It’s Prime Season For Alligators In This Corner Of Oklahoma That Looks Like A Marshland

Red Slough Wildlife Management Area in southern Oklahoma feels more like you're in Florida or Louisiana than the Sooner State due to its marshes and wetlands. People come from all over the state to watch wildlife - especially birds and alligators. Right now, it's prime season for alligators, so plan a day trip to this beautiful place to get an up close look at these rare (and dangerous) creatures.

You won't find alligators in very many places in Oklahoma. A few have been spotted in our lakes but it's rare to find an area that is filled with them.

The American Alligator can be found in Red Slough Management Area and from March through October it's prime season for alligator activity. They can weigh up to 800 pounds and grow up to 13 feet long.

It's the only documented breeding area for the American Alligator in Oklahoma, with about one nest found each year.

But each nest can have between 25-50 eggs in it. Make sure to give the alligators their space - especially during mating season.

There are over 5,000 acres filled with marshes, wetlands, lakes, and forestland in Red Slough.

It's also a very popular place for bird watcher conventions.

In fact, there is a Red Slough Birding Convention taking place May 4 to May 7 - where you can take guided tours and field trips of the area.

They often see these guys on tours so be on the lookout.

There are viewing platforms, hiking trails, and bridges to get a bird's eye view of the marshes and wetlands (and everything hiding in them). Be sure to bring your cameras to capture the beauty of these animals and area.

Address: Red Slough Wildlife Management Area, Ouachita National Forest, South of Idabel, OK, 74728

Who’s ready to get outdoors and explore more beauty in nature? If so, I’ve found five managed wilderness areas in Oklahoma that are must-visit spots for nature enthusiasts. Click here to read all about them.