Even as the weather continues to oscillate between warm breeze and winter storm, crocuses and daffodils are beginning to bloom throughout the city. They’re a gentle, pastel reminder that spring is, in fact, settling in.
There is no better place to experience this seasonal transition than at Oklahoma’s vast collection of state parks and recreation areas. From swimming in crystal mineral waters to hiking one of the U.S.’s oldest mountain ranges to learning about local flora and fauna in interactive exhibits, natural excursions are abundant in the Sooner State.
And, if a spring trip is not feasible for you, be sure to save this guide for summer rolls around!
Driving 1.5 hours south will bring you to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, a tranquil escape with lush greenery and crystal water. Once known as Platt National Park –– Oklahoma’s first and only national park –– before merging with Arbuckle Recreation Area, Chickasaw National Recreation Area is full of ecological wonders, which are showcased in the interactive exhibits and live amphibians at the Travertine Nature Center. The Lake of the Arbuckles, Veterans Creek, and Rock Creek offer swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities. Want to wait for warmer weather before venturing into the mineral water? Just sitting near it will give you a front-row view of sunbathing turtles.
Looking for a quick getaway from Oklahoma City? Venture a mere 40 minutes to experience Lake Thunderbird State Park. With 20 miles for hiking and mountain biking, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the vast waterfront or experience a moment of serenity surrounded by nature. The Discovery Cove Nature Center provides family-friendly programming, exhibits, and artifacts related to regional flora and fauna –– as well as a gift shop for the souvenir-motivated. For those who’ve already staved off the winter chills, there are plenty of opportunities to swim at the beaches speckling the lake’s coastline. But, remember to pack a picnic so you can feel the spring sun as you sit at their public tables!
Adventurous families will enjoy Red Rock Canyon Campground and Adventure Park, a 1-hour drive west from Oklahoma City. Defined by stunning red rock walls, this spot gives experienced visitors the chance to rock climb and rappel among exhilarating obstacles and breathtaking views. Not ready to scale the walls? Don’t worry, the park also offers a variety of self-guided hiking trails ranging in difficulty, alongside guided excursions for an additional fee. The park’s amenities make it exceptionally family friendly, with a café and swimming pool (featuring a waterslide!) as well as a locally-sourced ice cream shop currently being built. Springtime is the perfect time to visit Red Rock Canyon Campground and Adventure Park for those wanting to beat the summer rush. You might just catch the wildflowers in full bloom!
The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, typically 1-2 hours from Oklahoma City, is home to breathtaking granite mountains and sweeping prairie grass. Known for its roaming bison, a day trip there can be a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Ranger programs and interactive exhibits at the Quanah Parker Nature and Visitor Center provide ample educational entertainment for families and nature lovers alike. With a variety of trails catering to casual, intermediate, and skilled hikers, every visitor can find their niche among the impressive geologic features.
Driving 1.5 hours south will bring you to “Oklahoma’s first and largest state park.” Known for its large and beautiful lake, Lake Murray State Park will excite the metro’s water sport enthusiasts. From swimming to boating to paddle boarding to fishing, the opportunities are endless on the water’s 5,728 surface acres. Perhaps implied by its easy-going name, Sunset Beach is a charming and popular spot for visitors to dip in. The park also houses an impressive 12,500 acres of land surrounding the lake, which are rife with hiking trails and routes for ATVs. The park’s nature center, lodged inside the historic Tucker Tower, provides context to the area’s geological and historical features.
Don’t let the name dissuade you: Robbers Cave State Park is a beautiful, must-see destination in Oklahoma. Located 2-3 hours from Oklahoma City, the park is home to enchanting woods, babbling streams, amazing lakes, staggering sandstone cliffs and, of course, fascinating caves. The park’s nature center provides insight into the interesting tales that have shaped Robbers Cave State Park’s history, including the one behind the park’s ominous name. But, that’s not all. The nature center has a stacked schedule for the spring months, including guided hikes, putt-putt golf, crafts, outdoor classroom events, birding with provided binoculars, and a beloved hayride.
To help plan your spring and summer plans in Oklahoma visit travelok.com.
This article appears in Spring Break Splash.