What is there to do in Oklahoma you might ask?
The fact of the matter is that the Sooner State is full of incredible playgrounds. In fact, there’s so much to do in Oklahoma that it motivated me to write this article and give you 7 epic day trips you can take this fall.
You won’t have to travel far from home to find these day trips filled with adventure, fun, and relaxation. Pack some snacks and be ready to make some memories!
Without further ado, Let’s hit the road!
7 Epic Day Trips You Can Take in Oklahoma This Fall
#1. The Chickasaw National Recreation Area
As far as day trips are concerned, the Chickasaw National Recreation Area is one of my favorites. The park is beautifully located in the heart of the Arbuckle mountains and has many refreshing watering holes nearby.
The area has 6 public campgrounds offering over 400 campsites. If you’re a fan of nature, then you’re going to love this place.
From springs and mountains to tons of wildlife, this place has something for everyone.
For more information on Chickasaw National, please visit them at https://www.nps.gov
#2. Medicine Park
If you’re on the fence about visiting Medicine Park, you shouldn’t be.
This is one destination in Oklahoma that makes up the ideal day trip. The original cobblestone community is dotted with taverns, ice cream parlors, and has incredible views of the Wichita Mountains.
I recently paid a visit to Medicine Park, and to be honest, we ran out of time for things to do. We had a delicious brunch at Chad’s El Sabores and spent the next couple of hours at the Medicine Park Aquarium.
The aquarium was awesome! I probably should’ve waited for it to have cooled off some because the outdoor area that has alligators and western diamond back rattlesnakes on display, we were working up a sweat in that Oklahoma humidity!
All in all, this was a fun trip for the books.
#3. Salt Plains State Park
Doesn’t ever make you wonder how diverse Oklahoma’s terrain is?
There is one particular State Park that is definitely worthy of a day trip.
Salt Plains State Park.
This is one of Oklahoma’s most unique landscapes. The refuge is comprised of salt leftover from an ocean that once covered Oklahoma in prehistoric times, and the saltwater lake in the park, is about half as salty as the ocean.
Oklahoma is the only place in the world where the hourglass-shaped selenite crystal can be found. If you want to stay longer, then you are in luck; they have 6 spectacular cabins to choose from.
#4. Little Sahara State Park
Speaking of diverse terrain. Little Sahara State Park in the tiny town of Waynoka boasts over 1,600 acres of sand dunes, ranging in height from 25 to 75 feet!
What better way to spend a Saturday or Sunday afternoon tooling around in an ATV or dune buggy?
As a matter of fact, this is one of the best places in the entire Midwest for these kinds of vehicles. The cost is $10 per day for all drivers and passengers to get on the sand.
Just make sure you check out the regulations and park rules before you depart on your trip. For the latest updates, please check out travel Oklahoma at https://www.travelok.com
#5. Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park
As far as best places to see a great Oklahoma sunset, Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park is worth mentioning.
A prime example of nature’s artwork in Hinton, Oklahoma is on full display.
Red Rock Canyon is known for incredible sunsets and fabulous hiking trails. One hiking trail I recommend is the Red Rock Canyon Rim Trail. This is about a 4-mile hike that takes about an hour and a half to complete but the views are well worth it. Just bring your favorite hiking shoes.
#6. Natural Falls State Park
Located near the Arkansas State line in the Scenic Ozark region of Northeast Oklahoma is the State’s largest waterfall.
The stunning 77-foot behemoth offers visitors a chance to get a glimpse of one of the most scenic wonders in the state.
If you are looking for a longer stay, then you are in luck; Natural Falls State Park has yurts, which can be reserved online.
Indeed, this is one of the best day trips you can take in Oklahoma.
#7. Osage Hills State Park
Located just west of Bartlesville in the heart of the Osage Nation in Northeast Oklahoma, is a prime example of Oklahoma’s natural beauty.
With lush forests, rocky bluffs and serene waters, the park boasts 1,100 acres of scenery. This is one of the best places in the state for fall foliage.
A visit out here in late October and early November will allow you to get to experience the transformation from green to vivid shades of yellow, orange, and red.
The trails are challenging enough to keep you coming back and the wildlife is just as good.
On your way out, I highly recommend bringing your appetite and stopping by the Pioneer Woman Mercantile. This place will be your one-stop shop for any Oklahoma souvenirs and savory comfort food.
Thoughts & Takeaways
And there you have it; these are 7 epic day trips you can take with your friends and family in Oklahoma this fall. There are many places to choose from, but these are some of my favorite places to visit for the day. Please share your favorite day trips in the sooner state in the comment section below.
-CT