Play Video

Outdoor Recreation Areas

With 12 distinct ecoregions holding wonders like towering mesas and plateaus, serene swimming beaches, peaceful prairies and towering forests that stretch for miles, the variety of beauty in Oklahoma is awe-inspiring. It’s a state where you can canoe leisurely through calm waters on the Illinois River or Lower Mountain Fork River or embark on a strenuous climb up steep canyon walls at Red Rock Canyon or Robbers Cave State Park. Go bird watching at one of the state’s many refuges like the Hackberry Flats Wildlife Management Area or watch a massive herd of bison stampede through native grasses at the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve.

Hikers will find a multitude of hiking trails from leisurely strolls through paved nature trails to extreme boulder-hopping at Charon’s Garden Trail within the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton. Mountain biking is also a favorite pastime at the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area in Tulsa and many of Oklahoma’s 35 state parks.

Whatever outdoor escape you’re seeking, it’s waiting for you in Oklahoma. Order our free Outdoor Recreation Guide to learn more about the incredible outdoor offerings in the state then travel to Oklahoma to experience for yourself the serenity, beauty and adventure the state has to offer.

Listings

NATURE &
OUTDOORS

337listings

CAMPGROUNDS

146listings

ATTRACTIONS

64listings

Lakeside Getaways in Red Carpet Country

Water may be in shorter supply in northwestern Oklahoma’s Red Carpet Country, but there are still plenty of amazing places to take a swim, cast your line or take out the boat in this geographically distinct area. Characterized by majestic mesas and wide swaths of shortgrass prairie, Red Carpet Country is home to some of the most unique lakes in Oklahoma. We covered Kaw Lake in Ponca City in our overview of the state's major lakes, so now read all about these high-plains oases and make plans to visit this one-of-a-kind region today.

Learn More

Lakeside Getaways in Great Plains Country

Wide open spaces and boulder-strewn mountains make Great Plains Country in southwestern Oklahoma one of the most awe-inspiring regions of the state. The area is also home to a number of fantastic lakes where you can enjoy water sports, swimming, boating, fishing and more. We profiled Lake Altus-Lugert in our "Big Six" overview of Oklahoma lakes, but take a look at some of the top lakes in southwestern Oklahoma and come see what makes this part of the state a can’t-miss destination for outdoors enthusiasts.

Learn More

Ten Most Beautiful Places in Oklahoma

Explore these natural beauties and discover the diversity of Oklahoma's gorgeous scenery and inspirational places. Admire a beautiful waterfall, trek along a scenic byway overlooking forested hills or hike among ancient mountains - and that's just the beginning.

Learn More

Illinois River Float Trips and Camping

The Illinois River in Tahlequah offers a gentle, moderate current and plenty of canoe, kayak and raft outfitters along its scenic banks, making it a favorite float trip destination.

Learn More

Oklahoma Outdoor Adventures

Whether you’re looking for an activity that will get your adrenaline pumping or simply seeking a quiet escape into nature, you’ll find it in Oklahoma. Check out these great adventure hot spots with ready-made trip ideas.

Learn More

Ten Prime Picnic Spots in Oklahoma

Planning the perfect picnic in Oklahoma has never been easier. Grab a blanket, pack a basket, gather family and friends and discover some of our favorite Oklahoma picnic spots.

Learn More

Riversport Adventure Park at Lake Overholser Video

Deep Fork National Wildlife Refuge Video

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge & Visitor's Center Video

Hugo Lake Park & Frisco Railroad Depot Video

Red Slough Wildlife Management Area Video

Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge Mammals Video

Lake Murray Tour with Sherri Coale Video

Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area Video

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Hiking Video

Great Plains State Park Mountain Biking Video

Alabaster Caverns & Selman Bat Cave Video

Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge Video

Lake Eufaula State Park's Spring Dogwoods

Lake Elmer Thomas Recreational Area Video

Cool Off at Lake Wister State Park Video

Chickasaw National Recreation Area Video

Wichita Mountains Photography with Kim Baker

Kayaking and Rowing on the Oklahoma River Video

Hike through beautiful Chickasaw National Recreation Area trails in Sulphur when leaves take on stunning autumn tones.

Walk the Heart Healthy Trail at Roman Nose State Park in Watonga.

Enjoy scenic views and outdoor recreation at Lake Elmer Thomas in Fort Sill.

Embark on a First Day Hike at the Bernice Area at Grand Lake State Park to start the New Year off on the right foot.

Bring the whole family to the Martin Park Nature Center & Trail in Oklahoma City for a brisk winter stroll.

See if you can spot turkey roaming the Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur.

Visit Turner Falls Park in the heart of fall.

The scenic Tenkiller State Park landscape gets a color boost each autumn.

Take in scenic views of the Wichita Mountains from Medicine Park.

Tulips line up under the trees in Honor Heights Park in Muskogee where the annual Azalea Festival takes place.

