Natural Falls is well-known for its appearance in the 1970s movie Where the Red Fern Grows. But, there are even more things to do at Natural Falls State Park than just checking out the awesome waterfall!
Since I only live a few hours from the park, I visit often. During my most recent trip, my family and I spent an amazing Mother’s Day at the park. We enjoyed the day hiking through the picturesque trails and enjoyed a picnic lunch. We couldn’t resist exploring every nook and cranny of the park.
Things to Do at Natural Falls State Park
Natural Falls is a stunning Oklahoma state park! It offers a variety of outdoor activities and fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities for visitors to enjoy.
1. Natural Falls State Park Hiking
With over four miles of trails, Natural Falls State Park is a good hiking destination. Most of the trails are connected. You can easily customize the length of your hike. This makes hiking one of the best things to do at Natural Falls State Park.
Dripping Springs Trail
The Dripping Springs Trail is the star of the park! This ½ mile path follows the beautiful “Dripping Springs” and leads straight to the popular waterfall.
If you’re short on time or not up for a long hike, this trail is perfect for you. Take a leisurely stroll to the overlook at the top of the Ozark springs, or venture down 47 steps to the base of the falls. Just remember to stay on the elevated boardwalk trail to help protect the plant life.
The trail keeps going alongside the stream to the fishing area and up a steep incline, revealing some great views along the bluff.
Once you reach the top of the hill, this trail will lead you to the expansion bridge – a 110 foot high crossing over the spring valley. Take in the beautiful scenery from the treetops and get a bird’s-eye view of the falls as you make your way back to where the trail begins.
Bear Trail
Steep and technical, this 1/10th of a mile trail near Rankin RV Area quickly descends to meet the Dripping Springs Trail. Look for the hidden Ozark spring. This trail takes about 10 minutes to complete.
Ghost Coon Trail
Ghost Coon Trail, located on the east side of the park, is a picturesque 1.3 mile loop. Along the trail, you’ll enjoy stunning views of falls, native prairie, and high bluff overlooks. The estimated walking time is 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Pine Ridge Trail
The paved Pine Ridge Trail, a multi-use trail that spans ¾ of a mile, is perfect for connecting all areas of the park. Just keep in mind, it does cross park roads. The portions west of the park visitor center area are A.D.A. accessible, while the rest of the trail gently slopes from the office to the shelter and down to the entrance of Drippings Springs.
Fox Den Trail
Fox Den Trail is tucked away on the west side of the park, nestled between the tent and RV area. It offers a 1.5-mile journey that takes you to a captivating rock overhang, cavern area, and the stream below the dam.
Be ready for some elevation changes as this trail can be a bit challenging at times. Also, it is a little tricky to follow in certain spots.
2. Natural Falls State Park Fishing
After hiking, one of the best things to do at Natural Falls State Park is fishing. Anglers can access the catch-and-release fishing area of the lake by taking the Dripping Springs trail, adding an enjoyable hike to the fishing experience.
Once you arrive at the fishing spot, you’ll be greeted with the convenience of picnic tables and benches. It’s the perfect place to kick back, relax, and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
3. Natural Falls Recreation
After you have hiked and gone fishing, check out these other things to do at Natural Falls State Park. You’ll find plenty of recreation activities to keep the whole family busy.
The parks has an 18-hole disc golf course, a basketball court, a volleyball net, and horseshoes for some friendly competition. And if you are traveling with kids, there are even two playgrounds to keep them happy and entertained!
Things to Do Near Natural Falls State Park
You cannot swim at Natural Falls State Park. But, there are a few places nearby that are great for swimming.
4. Flint Creek Water Park
Flint Creek Water Park, located just 3 miles west of Natural Falls, is a popular swimming attraction in the area. They are open 7 days a week during the summer. Most of the water is shallow making it great for families.
5. Blue Hole Park
Blue Hole Park is another popular swimming attraction in the area. It is about 30 miles northwest of the state park. Because of the shallow water in places, it is another great family-friendly place to swim.
Blue Hole Park is open 7 days a week throughout the summer and costs $15 per car to swim. You can tent camp or park your RV here on a first come first serve basis. There are also cabins available.
Natural Falls State Park Accommodations
Besides all the amazing things to do at Natural Falls State Park, why not consider staying overnight to experience even more of the park?
While there are not any state park cabins at Natural Falls State Park, there are a few other accommodation options within the park including camping and yurts.
Natural Falls State Park Yurts
If you are looking for a unique accommodation experience, stay at one of Natural Falls State Park’s yurts.
