Don’t let the 2.4-mile length of the trail fool you. This trail starts out fairly flat, but when it opens up onto the boulder field, you’ll have to climb, hop, and even crawl to get through the irregular terrain. However, the views of Oklahoma’s prairie landscapes are stunning when viewed atop one of the formations. Bring plenty of water. Make sure you have good, sturdy hiking boots with ankle support. Above all, watch out for rattlesnakes.
The trail begins at Cedar Lake and takes you through the Ouachita National Forest. In the fall, this hike is not only exhilarating, but gorgeous with the changing colors of the leaves. It’s close to the Talimena Scenic Byway. Hikers are welcome all year long, but summers get hot. You’ll hike 11 miles if you take the complete route, but it can be demanding in places due to steep grades and long climbs up the mountain. You can drink the water from the area’s springs and streams, provided you treat it first.
These dedicated hiking trails are popular, but they do present a challenge. Together, the trails are five miles in length, but you don’t have to hike the entire system at one time. The Creek Loop Trail is about 1.5 miles-long and will take you through the woods and into rocky bluffs. The trails were carefully thought out for an enjoyable, but not too difficult hike. All of the trails are easily accessible from the campgrounds or park office. Depending on the season you visit, you may spot white-tailed deer, grey fox, wild turkey, or a bald eagle.
This trail system is seven smaller trails that can be mixed and matched. The entire trail is about 12.5 miles-long. The Skyline Trail runs five miles, and is one of the more advanced routes. You won’t get lost because the trail is well marked, but you’ll cross streams and enjoy steep climbs as you take on the nature trail. The system is considered one of the best in Oklahoma. It can be challenging and invigorating, but the landscape is absolutely gorgeous. You can primitive camp, but you’ll want to make sure to bring a camp stove as campfires are not permitted.
This trail system requires a free permit to hike, bike, or ride a horse though the park. It’s simply a way to keep track of the users and make sure everyone understands that this is a “quiet-water” zone. No motorized vehicles are allowed on the trails. The area is virtually untouched, and there is always plenty of wildlife to view. There are over 25 miles of trails, clearly marked and usually free of brush. If you want to camp, note that there are hardly any amenities.
]]>Broken Bow Lake is known for its deep clear water and trout fishing spots, but it’s a great place to take the jet ski out, as well. Located in the Ouachita Mountains, the lake offers spectacular landscapes and many other water activities. There are a couple of places to rent jet skis and water toys if you aren’t into hauling your own. The lake is cold and deep which makes it ideal for all types of watersports, but if you get tired and need a break, you’ll enjoy relaxing in nature or taking a hike in the mountains.
As the largest lake in Oklahoma, Lake Eufaula is probably the best place to enjoy jet skiing. There’s more than 100,000 surface acres of water, with plenty of boat ramps at the local parks and marinas. Lake Eufaula Jet Ski Rental offers hourly, half-day, and full-day rentals of jet skis while also retailing accessories and supplies for your day of fun. The two state parks are nice places to camp for the weekend, too, but you might want to make reservations because Lake Eufaula is a popular destination for tourists.
Grand Lake offers a number of places to rent jet skis, and even more docks and places for lake access. There are restaurants along the lake where you can dock, have a bite, and then get back on the water. We recommend Indian Hills Marina in Bernice. Their Sunday chicken dinner just can’t be beat. Bernice State Park is right on the lake’s edge, and it’s a nice place to camp, but there are campgrounds all around the lake where you can access the water and enjoy a good night’s sleep.
One of the best and most popular lakes for watersports in southern Oklahoma has to be Lake Murray. The lake was designed for recreational sports, and it’s completely within Lake Murray State Park. Lake Murray Water Sports & Mini Golf is just one of many places where you can rent jet skis and find other equipment for a day of fun on the water.
Lake Stanley Draper has been a favorite spot for boaters in central Oklahoma. The water levels were too low for several years, due to work on the lake and then a drought, but in 2014 boaters and skiers were welcomed back to enjoy the lake. Lake Draper Marina is a great place to stop in case you’re short on any supplies. Camping is also available near the lake. Many of the campsites are bucolic yet affordable.
