Here are some of the best little-known places to visit in Oklahoma that’ll make you see the Sooner State in a whole new light.

As an Amazon associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. There may be some other affiliate links also, which also won’t cost you a thing.  Thanks for your support.

 Ouachita National Forest – Oklahoma & Arkansas Border

Stretching across 1.8 million acres, the Ouachita National Forest spans both Oklahoma and Arkansas, offering breathtaking drives, mountain views, and serene hiking trails. The scenic 54-mile Talimena National Scenic Byway winds through maple, oak, and hickory forests that glow red and gold in the fall.

Stop at one or all of the 22 viewpoints to soak in sweeping vistas, including a panoramic spot where you can see three states at once. Keep an eye out for deer, black bears, and more than 100 species of birds that call this forest home. Don’t forget your camera!

 Turner Falls Park – Davis, Oklahoma

Home to Oklahoma’s largest waterfall, Turner Falls is a must-see hidden gem. The 77-foot cascade pours into a blue-green natural pool surrounded by 350-million-year-old limestone cliffs. Explore caves, hike scenic trails, or take a refreshing dip in the spring-fed creek that runs through the park.

Turner Falls Park spans 1,500 acres and offers unique overnight stays, from furnished teepees and bunkhouses to covered wagons with king beds. It’s one of the most picturesque and fun-filled destinations in southern Oklahoma. If you have kids, what fun it would be for them to sleep in a teepee or stagecoach. We hope to make it here soon.

 Salt Plains State Park – Jet, Oklahoma

The Salt Plains cover more than 12,000 acres of shimmering white flats that look like snow under the sun. This otherworldly landscape sits within the Great Salt Plains Wildlife Refuge and is famous for its rare hourglass-shaped crystals, found nowhere else on Earth.

From April to October, visitors can dig for these unique crystals. You can also enjoy hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, and camping, with six cozy cabins available. It’s one of the most unusual natural wonders in Oklahoma. If you’re going to dig for crystals, you’ll need your own equipment.

 Gloss Mountains State Park -Fairview, Oklahoma

The Gloss Mountains, or “Glass Mountains,” shimmer under the sunlight thanks to their selenium-rich red rock that sparkles with minerals. Hike up Cathedral Mountain for breathtaking views of the prairies below, especially at sunrise or sunset when the cliffs seem to glow.

While there’s no camping inside the park, you’ll find picnic areas and rest spots perfect for a day trip to this scenic geological gem. Be sure to bring lots of water and sunscreen. This portable water bottle is great to hook on your backpack or belt ring. They also collapse when not in use. FYI, the two pack is a better deal than a single bottle.

 Natural Falls State Park – West Siloam Springs, Oklahoma

Nestled in the Ozark Highlands, Natural Falls State Park features the stunning Dripping Springs Falls, a 77-foot cascade surrounded by lush greenery. A short one-mile trail loop takes you across bridges and boardwalks with spectacular views of the waterfall and foliage below.

Visit in winter to see parts of the waterfall freeze into dazzling ice formations. It’s one of the most photogenic hidden waterfalls in Oklahoma.

 Black Mesa State Park – Near Boise City, Oklahoma

At 4,973 feet, Black Mesa is Oklahoma’s highest point. This rugged landscape of volcanic rock and desert terrain feels worlds away from the plains. From the summit, you can see across Oklahoma, Colorado, and New Mexico.

The park’s remote location makes it one of the best stargazing spots in the U.S. Visitors can also hike, fish, kayak, and camp under brilliant night skies. If you’re looking for some great night vision goggles with a camera, these work well for personal use at a moderate price.

 Alabaster Caverns State Park -Freedom, Oklahoma

Home to one of the largest gypsum caves in the world, Alabaster Caverns features striking black and white alabaster walls formed over millions of years. Take a guided tour through the cool underground passage or, for thrill-seekers, try wild caving in one of four open spelunking caves.

