Osage Hills State Park is the perfect outdoor destination to explore, relax, and make amazing memories. Located in northeast Oklahoma, these 1,100 acres offer something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for fun-filled activities such as fishing, hiking trails through dense forests, or simply enjoying nature’s beauty from a campsite – this park has it all.
Osage Hills had been on my list for a while, and my family had a great time during our fall visit. The hiking trails were good and we enjoyed the peace and quiet of the place. Even though the campground was full, the park didn’t feel busy or crowded.
Osage Hills State Park History
Established in 1935, Osage Hills State Park is one of the seven original parks built in the state by the Civilian Conservation Corps as part of the New Deal program during the Great Depression.
Where is Osage Hills State Park?
Osage Hills State Park is located in the northeastern part of Oklahoma, in Osage County. It’s situated between the towns of Pawhuska and Bartlesville, making it easily accessible from either location.
Things to Do at Osage Hills State Park
Here are some things to do at Osage Hills State Park during your visit.
Osage Hills State Park Hiking
Hiking is a must when visiting Osage Hills State Park. The park features a network of trails. The terrain varies, offering everything from easy, flat trails perfect for families, to challenging slopes for the more adventurous. As you traverse these trails, you’ll be enveloped by trees and may even catch sight of local wildlife.
You can do each of the following trails individually or piece them together to make one longer trek.
Falls Trail
This short and sweet trail, just a half-mile out and back, takes you straight to a cascading waterfall. The path starts near the swimming pool area, making it easy to find. It’s the perfect little adventure for anyone visiting the park.
Lake Trail & Overlook Trail
In the northern part of the park, you’ll find the beautiful Lake Trail. This scenic path takes you by the remains of an old Civilian Conservation Corps campground. As it curves around the lake, you’ll enjoy stunning views. Further south, the trail merges into the Overlook Trail.
This trail is about 2 miles long.
Creek Loop Trail
The Creek Loop Trail is a scenic 1.5-mile trail that takes you through a wooded area, and rocky bluffs and offers breathtaking views from the Sand Creek lookout. Keep an eye out for local wildlife along the way!
Osage Hills State Park Mountain Biking
Osage Hills also offers a few mountain bike trails on the east side of the park. There are 3 options to choose from: the 3.1-mile Red Trail, the 2.8-mile Blue Trail, and the 0.8-mile White Trail.
In case you didn’t know, mountain bike trails can also be used by hikers. You will just want to be courteous to the bikers on the path.
Osage Hills State Park Pool
If you are visiting during the summer months, add the pool to your itinerary. The pool does cost an additional $2 for ages 6 and under and $4 for ages 7 and older. But, that is a pretty reasonable cost to be able to enjoy a day of swimming.
Note: You will need to buy a parking pass in addition to the pool admission. If you are staying in the park, parking is covered by your reservation until 5:00 pm.
Osage Hills State Park Fishing
With Lookout Lake and Sandy Creek nestled within the park, you have the perfect spots to cast your line and unwind. Remember, a valid Oklahoma fishing license is required.
The lake is home to a variety of fish including bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish, among others. Fishing enthusiasts can rent boats at the lake to get out on the water.
Osage Hills State Park Picnic Area
If you are staying for the day, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the picnic area. There are plenty of picnic tables and small grills to use.
Osage Hills State Park Playgrounds
There are two playgrounds within Osage Hills State Park where kids can play. A small playground is located near the RV campground.
The playground located near the picnic area and swimming pool is much larger. It also has swings. My kids had a really good time playing at this one.
Osage Hills State Park Cost
You can drive through Osage Hills State Park for free. But if you want to park and explore the beauty of the park, you will need to purchase a parking pass.
Parking Pass
A daily parking pass costs $10 for passenger vehicles. If you have an Oklahoma or Oklahoma tribal license plate, the cost is reduced to $8.
If you are planning on spending more than one day in the park, you can also purchase 3-day and 7-day passes at a discounted rate.
There are signs posted all over the park with the information. You can pay directly from your phone or stop into the park office for assistance.
Accommodations in the park come with a parking pass for one vehicle. So, you will not have to pay an additional fee if you stay the night at the park.
Annual Pass
If you plan on exploring quite a few Oklahoma state parks, it might be worth it for you to purchase an annual pass. These are $60 for Oklahoma license plate holders and $75 for others. The annual pass is good for 1 year from the date of purchase.
