Are you looking for a great way to explore the beauty and wildness of Oklahoma? Look no further – Oklahoma State Parks are some of the best places to visit! Whether you’re a parent wanting to teach your kids about nature or just looking for a peaceful retreat away from it all, check out my list of the best state parks in Oklahoma for outdoor adventure.
Best State Parks in Oklahoma
With this list, I’ll take you through my favorites and explain why they should definitely make it on your list too! So grab your backpacks and get ready for an adventure like never before as we uncover some of the most beautiful Oklahoma state parks.
1. Lake Murray State Park
Lake Murray State Park, located near Ardmore in southern Oklahoma, is Oklahoma’s first state park. It’s packed with plenty of outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy.
The park is incredibly family-friendly, with a playground for the kids, as well as a refreshing pool and splash pad exclusive to lodge guests.
Nature lovers will enjoy the nature center and stables, which offer guided horseback trail rides. For those who love a great game of golf, there’s an 18-hole golf course and an 18-hole miniature golf course.
If you want to spend some time on the lake, there are kayaks, canoes, and WaveRunners available to rent.
Lake Murray State Park is an adventure-packed park with 25 miles of trails to discover at your own pace. And you can’t leave without visiting Tucker Tower, which is a firm favorite among visitors.
With so much to see and do, Lake Murray State Park is definitely one of the best state parks in Oklahoma.
Accommodation Options
For a little extra comfort during your visit, there’s the option of staying in the modern Lodge. If you’re looking for something more rustic, the park has both tiny cabins and regular cabins.
For a more outdoorsy experience, there are RV sites and tent sites that will allow you to immerse yourself in nature.
And if you’re looking for hotel options instead, the town of Ardmore is just a short drive away.
2. Robbers Cave State Park
If you’re looking for a great outdoor adventure in Oklahoma, look no further than Robbers Cave State Park! Nestled in the San Bois Mountains, this park was once a hideout for notorious outlaw Jesse James.
Nowadays, the park is a family-friendly destination that offers plenty of activities for everyone. You can enjoy swimming at the beach, taking a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool, and even renting small watercraft to explore the beautiful lake.
Hit up the 9-hole disc golf course, or try your hand at the 18-hole miniature golf course. Horse lovers will also enjoy the stables, which offer guided trail rides.
Families with small children will love the playgrounds and picnic areas. And if you’re a nature lover, don’t miss the chance to check out the park’s nature center and explore the numerous hiking trails of varying lengths that wind their way through the stunning park.
Accommodation Options
If you’re looking for a unique and memorable stay during your visit to Robbers Cave State Park, there are a variety of accommodation options to choose from. For a cozier experience, the cabins offer a rustic charm with modern amenities, while the covered wagons provide a nod to the park’s rugged past.
If you’re looking for a more upscale option, the lodge offers spacious rooms and a beautiful view of the park. For a truly unique experience, try a yurt – a circular, canvas tent that offers a cozy retreat in the heart of nature.
Of course, there are also plenty of RV and tent sites available for those who prefer a more traditional camping experience.
If there isn’t availability or you want more traditional accommodations, head 30 miles west of the park to McAlester. A wide variety of well-known chain hotels are available, catering to different budgets. Additionally, there are several VRBO cabins in close proximity.
3. Roman Nose State Park
Roman Nose State Park has a lot to offer, making it one of the best state parks in Oklahoma. The park has a long history with the Cheyenne people. In fact, the park was named after a Cheyenne chief. Make sure to stop at the iconic entrance sign to grab a photo before heading into the park.
During the summer months, take a swim in the outdoor pools or rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.
If your family enjoys golf, you’re in luck – there’s an 18-hole course available, as well as a smaller 9-hole miniature golf course for the little ones.
If you’re traveling with little ones, they’ll love the playground. For a truly unforgettable experience, take a guided horseback trail ride through the park or explore one of the many hiking paths.
Accommodation Options
If you’re planning a trip to Roman Nose State Park, you’re in luck when it comes to accommodations!
There are plenty of options to choose from, including a beautiful lodge, cozy cabins, RV sites for your home on wheels, and tent sites for the adventurous souls out there. But perhaps the most unique lodging option is the three available teepees.
While Watonga is the closest town to the park, there are plenty of other hotel options about 35-45 miles away in Kingfisher and Weatherford. So no matter what your style and budget, there’s a place for you to rest and recharge during your visit to Roman Nose State Park.
4. Black Mesa State Park and Nature Preserve
If you’re looking for an adventure-filled trip to one of the best state parks in Oklahoma, then Black Mesa State Park and Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for you!
Located in the state’s panhandle, this park offers breathtaking views that you simply can’t afford to miss. The park is home to the highest point in the state towering at 4,973 feet. Take a hike to the top to be treated to a panoramic view that will leave you amazed.
If you’re a fishing enthusiast, then Lake Carl Etling has got you covered with its abundant channel catfish and bass population.
And if you love stargazing, Black Mesa provides some of the best dark-sky viewing opportunities in the region. With all of these incredible features, Black Mesa State Park and Nature Preserve is truly an unforgettable destination in Oklahoma for nature lovers.