]]>Beavers Bend State Park has many hiking trails of different difficulties, but the Beaver Lodge Nature Trail is a favorite because you will see stunning views and hear the sound of rushing water for added stress relief. It’s about one mile, and although it is beautiful at any time of the year, the best time to visit is in the fall when the leaves are turning colors. If the trail floods, it can be much more difficult to hike it.
The entire system of this area has more than 25 miles of hiking trails. Motor vehicles are not permitted and it is a “quiet-water zone,” which is strictly enforced. You must get a permit before hiking, but it is free. The main loop is a longer trail, at 10 miles with some areas that are a little more difficult. There are plenty of campsites, but many do not have amenities. However, the trails are very well maintained and clearly marked.
The hiking trail at Greenleaf Lake is almost 40 years-old. It’s one long 18-mile loop, but it can be broken down into a north and a south loop. It’s at least an intermediate level trail, with some areas that might be considered expert level. If you take the southeast trail, which hugs the shoreline of the lake, you cross a suspension bridge where you’ll get some beautiful pictures of the area. The path has a few switchbacks, due to the elevation changes.
The Yellow Trail is a 4.4-mile loop which takes about two or three hours to hike. You’ll get some beautiful views of both Tulsa and the Arkansas River. The difficulty level is moderate. The park has been GPS-mapped and maps are available at the parking lots and at kiosks throughout the park, but you can also download a topographical map at the website. It is a beautiful urban wilderness that is open to hikers, cyclists and equestrians. Pets are welcome on a leash.
The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge features over 30 miles of nature trails. The Elk Mountain trail is short, but it does have a higher difficulty level because it is steep. However, it’s worth it to have a 270-degree view of the surrounding mountains. You’ll find lots of picturesque moments, and usually, you’ll see lots of wildlife as you explore the area. There is no fee for daily use, and the visitor center will have a lot of helpful information and maps. Cell service is spotty in the area, so you can unplug for the day.
]]>The ATV and motorcycle trails are located on the northwest end of Lake Murray. The 10 miles of trails have sand and varying terrain to bring riders an exhilarating adventure. On a busy weekend, you’ll need to be cautious when riding, but Jeeps and dune buggies aren’t allowed, so you won’t have to worry about that. It costs $10 per rider, and there is even camping on-site. It’s a beautiful location for taking your bike out on the trail!
This area features almost 1,000 acres of trails for ATVs and dirt bikes. City permits are required, but you can get them at the marina. The riding area is next to a campground where you can relax between rides. The riding permit costs $10 per day per rider, but if you plan on going out often, get an annual permit which lets you ride all year long, weather permitting. Just make sure to check closing time, because all vehicles need to be out of the parking area, not just off the trails.
Angel Ridge features a full-size motocross track, a freestyle area, a pee-wee track, and an outdoor national track. The track is open all week long, sun up to sun down. Riders will need a Department of Transportation-approved helmet, goggles, and boots. The terrain is mostly for amateurs and novices, but there are some obstacles which will add a challenge.
WHORP has a nice track that follows the natural terrain. You’ll need a permit to ride at this privately-owned park, but it’s well-kept and has a number of nice trails that wind through the wooded areas and fields around the main track. The park is open year-round, weather permitting. Overnight camping is permitted prior to race days.
This complex has a motocross track, a pit bike track, and supermoto track. They’ve recently started a motocross school, for beginners to pros, and there’s a bike shop on-site. Make sure to check the schedule for events. Beginners can learn the basics on pit bike track while the other tracks are more of a challenge.
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Lake Murray is a popular vacation site for Oklahomans. The ATV trails are on the northwest side of the lake. The trails area costs $10 per rider. It’s about 1,000 acres for ATVs, motorcycles, and dirt bikes. There are about 10 miles of trails with great sand. There is a campsite in the area to let you spend your time focusing on the ride, not on all the details.
Little Sahara is probably the most popular spot for off-roading and ATVs with almost 1,500 acres of sand. The park is completely geared toward ATV riding, and you can even ride at night. Riders must pay a daily fee of $10, but there are miles of trails in the sand dunes, as well as open areas of sand. There are plenty of places to rent ATVs, gas up, and get drinks and food. You’ll also find over 200 campsites, first come, first serve. You’ll want to make sure you have the proper equipment to ride, so check their website for more details!