A tenacious tree clings to boulders atop Mount Scott in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge as the sunset paints the evening sky.

Fog envelops the Wichita Mountains on a cold winter morning.

A winter weather creates a frozen beauty at Turner Falls in Davis.

This peaceful scene entices hikers to pause for a moment and soak in the gorgeous fall scenery at the Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur.

Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park in Hinton offers wonderful camping and hiking opportunities.

Dramatic rock formations can be found in the area surrounding Black Mesa State Park in northwest Oklahoma.

A stately 8-point whitetail buck roams the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton. In addition to deer, the refuge is home to free-ranging elk, bison and longhorn cattle herds along with a wide variety of other bird and wildlife species.

Robbers Cave State Park near Wilburton offers scenic campgrounds and family friendly outdoor activities.

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is a must-see in southwest Oklahoma. With more than 59,000 acres of wilderness, you'll find miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging as well as rock climbing, wildlife watching and more.

See Oklahoma's state animal, the American bison, in all its glory at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

A hiker surveys the landscape at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in southwest Oklahoma.

Enjoy tranquil and pristine scenes like this by kayak at Cedar Lake National Recreation Area where visitors can camp, hike, fish and paddle.

A beautiful sunset casts a pink glow over Sardis Lake in southeast Oklahoma.

Several canoe outfitters along the Mountain Fork River will help you enjoy a paddling adventure in and around Beavers Bend State Park in southeast Oklahoma where you'll experience magnificent views like this one.

Oklahoma's uncrowded lakes offer plenty of serenity in addition to great fishing, boating and paddling opportunities.

An exceptional sunrise streaks the skies with color that reflects on the still surface of Lake Eufaula creating a magical moment.

Bluestem Falls in Pawhuska is a breathtaking feature created by the Lake Bluestem Spillway.

A Black-tailed Prairie Dog at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Prairie dog colonies are one of the many wildlife attractions at the refuge.

American Bison roam the spectacular Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in Pawhuska freely. Spotting a buffalo herd is a highlight of any visit to the preserve.

Tucked away next to hiking trails, the rivers of the McGee Creek Natural Scenic Recreation Area Trail System in Atoka are one of the area's prettiest features.

The view from the top of Mount Scott in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is definitely worth the climb or the drive. A road winds around the mountain right to a parking lot at the summit.

In the fall, the leaves turn bright red and yellow adding extra beauty to Heavener Runestone Park.

The spillway from Lake Bluestem creates wonderful cascades in Pawhuska.

Jet skiing and other water sports are popular pastimes at Grand Lake in northeast Oklahoma.

Reflections of the setting sun gleam across the waters of the Lake of the Arbuckles in Sulphur.

Picturesque Quanah Parker Lake is one of the jewels you can discover at Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

A squirrel ventures out into an enchanting winter playground in the falling snow at Little River Park in Moore.

Fly fishermen and hikers both find beautiful surroundings at Beaver Lodge Trail in Beavers Bend State Park.

Mist enshrouds the hills of Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow creating spectacular scenery on a fall day.

This beautiful collared lizard, also known as the Mountain Boomer, was photographed in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton. It is recognized as the Oklahoma State Reptile.

Canoeing is a popular activity on Lake Carlton at Robbers Cave State Park. Canoe and paddleboat rentals are available at the lake to help guests enjoy the area.

Mount Scott, located in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is a great destination for family fun. Visitors can drive to the top of Mount Scott, park their car and get out for an afternoon of boulder hopping, hiking and great views.

This Common Collard Lizard, also known as Mountain Boomer, was photographed near Lost Lake in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

Oklahoma camping trips build lasting family memories. Get the whole family outdoors and enjoy Oklahoma's state parks, lakes, forests and outdoor recreation areas.

Cypress trees displaying fall foliage brighten the Mountain Fork River at Beavers Bend State Park.

A colorful winter sunset from atop Mt. Scott in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

This cow bison is part of the buffalo herds that roam freely in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

River mist and cypress trees create a serene morning scene at Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow.

Clear, swiftly flowing waters of the Lower Mountain Fork River and colorful fall foliage create a perfect setting for outdoor adventures at Mountain Fork Park in Broken Bow.

Mist rises from the river on a cool fall morning at Mountain Fork Park in Broken Bow.

A gorgeous early morning view at Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow.

Two Whitetail does spotted crossing the road at Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow.

The Mountain Fork River flows over a rocks along the Beaver Lodge Trail at Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow.

Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur features spring-fed waters rippling over small waterfalls in the creeks that run through the park.

Enjoy a tranquil morning as you watch the sun rise over the valley from a bench just outside the Robbers Cave Lodge in Wilburton.

A mature American Bison bull in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton. The refuge is home to free ranging buffalo herds as well as elk and longhorn cattle.

This colorful male Collared Lizard was spotted in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton. The Collared Lizard, also known as the Mountain Boomer, is the state reptile of Oklahoma.

