Head to the Arbuckle Mountains!
Welcome to southeast Chickasaw Country, where outdoor adventure meets natural beauty. Enjoy lake days at one of Oklahoma’s largest lakes, or explore the Arbuckle Mountains with hiking and horseback riding. Visit the Davis and Sulphur region for a relaxing weekend and uncover the local attractions and scenic landscapes.
Davis and Sulphur, two towns in the heart of the Arbuckle Mountains region, offer a mix of nature, history and small-town charm. Sulphur features visitor attractions, wildlife and Chickasaw Nation history, while Davis offers Main Street shops and Oklahoma's oldest park, which is home to the state's largest waterfall and popular family recreation spots.
Things to do:
Arbuckle Wilderness Park—Located within the Arbuckle Mountains in Davis, the Arbuckle Wilderness Park offers a unique opportunity to get up close with hundreds of exotic animals across 200 acres. Visitors can drive through the safari, feed animals from their vehicle or explore the zoo and House of Reptiles. This park is excellent for family or group outings and wildlife lovers.
Chickasaw National Recreation Area (CNRA)— As one of only three Oklahoma parks affiliated with the National Park Service, this national park is a beautiful oasis of water, foliage and wildlife, creating the perfect backdrop for all your favorite outdoor activities. The CNRA offers year-round activities such as boating, skiing, sailing, fishing, swimming, hiking and camping. The Recreation Area provides more than 30 miles of trails for both novice and experienced hikers to enjoy. The Travertine Nature Center serves as the park’s main educational center, providing groups with interactive learning opportunities, informational exhibits and other ranger-led programs, including guided hikes and educational tours on the flora and fauna found within the park.
Turner Falls Park—Nestled within the Arbuckle Mountains, Turner Falls Park is the oldest park in Oklahoma complete with natural caves, hiking trails, a stone castle and a 77-foot waterfall, creating natural swimming pools for all to enjoy. Discovered by Mazeppa Thomas Turner in 1878, Turner Falls has received national publicity for its likeness to the Grand Canyon and Black Hills of South Dakota. Those visiting the park are encouraged to take full advantage of these outdoor activities and explore 1,500 acres of fun in the heart of the Arbuckles.
Washita River Floats—Experience the natural beauty of the Arbuckle Mountains with a scenic float down the Washita River. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, these floats offer a peaceful journey through stunning landscapes, providing visitors with a unique way to explore the area's wildlife and surroundings. They are perfect for anyone looking to add a relaxing adventure to their Arbuckle Mountain getaway.
Places to Eat:
Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies—Get your fingers on some fabulous fried pies! Right off Exit 51 on I-35, Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies is a famous stop for mouth-watering breakfast, lunch and dessert fried pies. The original location, nestled within the Arbuckle Mountains in Davis, offers small-town charm and out-of-this-world pastries in dozens of flavors.
Smokin' Joe's Rib Ranch—While visiting Turner Falls or the Arbuckle Wilderness in Davis, stop at Smokin’ Joe’s Rib Ranch. Whether dining in or grabbing food to go, this BBQ spot never disappoints. Known for its mouthwatering dishes and catering services, Smokin' Joe's is a local favorite that keeps visitors returning for more.
Places to Stay:
If you aren’t planning on camping at Turner Falls or the CNRA, there are a few other options in this area of Chickasaw Country!
Arbuckle Outfitters—Find your ideal stay with Arbuckle Outfitters in Sulphur. Choose from six cabins, each offering unique amenities and easy access to the scenic Arbuckle Mountains. Located just 10 minutes from Sulphur's top attractions, including the Chickasaw Cultural Center and Turner Falls, these cabins are ideal for family and group stays in the heart of nature.
River Bend Lodge—Located in the Arbuckle Mountains near Davis, River Bend Lodge provides a secluded retreat on 70 acres along the Washita River. Each lodge features custom woodwork, a full kitchen, washer/dryer and hand-made log beds. Enjoy individual fire pits, screen porches with hot tub spas and extended decks for group gatherings.
The next time you are looking for a day trip, weekend escape or week-long getaway, look no further than the Arbuckle Mountains in Oklahoma.
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