There are about 33 miles of open road in the Ouachita National Forest open to ATVs year-round. During the summer, another 20 miles open up. You need a permit to ride in the area, and you have to make sure you stay on the open roads. Off-roading on the forest floor is prohibited. The rules are there to protect the environment. Read the rules before taking your ATV out, but the terrain is varied and challenging.
Robbers Cave State Park opened to ATVs last year. It’s open only to ATVs, no Jeeps. There are 250 acres with trails for riding, and what makes this park unique is that it is mostly rocky and rugged terrain. It’s much different than the two other state parks where ATVs can ride. The terrain can be steep at times, but the views are amazing. It costs $20 a day per ATV, not riders. The park is open dawn to dusk. There are no rental opportunities in the area.
Red River ATV Park is for those who enjoy mud and sun. It features over 400 acres of riding area, that is open all year-round on the weekends. You’ll find showers and bathrooms, as well as a vehicle wash station. You’ll need to bring your own ATV, because there are no rentals. It costs $15 per person per day, but if you love riding through the mud, this is one of the best spots in Oklahoma.
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Turner Falls Park is probably one of the most popular parks in the state. Families love to hike back to the waterfall and swim in the lake. There’s also a rock castle and caves to explore as part of the hiking experience. Many animals can be spotted in the Arbuckle Mountains, and the biosphere offers a number of botanical species to discover. You’ll find different levels of trails, giving your family a chance to start out with a beginner’s hike and working up to a longer day in the mountains. Make sure to plan before you head out, as this is a popular hiking spot!
Oxley Nature Center is located in the heart of Tulsa, not where you might think of hiking. It features 10 interconnected trails, which allow you to find the right level of difficulty for your family. The Red Fox Trail features a self-guided sensory awareness tour, while Bob’s Trail has a 600-foot boardwalk, letting you stick your hands into the marsh to explore the plants and animals in the water. The nature center is also a great place for birdwatching, butterfly sightings and tree identification. You’ll find a prairie, a forest, and a water system to explore different ecosystems.
Beaver’s Bend State Park is located close to the Arkansas state line on the east side of Oklahoma. Within the park, you’ll find a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. The Forest Heritage Tree Trail is a looped trail that begins and ends at the Forest Heritage Center Museum. It’s a fairly easy trail with a couple of climbs that add a little challenge. Cedar Bluff Trail is one of the more difficult trails with steep climbs and creek crossings. But it is also a nature trail. The trails in the park are carefully marked to keep you on the right path.
Lake Murray has a great hiking trail system. Most of the trails are clearly marked, but you’ll want to take a trail map with you just in case. The park system has set up restrooms and water along some of the trails, which makes this a great place to hike with a family. The area is home to over 10 miles of both hiking and biking trails, with opportunities to take in the sights of a beautiful waterfall, wild animals, and a lot of native Oklahoma flora.
The Martin Park Nature Center is an adventure the little ones will surely enjoy. With 2.5 miles of woodland trails and a visitor center with live animals, Martin Park brings children closer to nature. Consider booking a guided nature hike, for $2 per person, where children can gain an education of the area while they explore.
]]>The Oklahoma City Parks & Recreation Department maintain 80 miles of running/hiking/walking trails around the city. For a beautiful run along the river, take the Oklahoma River Trails. The entire length of the trail is 13 miles. Of those, 6.5 miles are dedicated trails right next to the Oklahoma River. Park at Wheeler Park, Lincoln Ave Bridge or SW 15 and Portland for easy access. This trail connects to five other trails if you’re looking for a longer run.
St. Crispin’s Conference Center is operated by the Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma, but they have graciously opened the trails to visitors. It’s the perfect outdoor experience, over 450 acres with oak trees, spring-fed lakes, and rolling hills. The trails range in length from one mile to 2.3 miles. Altogether, it’s about 8.2 miles. Some of the trails have special sites along the path. The green trail, for example, has a labyrinth. The yellow trail has some spectacular views, especially at the Lookout, which overlooks one of the lakes.