The Dogwood and Redbud both sleep two to four people and come with a futon and a queen-size bed. The Elm, Red Oak, and Cedar both sleep four to six people and come with 2 sets of bunk beds with one queen and one twin mattress.
Inside amenities include a microwave, mini-fridge, air conditioning and heating, coffee maker, dining table with four chairs, and a ceiling fan. Outside amenities include a picnic table, grill, fire ring, deck, lantern hanger, and a portable lavatory. There is no running water available at the yurt.
You can reserve a yurt through the Oklahoma tourism website, TravelOK. Reservations for weekends require a two-night minimum stay and holiday weekends require a three-night stay.
There are a few things that you should know prior to your visit. There is no running water available at the yurt. You will be given access to a utility cart to get around the park. You can bring your own linens or pay extra to have them provided.
Natural Falls State Park Campgrounds
The park has a tent campground with 17 sites and an RV campground with over 40 sites. The tent sites are secluded on a loop at the edge of the park. They each come with a fire ring, grill, and picnic table.
The RV campground sites also come with a fire ring, grill, and picnic table. Max length and electric amps vary. You can book a site on the TravelOK website.
There are restrooms, showers, and a playground conveniently located near the campgrounds.
Natural Falls State Park FAQs
Is Natural Falls State Park free?
It is not free. Natural Falls State Park requires a daily parking pass that costs $10 for passenger vehicles. If you have an Oklahoma or Oklahoma tribal license plate, the cost is reduced to $8.
There are signs posted all over the park with the information. You can pay from your phone or using the app. 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.
Where is Natural Falls State Park?
Natural Falls State Park is nestled in Northeastern Oklahoma, near the towns of Colcord and West Siloam Springs. It is near the Oklahoma and Arkansas border.
If you’re making your way from Tulsa on a day trip, a drive east on highway 412 for about an hour will lead you to this hidden gem. Alternatively, the park is just an hour’s drive southwest of Rogers, Arkansas.
How tall is the waterfall at Natural Falls State Park?
The waterfall at Natural Falls State Park, also known as Dripping Springs Falls or Natural Falls, has a height of approximately 77 feet. It’s a beautiful and iconic feature of the park, attracting visitors who come to enjoy the scenic surroundings and the waterfall’s natural beauty.
Can you swim at Natural Falls?
Swimming is not allowed at Natural Falls due to safety concerns and the preservation of the delicate ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to admire the beauty of the falls from designated viewpoints and enjoy the surrounding hiking trails.
Are pets allowed at Natural Falls State Park?
Pets are allowed at Natural Falls State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Visitors are expected to clean up after their pets to keep the park clean.
When is the best time to visit Natural Falls State Park?
Spring is the best time to visit Natural Falls. The waterfall varies throughout the year depending on the amount of rain in the area. Spring typically has the most rainfall and creates the best waterfall experience.
Even though spring is the best, this state park can be enjoyed year-round.
Places to Stay Nearby
West Siloam Springs in Oklahoma and Siloam Springs in Arkansas are the closest towns with accommodations. They are both a short drive from the park.
Places to Eat Nearby
Kansas, Oklahoma is about 15 minutes west of the park. Harvest House and Heart & Soul Kitchen both serve traditional southern cuisine.
Siloam Springs, Arkansas is about 15 minutes east of Natural Falls State Park. Siloam Springs has plenty of restaurant options to choose from. Fratelli’s Wood-Fired Pizzeria, Cathy’s Corner, and Taqueria El Rancho are a few popular options.
Other Oklahoma State Parks Nearby
The eastern side of Oklahoma is a treasure trove of Oklahoma state parks, just waiting to be explored. You can wander through additional trails, soaking in the peaceful vibes of Oklahoma. It’s a perfect way to make your trip even more memorable!
- Robbers Cave State Park: 2.5 hours, 130 miles
- Grand Lake State Park: 45 minutes, 40 miles
- Sequoyah State Park: 1 hour, 50 miles
- Tenkiller State Park: 1.5 hours, 70 miles
- Greenleaf State Park: 1.5 hours, 70 miles
Final Thoughts on Natural Falls State Park
Natural Falls State Park, one of the best state parks in Oklahoma, is a great day trip or weekend trip to get outdoors. Immerse yourself in nature, unwind, and savor the best of what Oklahoma has to offer.
There are some great things to do at Natural Falls State Park. With excellent hiking trails, fishing spots, and nearby swimming opportunities, coupled with unique accommodations, this state park is truly a gem worth exploring.