Above ground, you’ll find scenic trails, RV hookups, and camping areas surrounded by Oklahoma’s western beauty. Be sure to bring a jacket, it can get cool in the caves.

 Chickasaw National Recreation Area -Sulphur, Oklahoma

Known as the “Oasis of Oklahoma,” this area blends mineral springs, streams, and lakes with shaded hiking trails and swimming holes. Popular spots include Little Niagara Falls and Lake of the Arbuckles, perfect for boating, fishing, or cooling off in the summer heat.

Camping, hiking, and wildlife watching make Chickasaw a relaxing and rejuvenating escape.

 Robbers Cave State Park – Wilburton, Oklahoma

Tucked into the Sans Bois Mountains, Robbers Cave once sheltered outlaws like Jesse James. Today, it’s a family-friendly adventure spot with caves to explore, lakes for fishing, and cliffs for rock climbing and rappelling.

Stay overnight in a yurt, covered wagon, or the park’s cozy lodge. With equestrian trails, ATV areas, and tranquil campgrounds, it’s one of Oklahoma’s most diverse outdoor parks.

 Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge – Cache, Oklahoma

Rising from the prairie, the Wichita Mountains are home to free-roaming bison, elk, and longhorn cattle. Hike or drive-up Mount Scott for panoramic views, or visit the mysterious Parallel Forest, where thousands of trees were planted exactly ten feet apart.

This area is a photographer’s paradise and a must-visit for anyone craving wide-open wilderness. Activities here include fishing, bird watching, hiking, camping, and kayaking. This is a birder’s paradise.

Lake Tenkiller & Tenkiller State Park – Vian, Oklahoma

Lake Tenkiller is Oklahoma’s clearest lake, offering 130 miles of shoreline and crystal-blue waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, and diving. Scuba enthusiasts can explore a sunken town and underwater rock formations.

The park has RV sites, cabins, and plenty of family-friendly amenities like picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a seasonal water park with slides and splash pads.

 Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park -Hinton, Oklahoma

With its bright red sandstone walls and traces of pioneer wagon ruts, Red Rock Canyon is one of Oklahoma’s most scenic natural playgrounds. You’ll find 12 miles of hiking trails, areas for rappelling, and several camping options.

It’s a favorite for both outdoor adventurers and history lovers alike.

 Greenleaf State Park – Braggs, Oklahoma

Centered around a peaceful lake, Greenleaf State Park offers fishing, hiking, and family-friendly camping in the eastern forest. Rock outcrops overlook the lake and surrounding hills, and a special kids’ fishing pond sits among shady willow trees.

Motorized watercraft aren’t allowed, so it stays quiet and perfect for a peaceful getaway.

 McGee Creek State Park – Antlers, Oklahoma

McGee Creek is one of Oklahoma’s most secluded wilderness parks, covering 25,000 acres of thick forest, steep hills, and crystal-clear streams. Hike or horseback ride through rugged terrain, fish for bass, or simply unwind under the canopy of ancient trees.

It’s ideal for travelers seeking solitude and off-the-grid adventure. You’ll find plenty of camping options here. If you love being outdoors, plan to spend a couple of days here exploring.

Roman Nose State Park- Watonga, Oklahoma

The Roman Nose State Park takes its name from a Cheyenne chief and is an original Oklahoma State Park. Within the park, which is situated inside a stunning canyon, there are hiking trails, an 18-hole golf course and some beautiful places to stay including a 22-room lodge built in 1956.

 Final Thoughts: Oklahoma’s Best-Kept Secrets

Oklahoma is full of surprises, from glittering salt flats and waterfalls to ancient caves and mountain peaks. Whether you love hiking, camping, or chasing unique landscapes, these hidden gems in Oklahoma prove the Sooner State is anything but boring.

Next time you plan a road trip, skip the usual stops and dive deep into Oklahoma’s wild, wonderful, and amazingly underrated corners. We want to share information and tips we learn along the way to help you plan your vacation. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.