This trail system is located on the south side of Lake Thunderbird. It has more than 18 miles of trails that are interconnected, but each individual trail can be hiked on its own as a loop. The Green and Yellow loops are best for beginners. The Red and Blue Loops are a bit more challenging. The Gold Loop, at 10 miles, is designed for expert runners. These trails are also open to mountain bikes, so be cautious.
This area has over 30 miles of multi-use trails that are considered some of the best trails in Oklahoma. The Red Trail is very popular for bikers and runners, because it’s far from the road and the water’s edge. The terrain varies through three different sections. The first section has gully crossings and short climbs. The second section has more dry gullies and winds under the oak canopies. The third section has some switchbacks, steep crossings and a roller coaster of ups and downs when you get close to the finish line. There’s a lot of specific information on the website to tell you about each of the five trails to get a feel for which one you want to try first.
Cavanal Mountain is considered the “tallest hill in the world.” The trail is about five miles to the top. It’s known as the “uphill killer,” and you may need to walk some sections, but when you get to the top, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of the area. You’ll also find a deep hand dug well that is over 100 years-old. But then, you also have to get back down the mountain. Don’t try this run without some experience behind you.
]]>Hickory House is on the northwest side of the lake. Grab some coffee and breakfast before your day of fun outside. It’s a traditional diner with good home-style cooking.
Appalachia Bay Recreation Area is the only one at Keystone Lake open for off-roading, but it’s a popular site for off-roaders. Go 12 miles west of Sand Springs on Highway 64 to the Bear’s Glen exit. Take a right turn, after the overpass, turn right again. Then take the first left to the end of the road. This particular area has picnic tables and restrooms. There is a fee for daily use, $4 per vehicle. The area can close when the waters are high. It’s an urban wildlife refuge, with plenty of birds. Bring a camera and binoculars to enjoy nature. In some seasons, you might even see eagles.
The Steer Inn is a locally-owned family steakhouse that serves lunch and dinner. On Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, they offer an all-you-can-eat buffet, but the steaks are highly recommended. They hand bread their onion rings too, so don’t miss out on those!
Meadowlake Ranch is a bed and breakfast, dude ranch, and event center nestled among spring-fed lakes, waterfalls, bluffs, and gardens. It’s the perfect place to stay after a day of off-roading. You can soak in an oversized Jacuzzi tub and then relax in the tranquil evening. In the morning, you’ll be treated to hot coffee and a delicious southern breakfast. Ask about their “Dude for a Day” if you’d like to try your hand at ranch activities.
Sand Springs was a planned industrial town, and it has a rich history. Page is fondly remembered in the community today. The museum was built to honor him. It’s a lovely example of Art Deco architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places in America. It houses many exhibits which illustrate Sand Springs’ history. It’s the first stop on the self-guided historic tour map. When you leave the museum, take a walk around town to visit some of the most interesting places that tell the story of Sand Springs. It includes a Native American Cemetery, St. Patrick’s Parish, and the springs.
]]>Bookdocker’s Landing is a private RV resort along the Mountain Fork River, but it does open its gates to hikers and birdwatchers. It costs $8 a day per person, but the park limits the number of guests to allow for spaciousness and quiet. The scissor-tailed flycatcher, Oklahoma’s state bird, snowy owls, purple martins, and painted buntings call this park home. From November to March, it’s common to see bald eagles along the cliffs. There are 12 dedicated trails in the park, and you can rent kayaks and canoes to catch the wildlife along the river’s edge.
The Salt Plains refuge is more well known for selenite crystals that get dug up in the area, but it’s home to hundreds of species of birds who nest here and feed on the salt brine flies. Every week, the staff performs a wildlife survey, and posts results online. More than 12 types of ducks were spotted recently, along with whooping cranes, killdeer, American white pelicans, Franklin gulls, and bald eagles. It’s an amazing place to hike any time of the year. This habitat was established in 1930 and has more than 32,000 acres where migratory birds can find sanctuary.
Black Mesa is the highest point in Oklahoma, and this park has a lot to offer. Golden eagles, scaled quail, and pinyon jays are often seen in the area, as are many local mammals, such as black bears, antelope, mountain lions, and bobcats. It has a unique ecosystem, because it marks the area where the Rocky Mountains meet the prairie. The park boasts eight rare animal species and 23 rare plants. When you visit, make sure to stay overnight to enjoy an area without light pollution to see the stars. During the winter months, make sure to check the weather before driving out.