Accommodation Options
You’ll find RV sites with full hookups as well as tent sites for those who prefer to camp under the stars.
If camping isn’t your thing, there are hotels, motels, and B&Bs nearby. The Black Mesa Bed and Breakfast is located near the park. Families will enjoy the Hoot Owl Guest Ranch.
Alternatively, Boise City, has a few options for basic accommodations. For a wider range of hotel options, head to Guymon located about an hour and a half from the park.
5. Beavers Bend State Park
If you’re looking for a fun outdoor adventure in southeast Oklahoma, Beavers Bend State Park is the place to be!
There’s something for everyone here, from float trips and kayak tours to paddleboat and paddleboard rentals. The swim beach is perfect for a refreshing dip. Fishing enthusiasts will love the opportunity for fly fishing.
With over 15 miles of hiking trails, this is one of the best state parks in Oklahoma for hiking. Trails range from the 0.75-mile-long Pine Ridge Nature Trail to the 7-mile-long Skyline Trail. The 1.5-mile Friends of Beaver’s Bend is a popular trail for visitors.
Thrill-seekers can try out the ziplining course or take a Segway tour of the park. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, the guided horseback trail rides are a great way to explore the beautiful scenery.
Don’t forget to visit the nature center and check out the 18-hole golf course, too. And for the kids, there’s a miniature train ride and playground to keep them entertained.
With so much to see and do, Beavers Bend State Park promises to be an unforgettable experience for all.
Accommodation Options
Beavers Bend State Park is a true gem in Oklahoma that offers a variety of accommodation options within the park. The lodge is a perfect choice for those who want the comforts of home while surrounded by nature.
The cabins provide a more cozy and secluded atmosphere. And for a unique experience, stay in a yurt. For RV owners, there are plenty of sites to park and hook up at. Tent sites are also available for those who want to rough it.
Hochatown is a very popular spot for vacation rentals. And if you want a hotel, just a short drive away is Broken Bow with a few options to choose from.
6. Tenkiller State Park
If you’re looking for a great spot to take in some fresh air and enjoy a range of outdoor activities, Tenkiller State Park is definitely worth checking out. There’s plenty to do here year-round, from hiking on picturesque trails to testing your skills at the 18-hole disc golf course.
During the summer months, you can cool off with a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or at the swim beach, while little ones will love making a splash on the fun-filled splash pad. For fun on the water, kayaks and paddleboards are available to rent.
Meanwhile, avid anglers can try their luck at fishing in the park’s picturesque lake, and you can even explore the underwater world by scuba diving in Lake Tenkiller at the dedicated diving park. From boating to bird watching, Tenkiller State Park is an outdoor paradise.
Accommodation Options
If you’re planning a visit to Tenkiller State Park, you’ll have a variety of accommodation options to choose from. Whether you prefer the comfort of a cabin, the convenience of an RV site, or the simplicity of a tent site, there’s a place for you to stay.
And if you’re looking for more traditional hotel options, the nearby towns of Sallisaw, Muskogee, and Tahlequah have plenty to offer. These towns are all within an hour of the park.
7. Boiling Springs State Park
Boiling Springs State Park, a gem nestled in Northwest Oklahoma, offers an exceptional blend of natural beauty and outdoor fun.
The park is named after its fascinating “boiling” springs, natural cold springs that give off the appearance of boiling due to the water percolating through the sand. This fascinating sight can be enjoyed at the springs observation deck, a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the park.
Boiling Springs State Park offers more than just its distinctive springs. It boasts a wide range of recreational activities suitable for people of all ages and interests. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, a swimming pool, a playground, and even a fishing lake.
Boiling Springs Golf Course is also a great attraction for golf lovers. The course is challenging and has a wide array of terrain to play through.
Hikers can explore the park’s trail system, which winds through lush forests and offers stunning vistas. With five trails that vary in length from a quarter mile up to one and a half miles, there are options for all skill levels.
Accommodation Options
Cabins, RV sites, and tent campsites are available in the park. There are two cabin options available. The first choice features a queen bed in the bedroom and a queen sleeper sofa in the living room. The second option offers two twin beds in the bedroom and a queen sleeper sofa in the living room.
For hotel accommodations, head to Woodward. It is less than seven miles from the park.
8. Natural Falls State Park
When it comes to the best state parks in Oklahoma, Natural Falls State Park is definitely a front-runner. One of the major draws is the picturesque 77-foot waterfall that takes center stage. If you’re a movie buff, you might recognize the falls from the film Where the Red Fern Grows.
But that’s just the start of what the park has to offer. Nature enthusiasts will love exploring the 4.5 miles of hiking trails that wind through the park’s landscape. And if you’re looking to cast a line, Natural Falls offers catch-and-release fishing in a designated area.
There’s an 18-hole disc golf course, basketball hoop, volleyball net, and horseshoe pits available for visitors to enjoy. Families with kids will appreciate the two playgrounds and plenty of picnic areas for relaxing
The park’s natural beauty and abundance of activities make it the perfect spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Accommodation Options
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, we highly recommend staying in one of the five yurts. These circular, tent-like structures offer a unique blend of camping and comfort.