The post Hidden Gems in Oklahoma: Must-Visit Little-Known Places Across the Sooner State appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

This post includes some affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, we will receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support.

How to Find the Best Vacation for You: A Personalized Guide to Your Perfect Getaway

Step 1: Consider Your Travel Style

Before you start browsing for vacation spots, it’s important to think about what kind of traveler you are. Everyone has a different travel style, and recognizing yours will help narrow down your options. By using these guidelines, it will help planning seem less overwhelming.

Adventure Lover: Do you crave outdoor activities like hiking, scuba diving, or zip-lining? If you love adrenaline-pumping experiences, look for destinations that offer natural beauty and plenty of outdoor adventures. Look for areas that have both activities and possibly National or State parks.

Relaxation Seeker: If your idea of a vacation involves lounging by the pool with a cocktail or spending hours at a spa, then a tropical resort or a quiet beach town might be your ideal getaway. You might even consider a cruise where you can lounge at the pool but also tour different ports.

Culture Enthusiast: Do you enjoy exploring museums, historic landmarks, or local markets? If you’re curious about history and culture, look for cities rich in culture, with lots of museums, art, and traditions to discover. Maybe choose an area and go to a few places there, for example Parks where you can hike in Utah and hit the mighty 5 which is Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion. Or maybe go to the Boston area and learn about the Witch Trials. You get the idea.

Family Vacationer: If you’re traveling with family, especially kids, consider destinations that offer family-friendly activities like theme parks, wildlife experiences, or all-inclusive resorts with entertainment for all ages. There are quite a few states that you can find amusement parks that are relatively close, and you could make it an all amusement park adventure.

Step 2: Define Your Vacation Goals

What do you want out of this trip? Defining your vacation goals will help you focus your search on the perfect destination.

Relaxation: If your goal is to unwind and recharge, look for destinations known for wellness retreats, quiet beaches, or peaceful countryside escapes. Look for places that have spas but also have places to find quiet places to just unwind.

Adventure: If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, opt for places that offer extreme sports, mountains to hike, or oceans to dive. Try to aim for a place that you know you will enjoy. Unless you enjoy trying new things and know you’ll have fun no matter what, I would choose places you know you will enjoy even if you end up not liking the activity. For example, if you love the beach then find somewhere that has not only diving but other water sports so that you’re sure to find one you enjoy.

Cultural Exploration: If learning about different cultures and traditions is your priority, choose destinations known for their rich heritage, vibrant cities, and unique culinary scenes. There are so many places with rich history so to narrow it down think about what really interests you. Do you want to learn about how wine is made? Go to California Wine country. Do you want to learn about Native American history then head to the southwest or Midwest where there is lots of history.

Nature and Wildlife: If you’re a nature lover, national parks, safaris, or eco-friendly destinations may suit you best. Any of the national parks would be a great place for you and some are close enough together that you can fit two or three into one trip. You can also pick a state and find both the national and state parks and visit a few of them. If you think a safari would be fun, but can’t go to Africa, check some of the zoos or wildlife parks. Some do offer safari tours.

Step 3: Set Your Budget

Your budget will play a significant role in determining where you go and what kind of experience you have. Here’s how to plan a vacation based on your financial expectations:

Luxury Getaways: If budget is not a concern, consider luxurious destinations like private islands, 5-star resorts, or European cities with high-end accommodations. You still need to make sure that the place you pick has the amenities you are looking for. You could choose a trip to an island, for example with an all-inclusive resort but that’s all there is on the island. Or you really want somewhere to get pampered with a spa and pool, etc. and the place you pick is geared towards great restaurants but no spa.

Mid-Range Trips: For travelers looking for a balance between comfort and affordability, there are plenty of mid-range destinations that offer great experiences without breaking the bank. Consider places with affordable hotels and free activities like national parks or historical cities. Check for offers from the hotel like free breakfast or coupons for attractions around the city.