This urban wildlife center has more than two miles of woodland trails and a specific birdwatching area. The INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation Courage Trail is ADA-accessible, allowing individuals with limited mobility an opportunity to explore nature without struggling on rough trails. The park opens at 5 a.m. daily, which gives you a chance to hike early and watch birds go through their morning routine. It’s an excellent place to really get in touch with nature without having to drive very far (if you live in Oklahoma City.)
This eight-acre botanical garden is most known for its beautiful plants, but it has some great birdwatching areas, as well. It features seven different gardens, each with its own character. The Japanese Pavilion Garden has a koi pond, and many waterfowl call it home. The Oriental Garden features shade plants, while the American Backyard Garden has plants that will thrive without a lot of water. From spring to fall, you’ll find birds and butterflies enjoying the gardens. In October, you may see the white pelicans migrating through the area.
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The Illinois River is a good place for beginners for a lot of reasons. There are many places to rent a kayak along Highway 10, and a lot of public access points to the river. It’s fairly easy to paddle, but does have some rapids that will challenge beginners. Over 250 species of birds have been spotted in the area, including bald eagles. Most of the rentals are only open May to October, but private boaters get on the river all year long. Just make sure your kayak is registered with the state!
Although Lake Eufaula isn’t a river, it’s still a nice place to kayak. It’s fed by three rivers, and features miles and miles of shoreline. As you go from north to south, terrain changes. The lake has been flooded for quite a while thanks to spring rains, but some say it’s easier to kayak when the lake is higher. The state park has some nice launch sites, but practically anywhere there is a boat ramp, you can drop your kayak in the water. Lake Eufaula is home to many species of flora and fauna, making it ideal for a float trip.
Mountain Fork River is probably the best whitewater stream in Oklahoma. You might want to call one of the local outfitters before making your trip to find out what the paddling conditions are. Below the hydroelectric dam, the river is rated as a Class II Whitewater, which might be a challenge for newer kayakers, but exciting and fun. You’ll find many places where you can rent a kayak close to the river, and there are a lot of places to put your kayak into the water.
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The best stretch of river for kayaking is near Turner Falls. It’s rated as a Class II or III Whitewater, depending on the river level and location. The best times for paddling here are in early summer, before the heat of summer evaporates the water. There aren’t many outfitters in this part of the state, but a few have popped up and are open during the summer season. This section is a nice place for novices, because you can spend time outdoors and experience some challenging sections of river.
The Kiamichi River is close to the Mountain Fork River, and offers Class I and II float trips, but after a heavy rain, the river might have some Class III rapids. Although spring and fall are the best times to kayak this river, it’s still a nice place to explore in the summer. K River Campground is a great place to stay and put your kayak in the water. You can even take a full-moon night float, if you’d like. You can call the campground to find out the water level before driving down to this site.
]]>This store is Oklahoma City’s only locally-owned and independent fishing tackle retailer. They advertise competitive prices with excellent customer service.
This bait shop is near the main boat dock at Tom Steed Lake. Find all varieties of bait at Tom Steed. In addition to bait, this shop features beer and burgers. What’s better than that?
Grand Lake has many great places for fishing, all year long. The owners at Ketch-Um Bait Shop can point you in the right direction and have all the equipment you need to toss a line into the water.
TJ’s went through a remodel earlier this year. It’s been updated to include a restaurant, but it still carries bait and fishing equipment. It has friendly service from locals who know the area and all of bait you could ever need!
One reviewer on Facebook says that this bait shop feels like visiting your grandma and grandpa’s house, and we think that’s pretty special. The owners know the area and carry a large selection of fresh and frozen bait for the best catch of the day.
Nabatak Outdoors has been serving fishermen in the Claremore area since 1967. With that kind of history, you know they’ll be up on the best fishing holes. This store is more like a sporting store, with all types of apparel and equipment for a day on the lake.
At D/J’s, you’ll find live bait, cold drinks, and more for your fishing outing. The owners are active in the community and have a lot of knowledge about the best fishing locations in the area.
