Hinton, Oklahoma in the west central portion of the state, Red Rock Canyon is the place to go for epic hikes, rappelling, camping and exploring the outdoors. The canyon hike at Red Rock is an unrivaled experience everyone should enjoy at least once.For more information and directions, read our full article
13. Robbers Cave State Park (Wilburton)
Robbers Cave State Park is located in the San Bois Mountains of southeastern Oklahoma and features over 12 miles of trails that wind you through caves, lakes, streams and breathtaking scenery. The popular caves are made of sandstone (not the usual limestone) and were popular hideouts for outlaws Jesse James and Belle Star.For more information and directions, read our full article
Don't these places look incredible? Which one is on your list to visit first?
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