Budget-Friendly Travel: If you’re traveling on a tight budget, look for destinations where your dollar stretches further. Backpacker-friendly countries, budget airlines, and hostels are excellent options to keep costs down while enjoying an amazing trip. If you enjoy camping, then a lot of state and national parks don’t charge extra for camping and by cooking your own food you can save a lot.

If money is a consideration for you, consider what you are going to do while on vacation. If you’re planning a trip to visit amusement parks say, take into consideration how much it will cost to get into each park. If you plan on eating out a lot while you’re on vacation, take that into consideration and maybe get a less expensive hotel. Just remember to consider what all your costs will be so you know what will fit your budget.

Step 4: Choose the Right Time to Travel

The timing of your vacation can have a huge impact on both your experience and your wallet. Research the best times to visit your chosen destination in terms of weather, crowds, and affordability.

High Season: Peak travel seasons (holidays, summer vacations) typically mean higher prices and larger crowds. However, you’ll also experience the best weather and full access to attractions.

Off-Season: Traveling during off-peak times can save you money and allow you to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. Just be sure to check the weather conditions and any limitations on activities during these periods.

Shoulder Season: The shoulder season, just before or after the high season, often strikes a balance between good weather and fewer crowds, with slightly lower prices.

There are quite a few places that going off season can be more enjoyable than during summer. There are a lot of parts of the southwest that stay comfortably warm (not below 40 degrees) in winter, which makes it a great time to enjoy the outdoors. Winter in Florida is the reason they have snowbirds. If you can go in the off season for your vacation, you will probably be able to get better prices on everything and enjoy having less people around. If you can hit that shoulder season just right, that might be the best choice for you.

Step 5: Consider Travel Logistics

How much time do you have, and how far are you willing to travel? These factors can help you choose between destinations closer to home or more distant locations. It may also help you decide if you want to fly somewhere or take a road trip.

Short Vacations: If you only have a few days, consider destinations within a few hours by plane or even a road trip to avoid spending too much time in transit. If you can find a short flight to somewhere closer to you, then flying may be a better option. But if your destination is only a few hours away by plane but you can’t get a direct flight, then maybe you should consider driving to a closer destination.

Longer Vacations: If you have more time to spare, you can venture farther and perhaps visit more than one destination in a single trip, like traveling through multiple cities in Europe or exploring different islands in the Caribbean. Maybe a road trip is more your style. If you have a longer period of time, you can do side trips to the little towns on your way to your destination. We’ve found some really great places doing this.

Step 6: Get Inspiration from Online Tools and Resources

There are tons of tools available to help you find your perfect vacation based on your preferences.

Travel Websites: Use travel comparison websites like Expedia, Kayak, or Google Flights to compare prices on flights, hotels, and vacation packages.

Travel Blogs: Explore travel blogs to read first-hand experiences of different destinations. You’ll find tips and insights you won’t get from a travel brochure.

Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are great for finding inspiration. Use hashtags to discover beautiful travel destinations that match your style and goals.

Step 7: Book Your Dream Vacation

Once you’ve narrowed down your destination options and done your research, it’s time to make your plans official. Start by booking your accommodations and transportation, and then create an itinerary that includes all the activities and experiences that excite you. Look into a travel planner that has a place for packing lists, a place to list places and things you want to do, etc.

Conclusion

Finding the best vacation for you is all about personalizing your trip to fit your unique travel style, goals, and budget. By taking the time to reflect on what you truly want from your vacation, you can ensure a memorable, enjoyable, and stress-free experience. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, there’s a perfect destination out there just waiting for you to discover.  We hope to help you find your adventure and have fun! Don’t be afraid to try something new, just make sure it is something that interests you so that you enjoy your vacation. Check out some of our adventures here.

The post A Personalized Guide to find your Best Vacation appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

This post includes some affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, we will receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support.