At Big Al’s, you’ll find custom fishing lures and tackle. The store gets live bait in from Louisiana and Texas each week, so it’s really fresh. But you’ll find frozen bait like chicken livers and gizzard shad, if that’s what you want. It also has rods and reels, plus years of experience to help you find the gear that works for you.
At this full-service marina, you can find live bait and tackle, plus get your boat serviced by certified techs. You’ll find Bass Cat boats, Polar Kraft boats, and even used boats for great deals.
The Mountain Fork River is one of the best places for fly fishing in Oklahoma. This tackle shop not only carries the gear and equipment you’ll need, but can also offer guides to help you hone your technique and find the best spots to catch some trout.
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Situated on the Oklahoma/Texas, Love Valley is a popular spot among hunters, but also serves as a wonderful place to truly get off the beaten path. There are several primitive camping spots throughout the management area that allow for an authentic, rustic camping experience.
The Ouachita Mountains are absolutely stunning any season, but fall is when nature takes it up a notch. There are several trail systems, some just one-mile-long while others are a bit more challenging and lengthy. The main campground is only open from March 1 through Dec. 1 each year, but the backpacker’s camp is open year-round. The amenities include tent pads, fire rings, lantern poles, and a pit toilet. It’s located on the Talimena Scenic Byway, but you’ll have to take a small hike to get to the campground itself.
Go out west to the Black Kettle National Grassland in Roger Mills County. It’s a 30,000-acre prairie with wide open spaces and lots of sky. Scenes from the movie, “The Grapes of Wrath” were filmed just a few miles away from here. You’ll get a glimpse of what life was like in the grasslands. There are plenty of hiking trails and camping areas, but some are primitive. Even in the winter months, it can still be temperate enough to backpack and camp, just bring warm clothes for sleeping.
Take the 18-mile Ankle Express Trail for an interesting hike that includes a swinging bridge, some uneven terrain, and steep grades for a challenge. Hiking is free, too, but visitors are required to register with the time of departure, emergency contact number, and their own cell phone number for safety. Kids fish at no charge in the kids pond and no permit is required. Although some of the RV campsites close for the winter season, from Dec. 1 to March 1, many of the campgrounds remain open to backpackers.
Spanning 101,620 acres, the Honobia Creek Wildlife Management Area makes for some of the best backcountry camping in the state. Be sure to pick up a Land Access Permit, which is required of all visitors of the area. Wildlife abounds at Honobia Creek, with quail, deer, turkey, rabbit, and waterfowl inhabiting the area. There are no designated camping areas here, but pack-in camping is permitted.
]]>The Gloss Mountains are located near Fairview, Oklahoma. Sometimes, they’re called the Glass Mountains, because of the selenite content that makes these mountains appear to have a shiny, glass-like exterior. The park has restroom facilities, and public water and grills. Climbing to the top of Cathedral Mountain gives you a spectacular view across the landscape. Bring your camera to take home your memories!
The Wildlife Department recommends taking Loop 8 around the area to experience the mesas that glitter with bright hues of green, gold, and blue. Take Highway 412 between Orienta and Bouse Junction for a scenic route that is also a great birding route. You might see road runners, turkey vultures, and eagles.
Park in the lower parking lot. Follow the trail to the top of Cathedral Mountain. The trail is 1.2 miles in length. The park has brochures available which point out the interesting facts, but you’ll see many rock formations, working oil pump jacks, ponds, wildlife, and stunning views along every step of the hike. There’s a stairway system in place to help you get to the top.
About 30 miles northeast of the park, you’ll find a museum that was once a Harvey House. It’s a nice place to get some history about the area and see what it might have been like riding the train in the late-19th century.
This authentic German restaurant is a great place to get dinner. It’s been serving Bavarian food, like jaeger schnitzel, pretzels and authentic German beers since 1998. While this is an Oklahoma favorite all year long, the German cuisine is particularly excellent during the colder months.
At one time, sod houses dotted the Oklahoma landscape. This sod house in Aline, about 20 miles from the state park, is the only one remaining in Oklahoma that was built in the late-19th century. This museum has preserved early artifacts from a homesteader’s life. It’s a great exhibit to experience what life might have been like in early statehood.
