Posted in Oklahoma
May 14, 2021
The Ultimate Oklahoma Hidden Gem Road Trip Will Take You To 6 Incredible Little-Known Spots In The State
Oklahoma is home to many undiscovered places and we put together a fun road trip to take you to 6 of them. Gas up the car, load up the kids, and follow along as we take you on a road trip to discover these hidden gems tucked away in the Sooner State.
This road trip is focused on the eastern side of the state and directions can be found on this Google map.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
This hidden gem road trip starts at Red Slough Wildlife Management Area in southeast Oklahoma. The area covers 5,814 acres with several different habitats including woodlands, riparian zones, marshes, and wet prairie. Approximately 38 species of reptiles call this refuge home, including the American alligator. The best time to see alligators here is between March and May.
Head north to Clayton Lake State Park where you'll view the rich colors of the Kiamichi Mountains. The park is over 500 acres, including the 80-acre Clayton Lake. If you get a chance to visit in the fall, the bright autumn colors reflecting off the lake are out-of-this-world.
Next up on the trip is the gorgeous small town, Carlton Landing situated on Lake Eufaula. This township looks more like Florida than Oklahoma. The small town is home to a restaurant, General Store, weekend shops, and more. This is one of the more charming towns in all of Oklahoma and you won't want to leave.
The next destination is sure to satisfy your belly with some of the best-fried catfish in the state. One of the great things about this place is the all-you-can-eat fried catfish. It's perfectly seasoned and breaded to perfection. After enjoying your delicious meal, hop back in the car and get ready for an epic nature destination.
Nature lovers will fall in love with the next stop - The J.T. Nickel Family Nature & Wildlife Preserve located near Tahlequah in the Ozarks. The preserve comprises 17,000 acres of astounding beauty and environmental protection areas that are filled with spring-fed creeks, forests, woodlands, prairies, wildlife species and so much more. You’ll also find a little geological water park within the area that is a hidden gem in the summer. This unique nature preserve is a one-of-a-kind destination in the Sooner State overlooking the Illinois River and is free for all visitors.
The last stop on this hidden gem road trip is Lendonwood Gardens in Grove. It is an 8-acre botanical garden featuring 1,200 different types of plants and flowers. You can meander the garden pathways on your own or take a guided tour upon request. Every corner you turn will have breathtaking scenery and plants. There is also a waterfall and pond that are so peaceful and relaxing.
We hope you enjoy this hidden gem road trip! If you’re interested in learning more about Red Slough Wildlife, click here to read our previous featured article on this place.
Address: Oklahoma, USA