History of Ponca City

Ponca City was named after the Ponca tribe that was given this land during the resettlement of tribes. The land was picked for close proximity to the Arkansas River. E.W. Marland moved to Oklahoma and started the Marland Oil Company. This company once controlled 10% of the world’s oil reserves. In 1929 Marland Oil merged with Conoco oil company, which later merged with Phillips Petroleum. In 2012 the company split and ConocoPhillips has the upstream portion of the company and Phillips 66 has the refining and transportation portions of company. Phillips 66 still operates the largest refinery in OK.

There are many places of interest here especially if you love history. Make sure you take your camera, because if you’re like me you’ll be taking lots of pictures. If you love to keep memories from your trip, make sure you get the free pamphlets from the museums to keep for your memories.

Standing Bear Park and Museum

This park and museum were built to help educate people about the history and cultural importance of the Native American culture and tribes in the area. Six tribes are represented: Ponca, Kaw, Osage, Pawnee, Otoe-Missouria and Tonkawa. In the middle of the park is a 22-foot statue of Standing Bear a Ponca chief. He was chosen for his fight with the government for Native American rights. He went to Washington and won his case that the judged ruled that all Natives have the same legal rights as all US citizens. There are many things to see in both the museum and park that help understand Native American history.

Marland Mansion Estate and Grand Home

E.W. Marland had two houses when he was in Ponca City. After moving to his second home, Marland Mansion, his first home became a museum. It showcases technology that had not been seen before such as a central vacuuming system and automatic dishwasher. It has the first indoor swimming pool built in Oklahoma. E. W. Marland later went on to be the 10th governor of Oklahoma and then turned his mansion into a museum that highlights his history and the history of oil in Oklahoma. These are a must see for history buffs!

More places to explore.

Pioneer Woman Museum– this is a museum that celebrates the history of all the women who helped shape the new frontier in the US. There is a great statue depicting the women and a very informative museum.

Conoco Museum– When Conoco merged with Marland Oil in 1929 it helped shape the history of the oil industry. They built this museum so that people could learn about the history of the oil industry.

Town of Ponca City– Riding through town you will find many historic buildings along with government offices and Sharp’s Indian Store that sells many native items and was established in 1989. I love finding older towns like this and learning about the history. This was a great place to stop.

Another place to check out is Kaw Lake. It is 8 miles east of Ponca City. You can enjoy camping, swimming, and boating here. We didn’t go here, but locals do recommend it.

Casinos

Osage-Ponca City: not only is there a casino here, but also a hotel with a pool and hot tub, fitness center, and business center. Hotel rooms come with coffee makers, mini-refrigerator, and other amenities. There are over 400 slot machines here. If you get hungry, there are two restaurants here. We stayed here and if you plan on staying in the area, I recommend it. The rooms are really nice, the food is good and of course we got to gamble!

Blue Star Gaming and Casino: This is a small casino in Ponca City. There are 100 slot machines here and a bingo hall. There is also a restaurant here that has some really good deals sometimes, so check it out while you are there. This is a great place for locals and tourists alike. If you like checking out all types of casinos, I would recommend coming here.

7 Clans Casino: 7 Clans has two casinos near Ponca City. The first is in Newkirk which is 15 miles from Ponca City. The second is in Red Rock, approximately 18 miles away. We went to the one in Newkirk. It has over 450 slot machines. 7 clans operate 3 casinos, 2 gasinos and First Council Casino and Resort. We still get offers from 7 clans for slot play and entertainment. Check one of them out if you have time.

Native Lights Casino: This casino is owned by the Tonkawa tribe. There are over 400 slot machines and electronic table games. If you’re hungry you can stop at the Buffalo Grill & Lounge. There is also a smoke shop on the property. We really enjoyed this casino because of the great people here.

Conclusion

Ponca City and the surrounding area is full of history and well worth the trip. If you love to learn about the history, enjoy the scenery, or love going to new casinos, this is a great place to explore. I know every state has some great places to explore, some well-known and others not so much and I encourage everyone to see what there is to explore near you and take a weekend, grab your camera and have fun. If you’re planning a vacation, investigate areas that aren’t so well known for tourists. You never know what you might find. Take some time and find your adventure! If you would like to see some of our travel videos click her: https://youtu.be/OpJ4jTrsxJs

The post Why you should visit Ponca City, Oklahoma appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

This post includes some affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, we will receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support.