For those traveling in an RV, there are plenty of sites available with water and electric hookups. And of course, traditional tent camping sites are available as well.
If you prefer more modern amenities, Siloam Springs is the closest town with accommodations. It has a variety of chain hotels as well as Airbnb and VRBO options to choose from.
9. Salt Plains State Park
Head to Salt Plains State Park to explore a unique part of Oklahoma. Whether you’re coming for the swim beach, playground, nature trail, or hiking trails, you’ll find plenty to do within the park.
Meanwhile, birdwatchers can’t get enough of this park’s abundant opportunities to spot over 300 species of birds.
But what really sets this park apart is its beautiful location. Situated near the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge, this park is the perfect jumping-off point to explore this beautiful and unique area of the state.
The refuge is well known for its crystal digging season. The crystals are made of gypsum, which has many uses. In the park, the gypsum is crystallized. The brownish, hourglass shape inside the crystal is not found anywhere else.
Crystal digging at the Salt Plains is an absolutely unique and amazing Oklahoma experience!
Accommodation Options
If you’re planning a trip to Salt Plains State Park, you’ll have a few options for where to rest your head at night. The park offers six cozy cabins as well as sites for RVs and tents.
If you need a bit more modern comfort, you may want to head to the nearby cities of Alva or Enid, which are located about 35 miles and 40 miles away, respectively. There, you’ll find lodging options along with plenty of restaurants and other attractions to explore during your visit.
10. Quartz Mountain State Park
Visit one of the best state parks in Oklahoma – Quartz Mountain State Park! Situated near the glistening waters of Lake Altus-Lugert, this beautiful park provides an array of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts.
Whether you’re casting a line in the lake, taking a dip at the swim beach, or hiking along the trails, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy.
Birdwatching is another popular activity in the park. Be sure to check out the nature center, packed with interesting exhibits and insights into the flora and fauna of the area.
Accommodation Options
At Quartz Mountain State Park, there’s a large lodge with multiple suite options for those looking for a more luxurious stay. Lodge guests also have access to the indoor pool.
There are also cozy cabins for a secluded experience. If you prefer a more rustic approach, RV and tent sites are also available.
If you’re in need of some additional lodging options outside the park, the town of Altus is just a short drive away and has plenty of hotel options to choose from.
11. Alabaster Caverns
Alabaster Caverns State Park is an absolute gem of natural beauty and geological wonders! The park is famous for its massive gypsum cave, one of the largest in the world. You won’t believe your eyes when you see the alabaster walls, made of rare gypsum.
Guided tours of the cave offer visitors a unique opportunity to witness the formations and the occasional sighting of bats that inhabit the cave. Hourly tours are available and reservations are recommended during peak periods, such as holidays or special events.
If you are up for the challenge, four caves are reserved for wild caving. Permits are required and can be obtained from April through the end of September.
The park is more than just caves! It’s a place for adventure and relaxation. Explore the outcrop-lined trails for an exciting hike, and find yourself in serene picnic spots to unwind and take in the park’s natural beauty.
Alabaster Caverns State Park is an extraordinary and one-of-a-kind Oklahoma destination that is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Accommodation Option
If you are looking to camp, RV and tent sites are both available in the park with showers and bathrooms on site.
If you prefer a hotel or other accommodations, Woodward is the best place to stay with several major chain hotels available. It is only a short, 30-minute drive from the park.
12. Gloss Mountain State Park
Looking for a picturesque destination to explore in Oklahoma? Look no further than Gloss Mountain State Park!
This stunning park is home to some of the best views in the state. Located in the northwest region of Oklahoma, Gloss Mountain State Park is home to incredible natural beauty and fascinating geology.
The high selenite content is what gives the park its famous shimmer. While you can admire the mesa from the ground, I highly recommend that you climb the stairs to the top. You will be rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
Who knows what kind of animals you might spot on your journey to the top? Keep your eyes peeled for eastern collared lizards, rattlesnakes, and jackrabbits, all of which call this park home.
Even though this park is small with few amenities, it’s worth the effort for the amazing views of the landscape!
Accommodation Options
If you’re planning a trip to the park, it’s important to keep in mind that there are no accommodation options within the park itself. But don’t worry, there are a few towns nearby with plenty of options to choose from!
Fairview, which is only 15 miles away, has some hotel options. For a wider range of choices, consider driving to Enid, located approximately 40 miles away. Or if your itinerary is taking you west, Woodward is about 45 miles away from the park.
Final Thoughts: Best State Parks in Oklahoma
Everyone should experience the beauty of Oklahoma. With stunning views, fascinating wildlife, and spectacular nature hikes, Oklahoma truly has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are looking for a relaxing escape or an adventurous trip, there is something unique waiting for you in these top Oklahoma state parks. So make sure to get out there and explore the best of what Oklahoma has to offer!
Book today and start packing for your trip. Adventure awaits!
