Hidden Gems for a Family Road Trip- Six National Parks in Oklahoma

Are you looking for a unique and awe-inspiring outdoor vacation experience somewhere unexpected in the United States? Look no further than Oklahoma!

That probably is not where you first imagined when thinking of national parks, but the Sooner State is home to amazing National Parks that offer an unforgettable experience. Each of Oklahoma’s national parks offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature and history. With something for every type of traveler, you won’t be disappointed.

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I have called Oklahoma City home for nearly 20 years, and I’m proud to share where I live with others. From the awe-inspiring beauty of Chickasaw National Recreation Area to the history of the American West at the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site, Oklahoma’s national parks and the entire state for that matter are full of surprises.

If you’re planning a trip to Oklahoma, looking for a day trip, or just passing through, I highly recommend you take some time to explore the state. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the national parks in the state, what to see, and the best time to visit.

National Parks in Oklahoma

When it comes to national park vacations, Oklahoma is often overlooked. Our state is not usually associated with the stunning natural beauty that characterizes America’s western and coastal regions. While Oklahoma may not have the same reputation as states like California or Wyoming, it is home to six national park sites. These sites offer visitors a unique glimpse into the state’s rich history and natural beauty.

What is a National Park?

In the United States, a “national park” is an area designated by Congress as having natural and cultural features of the highest national significance. This designation creates some legal protection for the park to ensure its preservation and conservation in perpetuity.

These park units include traditional National Parks with the capital ‘N’ and ‘P’ such as Arches and Yellowstone, but they also include National Monuments, National Historic Sites, National Historic Trails, and other areas designated by Congress.

In Oklahoma’s case, the majority of our national park sites are “NPS Units” that are not considered true National Parks (note the capital letters there). Although our parks are not designated National Parks by Congress, they are still managed and protected by the National Park Service. This can be a bit confusing for visitors and even locals, especially when the first site on this list below was once a fully designated “National Park”.

Chickasaw National Recreation Area

The Chickasaw National Recreation Area is a popular destination for nature lovers, located in south-central Oklahoma in the foothills of the Arbuckle Mountains. The area was established in 1902 as the Platt National Park, making it the first national park designated in Oklahoma. In 1976, it was combined with Arbuckle Recreation Area to form the Chickasaw National Recreation Area.

The park covers over 9,000 acres of land and is known for its natural springs, crystal clear streams and lakes, rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and abundant wildlife. One of the park’s most popular features is Little Niagara Falls, a small cascading waterfall located on Travertine Creek.

During the summer months, you’ll see plenty of locals and visitors alike cooling off in the spring-fed creeks and in the park’s swimming areas. A trip to the Travertine Nature Center will also provide visitors with a chance to learn more about the area’s unique ecosystems and enjoy interpretive programs offered by the National Park Service throughout the year.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, boating, fishing, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, and more. My favorite hike in the park is Bromide Hill Trail, a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail this is fairly easy for the first half. The second half gets steep towards the end and takes you to one of the highest points in the park offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The park is open year-round and admission is free. Summer is a popular season because, with high summer temperatures in the 90˚F’s, the water is a cool 65˚F. Personally, I think the best time to visit is in the fall when air temperatures are at their most pleasant and the leaves are changing color.

When you are here, be sure to visit Sulphur, Oklahoma, the gateway town to Chickasaw National Recreation Area and the Chickasaw Cultural Center. Sulphur is a picturesque little town with plenty of unique shops and restaurants along its main street. It’s one of my favorite places in the state to go horse-back riding as well. 

The Chickasaw Cultural Center offers visitors a great opportunity to learn about the people and culture of the Chickasaw Nation. There are a variety of activities, short films, and living history demonstrations of traditional Chickasaw art forms. Stop by the Aaimpa’ Cafè for authentic indigenous dishes too.

Recommended Lodging Nearby:

Santa Fe National Historic Trail

The Santa Fe National Historic Trail is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the history and beauty of the American West. This 1,200-mile-long trail crosses five states; Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, and New Mexico.

Families should visit the Santa Fe National Historic Trail to experience the rich history of the American West. The trail follows the historic route once used by traders and settlers in the 1800s. It starts in Independence, Missouri, and ends in Santa Fe, New Mexico. In covered wagons, settlers spent 8 to 10 weeks on the trail. Today by car, you can drive the entire length in just a few days.

While the trail only crosses a small section (approximately 70 miles) of the northwestern corner of Oklahoma, there are still plenty of places to explore and discover. Boise City is the largest city in the area and a great place to start exploring.

Two sites to visit here are the Cimmaron Heritage Center in Boise City, Oklahoma, and Autograph Rock, approximately seven miles west and seven miles north of Boise City. The center is a living history museum that offers visitors an insight into the history of the American West. Autograph Rock, a large boulder covered in signatures of early settlers giving it its name, is a great site to visit and learn about the Santa Fe Trail.

The best time to visit and travel along Oklahoma’s section of the Santa Fe National Historic Trail is during the spring and fall months when temperatures are mild, and the landscape is bursting with color. During the summer months, temperatures can soar, making it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities along the trail. Winter can also be challenging, with icy conditions making hiking and other activities dangerous.

