The Unconventional Activity Every Oklahoman Should Try Once

Every year, millions of Mexican free-tailed bats return to The Selman Bat Cave Wildlife Management Area near Freedom, Oklahoma as part of their migratory path. The bats travel over 1,400 miles to give birth to their young and care for them in this protected area. The bat cave is closed to the public except for special events, and during July it is open on eight select nights for only a limited number of visitors who pre-register. Here are all the details you need to know about this special event:

The Selman Batcave Wildlife Management Area is located near the Alabaster Caverns State Park at 217036 SH 50A,

Freedom, OK. It is a protected area by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.

The wildlife area is open on July 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29 for only 75 select guests, per night. You must pre-register for this event and the deadline is June 9, 2017 (registration link below).

Millions of bats travel over 1400 miles and pour into the area for an incredible viewing experience. If you've never had the chance to see it, it's an amazing sight you don't want to miss.

Before being bused over to the viewing area, group leaders will educate guests on the Mexican free-tailed bat and other wildlife in the area.

For guests that would like to participate in a group led nature walk, a tour guide will lead you on a short, 1/4 mile walk and educate you on the area. For your safety and for the bats, the caves will not be toured.

Visitors can bring lawn chairs, binoculars and cameras. Dress for the outdoors and wear tennis shoes (no sandals allowed).

The area is located on 340-acres of beautiful land in northwestern Oklahoma and is only one of four maternity colonies for Mexican free-tailed bats in the state.

Admission to the Selman Bat Watch is $12 for adults and $6 for children ages 8-12. Children under 8 are not allowed at the event. Click the link below for registration and more details. Remember the registration form must be mailed in by June 9th.

Click here for the registration link to the Selman Bat Watch. If you're looking for aboveground caves to explore, check out the caves at Robber's Cave State Park.