There’s A Natural Waterslide Tucked Away At Bathtub Rocks In Oklahoma

Editor's Note: The Bathtub Rocks are located on private property within the preserve, making it closed to the general public. In order to protect this natural feature, we ask that you do not trespass onto the area to view it.

Did you know Oklahoma has a natural waterslide from spring-fed water flowing over smooth rocks shaped perfectly by Mother Nature? It's true! Bathtub Rocks is a natural wonder located in J.T. Nickel Family Nature & Wildlife Preserve in Tahlequah.

Nestled in the Ozarks is the J.T. Nickel Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve – comprised of 17,000 acres of exceptional beauty in the rolling Cookson Hills of northeastern Oklahoma. There are views of the Illinois River, spring-fed creeks, waterfalls, a natural waterslide, forests, and woodlands.

The entire preserve is beautiful and worth a visit -- but it is home to the stunning natural waterslide: Bathtub Rocks.

This natural waterslide is a little hidden gem locals have been visiting for years. Unfortunately, in order to preserve the natural wonder, Bathtub Rocks is no longer accessible to the public.

It is, however, a fascinating formation that hopefully will have trail access in the future. The waterslide flows from a spring-fed creek and overlooks the Illinois River.

The rocks have been cut deep and some holes are surprisingly deep. It's easy to see why locals would use these rocks as a "natural waterpark" in the past.

Since the rocks are currently in a private area, we would encourage you to visit the rest of the J.T. Nickel Family Nature & Wildlife Preserve. There is so much beauty tucked away in this little corner of Oklahoma.

As this conservatory was created to protect the flora and fauna living there, we recommend visiting the preserve website to educate yourself about your visit. Or, for more information on the J.T. Nickel Family, check out our previous article where we feature the whole place, including a great hiking trail.