The Best State Parks to Visit in Oklahoma

While Oklahoma doesn’t have anywhere near the number of official state parks that places like California have (the "Golden State" lays claim to 270 such attractions), it is by no means last on the list (that honor goes to Rhode Island, with just 15). But the collection of over 35 state parks that Oklahoma has is certainly a good one.

Treasured for their diversity, these parks are a great escape for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike, whether traveling as families looking for together-time, couples looking for a little outdoor romance, or solo adventure seekers. These seven best state parks to visit in Oklahoma, each offering its own set of attractions, together provide a fascinating glimpse into what makes the “Sooner State” so special.

Beavers Bend State Park

Located in southeastern Oklahoma in the Ouachita Mountains near Broken Bow, Beavers Bend State Park was established in 1937 and attracts over two million visitors a year. This popular park covers over 1,300 acres along the shores of Broken Bow Lake and the Mountain Fork River and features a lush, forested landscape dotted with towering pine and hardwood trees. Numerous hiking and nature trails meander through the park, including the scenic David Boren Trail with multiple trailheads, making it perfect for those wanting to break it up into shorter hikes.

Enjoy fishing? Beavers Bend is renowned for its clear, trout-filled waters, making it a premier destination for fly fishing. Other fun things to do here include canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while those interested in local history should pop into the Forest Heritage Center with its displays relating to logging and the development of forestry in Oklahoma. Planning on lingering longer? Accommodations include rustic cabins to modern lodges along with well-maintained campgrounds for tents and RVs.

Robbers Cave State Park

Situated in the Sans Bois Mountains of southeastern Oklahoma, Robbers Cave State Park spans 8,200 acres and is named after the famous outlaw Jesse James and his gang, who reportedly used the area as a hideout in the late 19th century. Established in 1935, the park's main attraction is the actual Robbers Cave itself. Accessible via a moderately challenging hike, the cave is a fascinating historical site offering a glimpse into the lives of the outlaws who once roamed (and robbed) the area.

Outdoor activities include hiking and horseback riding, with trails providing stunning vistas of the forests and lakes. Coon Creek Lake and Lake Carlton have excellent fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities, while the park's sandstone cliffs are popular for rock climbing and rappelling adventures. For leaf peepers, the Robbers Cave Fall Festival is a great time to visit and attracts thousands of visitors and over 200 vendors and features live entertainment. Accommodations include cabins, a lodge, and multiple campgrounds, making it easy for visitors to extend their stay and fully explore the park.

Lake Murray State Park

Located in southern Oklahoma near Ardmore and close to the border with Texas (Dallas and Fort Worth are only 100 miles due south), Lake Murray State Park is the state's oldest and largest park. Established in 1933, this 12,500-acre natural attraction is centered around beautiful Lake Murray, a 5,700-acre reservoir. A must-visit here is Tucker Tower, a former summer retreat for Oklahoma's governors that today serves as a nature center and museum.

Afterwards, put on those hiking shoes and hit the Anadarche Trail, a popular nearly seven-mile route featuring forest and lakeshore scenery. In addition to swimming and paddleboarding, the lake is stocked with bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a favorite spot for anglers. It also has a marina with slips and boat rentals, as well as extensive camping facilities including RV and tent sites, and even rustic cabins. Don’t want to rough it? Lake Murray Lodge has 32 comfortable accommodations with modern amenities, and the park's 18-hole golf course is close by.

Natural Falls State Park

Visitors will find Natural Falls State Park in the Ozark Highlands of northeastern Oklahoma near the state border with Arkansas. Only opened in 1997, the star attraction at this 120-acre site is its stunning 77-foot waterfall which cascades into a beautiful fern-covered basin. Known locally as Dripping Springs, it was famously featured in the 1974 film, Where the Red Fern Grows. Superb views can be enjoyed from the observation platform at the top, while more adventurous visitors can hike down to the base for a closer look (have your camera ready for a memorable selfie).

Several other hiking trails can be explored, one of the best being the Red Fern Rim Trail, a loop around the park with a few different views of the falls. Picnic areas, a butterfly garden, and a small lake for fishing add to the park's appeal, while those looking to extend their visit can rent one of the park's yurts, pitch a tent, or park the RV.

Alabaster Caverns State Park

Established in 1956, Alabaster Caverns State Park is home to one of the world's largest gypsum caves that’s open to the public. This unique 200-acre wonder is home to the spectacular Alabaster Cavern, a 3/4-mile-long cave formed from alabaster, a rare form of gypsum. Fascinating guided tours of the cave provide insights into its geological formations and history, as well as the various species of bats that inhabit it.

A dedicated bat observation area is also available, allowing visitors to watch these fascinating nocturnal creatures emerge from the cave at dusk. Other fun things to do here include hiking and picnics, as well as staying a night or two at one of the park’s camping or RV sites.

Roman Nose State Park

One of seven original state parks dating from 1937, Roman Nose State Park is situated in the scenic gypsum hills of northwestern Oklahoma and covers over 6,000 acres. Named after Cheyenne Chief Henry Roman Nose, this picturesque park features several springs, lakes, and canyons that together add up to a diverse landscape that is ripe for exploration.

It also boasts several resort-like amenities including a scenic golf course and a swimming pool, both built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The same group also constructed the park’s cabins and historic lodge. In addition to its excellent trail network, other outdoor activities include fishing, boating, and swimming. RV and camping spaces are also available.

Gloss Mountain State Park

Located in the heart of the Oklahoma panhandle near Fairview, Gloss Mountain State Park is known for its striking red mesas and buttes that create a dramatic and unique landscape. The main attraction at this 640-acre site is Cathedral Mountain, a 1,570-foot peak that can be accessed via a steep but rewarding hike. The trail to the top includes metal stairs and handrails to aid in the ascent, and while hard work, the panoramic summit vistas of the surrounding plains and mesas are worth it.

The park is also home to a variety of native Oklahoma wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes, and a range of bird species. Picnic areas are available for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery, and the park's relatively remote location provides a sense of tranquility and solitude. While there are no formal camping facilities, nearby campgrounds and accommodations are available.

The Final Word

While it doesn’t boast the volume of state parks that some US states possess, those Oklahoma does have are certainly worth visiting. With their diversity of pretty landscapes and outdoor activities, they are ideal destinations for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation, not to mention a chance to reconnect with nature. From the historical intrigue of Robbers Cave State Park to the watery beauty of Natural Falls State Park, each of these great state parks to visit in Oklahoma provide ample opportunities to explore the country’s must-see natural treasures.