The Horses

There are so many things to do in Shawnee, but one of the things it is best known for is the painted horses. The horses came to be in 2007 when Shawnee was celebrating their centennial. The mayor came up with the idea for local artists to paint the horses and help them get their names in public. There are over 3 dozen horses around town. In 2023, Shawnee was hit by a F2 tornado and a few of the horses were damaged so if you go to see them, please understand if one of the ones you’re looking for isn’t there. They are working to get them fixed. To learn more about the horses and download a map go to Painted Horses | Visit Shawnee, OK.

History

A little bit about the town. After the Civil War, the Sac & Fox tribe settled here, followed by the Kickapoo, Shawnee and Potawatomi. They all still share this land. In 1896, a railway system was built here. Trains played a big role in the 20’s to Shawnee’s economy. The Santa Fe Train Depot was built as the central hub. Another big industry in the 20’s was agriculture, specifically cotton. There were 8 or more cotton mills in the area. With World War 2, manufacturing came into play with Sylvania corporation moving here. Shawnee milling company still employs many people. Another well-known company started in Shawnee is Sonic Drive-ins which were born in Shawnee in 1959.

Places of Interest

As previously mentioned, Santa Fe Depot was built for the railroad industry. The train industry came to a stop in 1971, but the depot has been transformed into the Pottawatomie County Museum. It still has some of the brick streets and a collection of memorabilia.

Some other museums worth mentioning are Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art, which has ancient mummies, Aerospace Career Musuem, & be sure to stop at St. Gregory’s Abbey. The monks arrived in Shawnee in 1927 and started a catholic university here. To learn about the Native Americans in the area visit the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Cultural Heritage Center. There is a gift shop here and of course I bought some original art! The Citizen Potawatomi Nation also has an eagle aviary that you can visit.

Another place of interest is Oklahoma Baptist University. The campus is beautiful, and you can great selfies in front of the bison statues on campus.

Outdoor Adventures

If you’re looking to do some outdoor activities, Shawnee has them. There are the Shawnee Twin Lakes where you can fish, swim, water ski or hang out and have a picnic and enjoy the views. Another option is The Japanese Peace Garden & Shawnee Airport Track. You can get your exercise by running or biking around the airport and enjoying the garden. There is a butterfly garden at OSU extension, an arboretum at OK Baptist university or go get wet at Shawnee Splash Water Park.

Casinos

Last but not least, I have to mention the 5 casinos in the area. In Oklahoma all casinos are run by Native American tribes. There are some really small casinos and some luxurious resorts in Oklahoma, but I have to say that I love all of them here because the people are so friendly and they just have a great atmosphere.

First on the list in Shawnee is the Thunderbird Casino- Absentee Shawnee Tribe. The next one is Kickapoo Casino- Kickapoo Nation of OK. Next up is The Black Hawk Casino- Sac & Fox Nation. The last two are both Citizen Potawatomi Nation casinos; FireLake Casino and Grand Casino. We really enjoyed all of these casinos and we have stayed at the Grand a couple of times. For more on these go to our casino website.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many things to explore in Shawnee. We had a lot of fun riding around looking for the painted horses. Santa Fe depot was really unique and if you have read some of our other posts, you know I am very interested in Native American culture and arts, so the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Cultural Heritage Center was a bonus for me.

I hope this inspires you to explore areas of interest to you and maybe even plan a trip to Oklahoma. There is so much more in this state than I would have ever imagined. Having now moved to Nevada, I’m finding so many things to do in the southwestern states, so I think if you look you can probably find lots of interesting things in every state. I hope this inspires you to look for your own adventure, even if it’s just a day trip near you! For more of our travel adventures, please go to : https://youtu.be/pDGpKMQWPoM

The post Best things to do in Shawnee, Oklahoma appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.