Washita Battlefield National Historic Site

The Washita Battlefield National Historic Site is a must-see for history enthusiasts, located in western Oklahoma near Cheyenne. The park is the site of the Battle of Washita (1868), when Lt. Colonel George Armstrong Custer led the 7th U.S. Cavalry on a surprise attack against the Southern Cheyenne Indian village of Chief Black Kettle.

Visitors to the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site can take part in a variety of activities that offer insight into the history of the site. Two of the most popular activities are a self-guided tour of the battlefield and a visit to the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site Visitor Center, which houses exhibits and displays that showcase the history of the site and the people who fought there.

The best time to visit the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site in Oklahoma is during the spring and fall months when temperatures are mild, and the landscape is in full bloom. Summer can be hot and humid, making outdoor activities uncomfortable, and winter can be cold and snowy, making hiking and exploring the site difficult.

When you are in this area, be sure to check out the nearby Washita River and Fort Cobb State Park. The river is great for enjoying activities such as fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, while the state park offers a variety of outdoor activities including camping, hiking and walking trails, and wildlife viewing.

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Fort Smith National Historic Site

The Fort Smith National Historic Site is another must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the history and beauty of the American West. The site spans two states in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and West Fort Smith, Oklahoma. This was once an important military post and judicial district along the Arkansas River, which both play an important role in America’s westward expansion.

Visitors to the Fort Smith National Historic Site can take part in a variety of activities such as exploring the parade grounds, visiting the visitor center and exhibits, or participating in living history programs. One of the notable sites to see is the restored gallows, which were used to execute prisoners during the site’s time as a federal court.

Most of the sites are located on the Arkansas side of the park, but there is still plenty to explore on the Oklahoma side. The best time to visit the Fort Smith National Historic Site is during the spring through the fall months, although the summer months can be hot and humid.

Oklahoma City National Memorial

The Oklahoma City National Memorial is a solemn and moving tribute to the victims and survivors of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The Memorial is located in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City and offers visitors a chance to reflect on the tragedy and the resilience of the human spirit.

Visitors to the Oklahoma City memorial can walk around the grounds and explore the numerous memorial elements that make up the site, such as the Reflecting Pool and Gates of Time which mark “9:01” – the time before the bombing, and “9:03” – the time after. The Memorial also includes an outdoor museum, a Field of Empty Chairs paying tribute to each victim, and a Survivor Tree representing endurance in times of tragedy.

The Memorial Museum (paid admission) offers a comprehensive look at the events leading up to and following the bombing, as well as personal stories of the victims and survivors. It is recommended to reserve your tickets and entrance time ahead of time.

The best time to visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial is in the mornings or evenings when it is cooler. The memorial grounds and museum are open year-round. Spring or fall months when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller.

When in the area, visitors should also take the time to explore other attractions in downtown Oklahoma City, such as the Bricktown Entertainment District, which features a range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Midtown also offers a range of restaurants and shops. See our favorite places in this article on things to do in Oklahoma City.

Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

The Trail of Tears National Trail is a historic route that commemorates the Indian Removal Act of 1830. The U.S. Army forcibly removed Native American tribes from their ancestral lands in the United States to Indian Territory, which is now present-day Oklahoma. The trail stretches over 2,200 miles and passes through nine states, including Oklahoma.

Visitors to the Trail of Tears National Trail can experience a range of activities that offer a deeper understanding of this tragic period in American history. The trail includes interpretive centers, historic sites, and museums that highlight the stories and experiences of the Native Americans that were affected by the forced removal.

The Cherokee National History Museum in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, is a must-see destination that offers a range of exhibits, demonstrations, and cultural events that highlight the Cherokee Nation’s rich history and heritage. Additionally, the Five Civilized Tribes Museum in Muskogee, Oklahoma, showcases the art, history, and culture of the Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole tribes.

When in the area, visitors should also take the time to explore Vian, Oklahoma, and Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a great place to experience the beauty of Oklahoma’s natural environment. Vian offers plenty of outdoor activities like fishing and exploring the refuge’s trails.

The best time to visit the area is during spring, summer, or fall when temperatures are milder and fewer people are visiting.

In Conclusion

Each of these national park service sites and national historic landmarks in Oklahoma provides visitors with an insight into the state’s unique history, culture, and traditions. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or making it part of an extended tour, these sites offer an opportunity to gain a greater appreciation for Oklahoma’s rich cultural heritage. With so much to explore, there are many great ways to experience the beauty of Oklahoma.

I would highly recommend a family road trip to Oklahoma to explore the rich history and diverse natural beauty of the state, including its national parks and historic sites. From the Oklahoma City National Memorial to the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, visitors can immerse themselves in the unique stories that make up this region.

Additionally, visitors can explore local towns and attractions near the Oklaoma National Parks like Bricktown and Downtown OKC, Greenleaf State Park and Beavers Bend State Park in the eastern part of the state, Little Sahara State Park in the panhandle, and more. No matter what time of year you plan your visit, a trip to Oklahoma is sure to leave lasting memories.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip to Oklahoma today and discover all the fascinating destinations the state has to offer.

For more road trips ideas near Oklahoma National and State Parks, start here:

• Weekend Getaways in Oklahoma
• Crystal Digging in Oklahoma (Jet, OK)
• Turner Falls Camping (Davis, OK)
• National Action Figure Museum (Pauls Valley, OK)
• Weekend Getaway in Duncan, OK
• Things to do in Sulphur Oklahoma
• Family Activities in OKC

National Park Oklahoma FAQs

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