Are you planning to visit Black Mesa State Park soon?

If you are, then you came to the right place!

In today’s article, I will discuss what to expect before you head to Oklahoma’s red-carpet country.

This secluded State Park boasts some of the darkest nighttime skies in the country. Not only is this place the ultimate place for star gazing, but the wildlife here is phenomenal.

 

Without further ado, Let’s jump into the article.

 

 

For more information on Black Mesa State Park, please check them out at https://www.travelok.com

 

 

Black Mesa State Park: What to Expect Before you Go.

 

 

Expect to see some amazing wildlife.

 

 

When you arrive at this State Park (out in the middle of nowhere), expect to see wildlife in Oklahoma from a whole new perspective.

This place is a birder’s paradise any time of the year. It’s very common to spot Golden Eagles, scaled quail, and black-billed magpies making circles in the sky.

It’s also common to see Black bear, bobcats, bighorn ram, and mule deer roaming around the area too.

If you’re into seeing this kind of wildlife, you’ll begin to realize why you haven’t paid a visit up here sooner.

 

 

Expect to see some dark skies at nighttime.

 

 

Are you into star gazing and milky-way chasing?

Then this will be your State Park from now on.

In addition to being an excellent location for wildlife, Black Mesa boasts some of the darkest nighttime skies in the United States.

As a matter of fact, the dark skies attract and draw many astronomy enthusiasts every year in August for the annual Perseid Meteor shower.

Indeed, this is the best place to see the milky-way galaxy in Oklahoma.

 

 

Expect to see huge Dinosaur Tracks.

 

This secluded State Park is home to famous dinosaur tracks (47 to be exact) that were discovered in the 1980’s. But due to erosion, only one-third of the tracks exist today.

You will want to be sure to check this trail out during the daylight hours due to the tracks being located on private property.

To get there, head east of Kenton, to the Black Mesa Nature Preserve. Then, you will head north inside the preserve and about one-third mile north of the parking lot is a small private road that heads east. Go to the end of the road and you will see a short walking path that leads you to the creek and tracks.

This is a must-see attraction when you are in Oklahoma’s panhandle.

 

 

Expect to Bring Everything You Need.

 

Make sure you bring everything you need.

And I mean everything.

Water, snacks, medicine, and anything you want for your trip. You are going to be 36 miles to the nearest gas station which is located in Boise City.

This is the type of camping trip where you need to make a detailed list. The last thing you want is to have to make the 72-mile round trip just to get the necessities.

The only food options in Boise City are a Dairy Queen and a Subway. I would also recommend getting gas to be on the safe side before you arrive.

Like anything else, a great camping trip requires some detailed planning.

 

Expect Some Great Hiking Trails.

 

Dotted with prairie, juniper, and cactus, this remote region of Oklahoma presents hikers with trails of varying lengths and difficulties.

If you are the adventurous type, you can pack your camper in the summit parking lot near the trailhead in preparation for the eight-and-a-half-mile trek to the top of Black Mesa.

With little to no shade, the summit hike takes three to five hours depending on your skill level. Be sure to watch for poisonous rattlesnakes, especially in the evening.

Aside from a half a mile that is pretty steep, the rest of the trail leading to the flat-topped plateau is relatively flat.

Just be sure to bring plenty of water and your favorite pair of hiking shoes with you.

 

 

 

Thoughts & Takeaways

And there you have it. These are the things to expect when you make the visit to Black Mesa State Park. I absolutely love this state park as it boasts some of the prettiest nighttime skies you will ever see. Like anything else, trips that are remotely located require more planning than others. Please share your experiences about Black Mesa in the comment section below.