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Oklahoma has 33 state parks, each with its own identity. Looking for somewhere unique to stay? Sleep in tepees at Roman Nose State Park. Want to try fly fishing? Beavers Bend State Park is the place to go. At Lake Murray State Park, you can sleep on the water in the floating cabins. Here are our picks for the 10 best state parks in Oklahoma.
This park in northwest Oklahoma is the largest natural gypsum cave in the world open to the public. Tours of the cave are available daily. During the summer, four caves are open for spelunking. You’ll need a permit, which can be obtained at the park office. Tent camp sites are available, as are RV sites.
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Little Sahara’s claim to fame is the 1,600 acres of sand dunes, some that reach 75 feet. You can bring your own ATV or rent one off-site at one of the private vendors. Make sure to check the regulations if you’re bringing your own vehicle. Tent sites and RV sites are available for camping.
Black Mesa is the highest point in Oklahoma, 4,973 feet above sea level. You can hike to the top of the summit via a trail that starts at the nature preserve. There are at least 8 rare animal species in the preserve that is operated in conjunction with the state park. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise. It also boasts low light pollution. The skies are very dark at night. During August, you can see the Perseid meteor shower when you’re in the park.
This state park is listed as one of the 10 most beautiful locations in Oklahoma. It’s near the Oklahoma/Arkansas border in northeast Oklahoma. Scenes from “Where the Red Fern Grows” were filmed in the park. The most stunning feature is the 77-foot waterfall. You can view the waterfall from an observation platform overlooking the falls or at the observation deck at the foot of the falls.
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This state park is another lovely place where you’ll find amazing views over a gorgeous lake. The best time to visit is the fall, when the leaves turn colors to paint the countryside. But the crystal clear waters are lovely any time of year. You can enjoy hiking, fishing and other outdoor adventures in any season. There are plenty of tent sites, RV sites and cabins, and a 40-room lodge that has wonderful views of the lake.
The fall foliage is also one of the attractions in this state park, but it gets it notoriety as being a hideout for outlaws Jesse James and Belle Starr. Enjoy trout fishing and hunting in season, hiking, horseback riding and climbing at this state park with cliffs that range from 300 to 1,500 feet high. The Belle Starr View Lodge has 20 rooms with beautiful views of the valley, but there are plenty of RV sites and primitive camping. Equestrian campsites are available at this park.
The saltwater lake in the park is about half as salty as the ocean, which makes this state park unique. You can swim in the lake or go fishing for saugeye, sand bass and catfish. Bring your canoe or kayak and take a ride on the lake. Many migratory birds pass through the area each year. From April 1 to October 15, dig for crystals that form into an hourglass shape. It’s the only place in the world that it’s been found.
This park is one of the first seven parks in Oklahoma. It’s set in a gorgeous location, with gypsum rock cliffs and three natural springs. You can rent mountain bikes, canoes and kayaks as part of your adventure. You can’t swim in the water, but fishing and no-wake boating are allowed. The Roman Nose State Park Lodge has been renovated to reflect the natural beauty of the area, while providing modern amenities for today’s vacationer.
Lake Murray is one of Oklahoma’s best destinations for outdoor activities. You can enjoy fishing and boating most of the year, because the weather is typically milder in southern Oklahoma. There are 1,000 acres of trails for dirt bikes and motorcycles. Other outdoor activities include, golf, hiking, hayrides, tennis courts and paddle boating. The park has plenty of campsites, plus secluded cabins and a lodge.
Keystone State Park is just west of Tulsa. You can rent boats for fishing or water skiing. There’s an ATV/ORV area, just below the dam. The park is a great place for birdwatching, especially during migration. During the summer season, make sure to stop in at the full-service, floating restaurant at the marina. The park has a children’s fishing pond, playgrounds and picnic areas, so it’s great for families.
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