If you’re heading to Oklahoma for some fresh air, why not explore a state park or two? The Sooner State plays host to dozens of amazing state parks, and you will absolutely fall in love with them, especially if you’re an outdoor enthusiast.
With so many options to choose from, finding a state park is the easy part. Choosing between them will be a lot harder. We’ve put together this list of the best state parks in Oklahoma to help you get started.
A tour we think you'll love
1) See What’s Around The Corner At Beavers Bend State Park
If you’d like to go horseback riding during your tour of Oklahoma state parks, consider paying a visit to Beavers Bend. The park rambles along the shores of the Mountain Fork River and Broken Bow Lake, which is one of the most scenic lakes in Oklahoma.
You don’t have to explore the terrain on horseback, although it is a great way to see the sights. Take in the crystalline waters and awe-inspiring timbers from the bow of a canoe, the seat of a bicycle, or your own two feet. Available water sports include waterskiing, fishing, float trips, and much more.
Beavers Bend State Park offers two yurts for camping, as well as rustic cabins, RV sites, and tenting options. Nature-loving families could easily spend a week here without getting bored.
2) Prepare To Be Wowed At Alabaster Caverns State Park
You might think the name is just a metaphor, but you’d be wrong. Alabaster Caverns State Park, located in the northwest portion of the state, is home to a unique cave that is indeed made of alabaster.
The cave itself stretches over three-quarters of a mile, making it the largest gypsum cave in the world. While you’ll certainly want to devote a significant chunk of time to this cave, don’t forget to explore the rest of the state park. There are 200 acres of land to explore, including picnic areas and tent sites if you’d like to spend the night.
3) Get Wet And Wild At Lake Murray State Park
Sprawled across the shores of Lake Murray in Southeast Oklahoma, this park is the oldest and largest in the state. If it’s water sports you’re after, this is the place, although there are impressive hiking trails to be found here as well.
Here’s a sampling of the activities you can expect to enjoy at Lake Murray State Park:
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Golfing (including miniature golf)
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Horseback riding
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Biking
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Rollerblading
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Paddle boating
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Fishing
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Baseball or softball
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Badminton
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Horseshoes
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Volleyball
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ATV riding
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Tennis
Golfing enthusiasts in particular should be pleased with the 18-hole course, which includes a pro shop. There’s also an onsite restaurant, so if you decide to stay at Lake Murray Lodge, you won’t have to leave the grounds to find sustenance.
4) Take A Shine To Gloss Mountain State Park
The Gloss Mountains (sometimes called the “Glass Mountains”) can be found in northwest Oklahoma, just outside of Fairview. They’re named after the high amount of Selenite in their makeup, which gives them a shiny, glass-like appearance.
Spend the morning roaming the prairie floor, scanning the sky overhead for eagles, and watching the lizards scamper among the shrubbery. The park includes restrooms and picnic areas, so you could easily make a day of it.
The rugged, unspoiled beauty of Gloss Mountain State Park makes it worth the trip, despite the relative lack of amenities. You won’t find any camping facilities here, but Gloss Mountain Outfitters and The Newton Ranch are just a short distance away.
5) Zip Across The Sand Dunes At Little Sahara State Park
Also in northwest Oklahoma, you’ll find Little Sahara, a state park that’s one of the best ATV riding spots in the Midwest. The sand dunes here are enormous and formed from terrace deposits, which date back to the days when the entire region was beneath the Cimarron River.
The dune buggy and ATV riding are the main draws here, so if that ranks high on your hit parade, add Little Sahara State Park to your list. Note that while both tent sites and RV sites are available, they must be reserved online in advance.
6) Roam Through Roman Nose State Park
One of Oklahoma’s original seven state parks, this spot offers upscale lodging while maintaining its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. The canyon is home to three natural springs and gypsum rock cliffs, as well as the Roman Nose State Park Lodge, a recently renovated 22-room hotel.
While you’re here, enjoy canoeing, trout fishing, and golfing. Explore the hiking trails on foot, cycle along the mountain biking trails, or take a horseback ride through the canyon. Be forewarned that swimming is only permitted in the park’s two pools.
7) Take In A Slice Of History At Robbers Cave State Park
This gem, tucked into the edges of southeastern Oklahoma, has a rich history that’s best appreciated in person. The Sans Bois Mountains have attracted generations of trappers, hunters, and miners. Now, they’re waiting for you to explore them for yourself.
This is another of the state’s original seven state parks, so if visiting all seven is on your bucket list, you won’t want to miss this one. Reserve a yurt or covered wagon and experience the beauty of Robbers Cave State Park in the old-fashioned way.
Other Great State Parks In Oklahoma
If you’ve visited every state park on this list and are still craving more, here are a few others you might want to consider:
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Tenkiller State Park – Scuba diving in a state park in northeast Oklahoma – who knew?
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Salt Plains State Park – The shimmering salt crystals and vast open plains create a mesmerizing landscape
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Osage Hills State Park – Private cabins tucked within serene hills
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Natural Falls State Park – This Ozark Highlands state park features a 77-foot waterfall
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Fort Cobb State Park – Another haven for water sports enthusiasts
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Greenleaf State Park – Scenic and family-friendly state park
If you don’t want to stray too far from Oklahoma City, Lake Texoma State Park is another solid option. There aren’t many hiking options, but the park does offer some nice equestrian trails and boating opportunities.
Discover The Breathtaking Beauty Of The Cherokee Area At Grand Lake State Park
Immerse yourself in the serene surroundings as you hike through lush trails, fish in crystal-clear waters, or simply relax on the quite shores.
Ready to take your exploration to new heights? Book a thrilling helicopter tour with us at GLOC Aviation and experience an unforgettable aerial perspective of this natural wonderland. Don’t miss out on this exhilarating adventure – book your tour today!
