The Destination Way Down South In Oklahoma That Is So Worth The Drive
Oklahoma – the state that has it all: red dirt and farmland, bustling cities and sprawling suburbs, epic nature spots, and never-ending skies. Nestled in the southwestern portion of the state is the incredible Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. This nature reserve is a must-see destination for anyone looking to get away from it all and explore the beauty of Oklahoma’s landscape. It might be out of the way but it’s so worth the drive.
At over 59,000 acres, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is one of the largest wildlife refuges in the United States.
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offers visitors a chance to experience nature first-hand in an untouched environment. From hiking trails through majestic valleys and grasslands to scenic overlooks of the surrounding area, there is something for everyone.
If you're looking for a short but beautiful hike we recommend you take the trail to Osage Lake. It's a 1.3-mile loop trail that's rated as easy and offers a quiet hike with epic views.
Another fun spot to explore is the haunted Parallel Forest, built by the federal government many years ago as an experiment to deal with the effects of the Dust Bowl. Over 20,000 red cedars were planted exactly 6 feet apart in every direction on over 16 acres.
Interested in seeing the Holy City? If you don't want to go to Jerusalem you can see the Holy City of the Wichitas, a 66-acre area in the Wichita Mountains that looks like Israel during Biblical times.
With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and diverse recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people make the drive down south each year to experience all that the refuge has to offer.
For more information about the refuge, please visit the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website. Have you ever visited the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge? If so, share your favorite spot in the comments section!
Ashley has lived in Oklahoma for 25 years and is the Oklahoma staff writer for onlyinyourstate.com. When she isn't exploring Oklahoma, she enjoys visiting the beaches of California.