Osage Hills Accommodations
There are a few different accommodation options within the park.
Cabins
The park features 8 quaint and cozy cabins available for rent.
Each cabin comes equipped with central heat and air to ensure comfort in any season. For those chilly evenings, a fireplace is also available to provide warmth and ambiance. The cabins include kitchen facilities, making it convenient for guests to prepare their meals.
They are also pet-friendly, so your furry companions can join in your adventure for a small nightly fee.
These tend to book up early, so plan to book your stay in advance if you want a cabin within the park.
Campground
The campground at the park offers an authentic outdoor experience. The area is surrounded by tall, majestic trees, providing ample shade and a peaceful atmosphere. The conveniently located campgrounds allow easy access to the park’s amenities and recreational activities.
RV Sites
Osage Hills State Park houses 20 RV sites, accommodating rigs of various sizes to cater to different camper sizes and needs. The sites are adequately spaced out to allow you to sit outside and enjoy the views.
Tent Camping
Tent sites are also available. There are some within the RV campground. In my experience, these spots tended to be less flat. For better sites, choose a campsite in the tent campground area.
There are plenty of showers and toilets available in both areas.
Wall Tents
One of the unique accommodation options within the park is the wall tents. These are built on a wooden platform. Inside, you will have hanging lanterns, cots to sleep on, and a wood stove to keep warm.
Best Time to Visit Osage Hills State Park
The best time to visit Osage Hills State Park largely depends on what you hope to experience during your visit. If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the waterfall in all its glory, then spring is the optimal time for you.
Summer, on the other hand, is perfect for those who want to make the most out of the longer days. You can take advantage of the park’s swimming pool and have plenty of time to explore the expansive park grounds.
But there’s something truly special about the park in the fall. As the leaves start changing color, the park transforms into a stunning canvas of autumn hues, making it an unforgettable outdoor experience. Peak fall foliage in this area can be anywhere from late October to early November.
Things to Do Near Osage Hills State Park
While visiting Osage Hills State Park, there are plenty of other things to do nearby.
Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
While in the area, don’t miss the chance to drive through the Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve. It is located just a short drive north of Pawhuska and about 30 minutes from Osage Hills State Park.
This massive preserve spans over 39,000 acres, where around 2,500 bison roam freely on this stunning grassland. You get to drive on the dirt roads, soaking in the breathtaking views and keeping an eye out for those magnificent bison.
For more information, check out this Ultimate Guide to the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in Pawhuska, Oklahoma.
Pawhuska
Pawhuska has become a well-known destination because of the Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, and more recently because of the Killers of the Flower Moon movie that was filmed in town. Eat a meal at The Pioneer Woman Mercantile or P-Town Pizza. Grab a treat at the bakery on the second floor of the Mercantile or over at Charlie’s Sweet Shop.
On select days, you can even tour the lodge where The Pioneer Woman’s Food Network episodes are filmed.
While visiting downtown Pawhuska, make sure to do some shopping at the boutiques and antique stores. The Buckin’ Flamingo which sells a variety of jewelry, purses, and more is a must.
For some historical information about the town and the people that have lived here, stop into the Osage County Historical Society Museum. To learn more about the Osage Tribe, visit the Osage Nation Museum.
The Ben Johnson Cowboy Museum is another great attraction in town.
Bartlesville
Bartlesville, just 20 minutes from Osage Hills State Park, is another nearby city worth exploring.
One of the top attractions in Bartlesville is the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve. See a variety of art at the museum, drive the loop to see animals, and tour the lodge of Frank Phillips.
In town, take a tour of the Price Tower Arts Center and Frank Phillips Home. To learn about the impact of the oil industry on the town, check out the Bartlesville Area History Museum, Phillips Petroleum Company Museum, and the Nellie Johnstone No. 1.
Enjoy an evening at the Bartlesville Kiddie Park for inexpensive entertainment for the little ones.
Grab lunch at Frank and Lola’s Neighborhood Restaurant and dinner at the Painted Horse Bar & Grille.
Final Thoughts on Osage Hills State Park
Overall, Osage Hills State Park is a beautiful and unique Oklahoma park that offers something for everyone in the family. Whether you are looking for a casual day of hiking or mountain biking, exploring nature and birdwatching, or swimming in the pool on a hot summer day, Osage Hills State Park is the perfect spot to explore.
Invite your friends and your family to come along for the adventure – you won’t be sorry you visited this beautiful Oklahoma state park!
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