Sunset over Veterans Lake at Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur.

A Collared lizard, also known as a Mountain Boomer, in his lair beneath a red granite boulder in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Lawton. The Mountain Boomer is the state reptile of Oklahoma.

Meander along this path through the wooded area that surrounds Quanah Parker Lake at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

An elk takes an afternoon rest among the tall grass of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

This whitetail buck with his antlers in velvet lives in the Wichita Mountains of southwestern Oklahoma.

Bunny Creek at Lake Eufaula is a peaceful spot for fishing or just relaxing with a beautiful view.

A colorful and scenic sunset over Veterans Lake in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur.

Wildflowers in full bloom at the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge create a tapestry of bright colors for hikers to enjoy.

The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve near Pawhuska is the largest protected area of tallgrass on Earth, spanning 39,000 acres.

Rock climbing is popular in several spots across Oklahoma including the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

The setting sun casts a golden glow over Hugo Lake Park as seen from the resort cabin area.

A prairie dog stretches out in the sun at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. A large colony of prairie dogs inhabits the refuge along with buffalo, elk, longhorn cattle and many other species of wildlife.

This herd of American bison, otherwise known as buffalo, creates a majestic scene against the Wichita Mountains at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Lawton.

The resort cabins at Hugo Lake Park offer magnificent views of the lake and luxurious accommodations.

The beautiful spring green of the hillsides reflects on the calm waters of Little River in Honobia.

A pair of young prairie dog pups cautiously survey their surroundings at the prairie dog village in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

Wildflowers on the shores of Lake Texoma.

Bison crowd the roadside as they graze at the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve near Pawhuska.

A magnificent sunset accentuates the rugged beauty of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton. This outdoor recreation area features outstanding hiking opportunities as well as rock climbing, wildlife viewing and camping.

A stormy afternoon at Lake Eufaula provides enchanting lighting for this scenic spot.

Lake Altus-Lugert's scenic beauty draws boating enthusiasts as well as hikers. Hike through the granite peaks that surround the lake, or take to the water for boating.

Guests can usually view one or more small bison herds at the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in Pawhuska.

Oklahoma is known for big skies with fantastic sunrises and sunsets. These beautiful morning rays attest to the fact that the reputation is well deserved.

The Mountain Fork River in Beavers Bend State Park offers incredible scenery like this area where the water cascades over the rocky river bottom. Several canoe outfitters offer rentals and float trips on the Mountain Fork River.

The Charon's Garden area of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton features fascinating rock formations and secluded scenic spots for hikers and boulder hoppers to enjoy.

This lovely trail at Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park in Hinton draws hikers who enjoy the beauty of the scenic red sandstone canyon walls and surrounding lush vegetation.

The rosy hues of sunset make Arcadia Lake glow as the day fades away. Arcadia Lake in Edmond offers swimming beaches, boating and water recreation, hiking, camping and mountain biking trails.

A winter sunset paints the skies with fiery hues above the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

A beautiful winter sunrise over Grand Lake begins a new day at the Pine Lodge Resort in Ketchum.

A gorgeous autumn day at Mountain Fork Park in Broken Bow. Mountain Fork Park offers campgrounds, fishing and a scenic stretch of the Lower Mountain Fork River with rapids and small waterfalls that are popular with kayakers.

Stunning colors brighten the sky during a winter sunset over Mount Scott in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton. Visitors can take a scenic drive right to the top of Mount Scott for panoramic vistas.

A whitetail buck slips through the brush at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

A magnificent sunset bathes the Oklahoma landscape in fiery colors as seen from atop Mount Scott in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

A majestic bald eagle perches at Grand Lake in northeastern Oklahoma. Many eagles make their winter homes near lakes and rivers in Oklahoma and visitors can join eagle watch events around the state during the winter months.

A Roseate spoonbill takes flight from the water at Red Slough Wildlife Management Area near Idabel in southeast Oklahoma.

American Beautyberries are frequently spotted by hikers along trails throughout the eastern half of Oklahoma.

A stunning sunset creates a picture perfect evening on the shoreline of Lake Eufaula.

A majestic butte rises above the plains at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Lawton.

The serpentine Mountain Fork River snakes through Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow with areas of rippling rapids running through heavily wooded landscapes that show off stunning foliage each autumn.

A family of Black-tailed prairie dogs peer out from the prairie dog village at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

A cow buffalo grazes at the Wichita Mountains National Refuge in Lawton. Free-ranging buffalo herds can usually be seen by visitors throughout the park from the road.

Miles of trails on the shores of the Oklahoma River in downtown Oklahoma City draw all sorts of cyclists, from serious athletes in training to families who just want to soak up the vibe and the fresh air along this scenic spot.

Fishing is a popular activity within Spavinaw Area at Grand Lake State Park in northeastern Oklahoma.

Outdoor Recreation Areas

Listings

A special thanks to our advertisers

Related Articles