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The state park doesn’t offer campsites, but this ranch, just a few minutes away from the park has campsites, RV sites, and a lodge. They have a stocked farm pond, just bring your license and equipment. From May to September, the wildflowers are in bloom and truly a sight to see. The light pollution is limited, making star gazing a great evening activity!
]]>Bernice is known as the “Crappie Capital of the World.” The fishing at the park is off the hook, pun intended. Largemouth bass, white bass, and channel catfish are abundant. If you’re not into fishing, you’ll find plenty of places to birdwatch. The walking path is handicap-accessible and features two wildlife watch towers. The park also boasts a nature center. The opportunities are endless here and you’ll enjoy every moment of being immersed in nature.
This museum houses over 50 custom-built exotic vehicles. Although many were built by Starbird himself over the past 50 years, some of the cars are from other designers. You don’t have to be a car enthusiast to appreciate these vehicles, many of which were futuristic in their day.
This museum has several historic buildings which house antiques, collectibles, and reproductions, to give visitors a chance to see what life was like in the late 19th century in Oklahoma. The Village opens in March for the tourist season. Check out the calendar for historic trade and craft demonstrations.
Enjoy the games and entertainment at this casino not far from the lake’s shore. Venue 655 Restaurant is a great place to grab a meal, but the real excitement are the gaming machines. Come in, relax, and try to win big!
For some down-home cooking, Road Hog is the place to be. The décor is definitely unique. The motorcycle over the bar is truly an antique. The French fries are made fresh. The pork is smoked in-house. The burgers cooked to order. Get lunch here. You won’t regret it.
If you’re not into camping, you’ll find off- and on-season accommodations at this lakeside resort. Stay in the hotel, or get a private cabin with all the amenities you’d expect.
Plan a fishing trip with this fisherman who has 26 years of experience catching fish in Grand Lake. He can accommodate large parties, furnishes tackle and gear, and takes you to some of the best fishing spots on the lake.
This golf course sits near the Pensacola Dam which makes a lovely backdrop while you’re teeing off. It’s a beautiful public course with tree-lined fairways and minimum water hazards.
The Artichoke won the People’s Choice Award at the 2017 Taste of Grand event. It’s a charming restaurant, a renovated farmhouse that retained its style. The chef knows how to cook a steak to perfection. They use fresh, local produce, growing their own herbs and supporting local producers. The restaurant is eco-friendly and locally-owned. Make reservations for dinner, especially in the summer months, to make sure you get a table.
]]>If you’re looking for solar power or rechargers to take on your hiking trip, this store carries a large selection of Goal Zero and YETI products that will fit into your backpack for added power when you’re out in nature.
Native Summit is locally owned and operated by outdoor enthusiasts who stock and sell products that they have used and believe in. You’ll find a great selection of lightweight hiking boots and shoes and many other pieces of equipment that will keep you safe and comfortable on the trail.
You can find all types of hiking gear at Bass Pro Shops, but one thing you’ll want to throw in your pack are the SOL emergency blankets, ponchos, and first aid kits. These items are extremely lightweight and easy to carry, but vital in case you get lost or stranded. It’s a small thing, but it will add to your peace of mind when you’re out on a mountain.
Since 1973, Backwoods has been supplying hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts with the best gear. Find everything from Oboz hiking shoes to breathable fleeces from MtnLogic for those chillier expeditions. Backwoods will supply you with everything you will need for a successful and safe hiking experience.
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Stillwater Summit Co. is the destination to shop at before you conquer your next outdoor adventure. On their site, they state that, "it is our mission to provide the best quality outdoor gear & apparel along with the best customer service,” and that they do! It is a known fact that the owners and staff here are incredible and with brands like YETI and Cotopaxi, you are sure to leave happy.
Ascent, located in Tulsa, carries an extremely well-selected inventory of hiking gear, clothing, shoes, and tools. You can find everything you'll need to “ascend” on your next escapade! Not only do they carry the finest products from brands, like Arc’teryx and Kuhl, but the raved-about customer service is just outstanding! Check out Ascent and feed your passion.
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