OKC Day Trips: Top 5 Adventures Near Oklahoma City
Okay, so you’re kicking around Oklahoma City, and while it is that kinda place that boasts some fantastic stuff to do, that wide world beyond the city limits has all sorts of fun, very interesting, and super memorable things waiting to be seen! Honestly, these spots make for great day trips that offer a quick escape, showing a bit of Oklahoma that you might not normally see, and that’s something special. You get a change of scenery, a bit of history, or maybe you find that quirky small town you did not realize you needed in your life.
1. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
If you feel like stretching your legs a bit, getting close to some animals, or even looking at those kinds of views that go on seemingly forever, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton is truly something, is that right? It’s almost like stepping into a different state, with its rocky hills and prairie lands rolling as far as you can glimpse. Actually, the Refuge has bison roaming freely; now isn’t that something? Plus, you can usually spot prairie dogs, deer, and maybe an elk if you are keeping your eyes peeled. Don’t you forget the hiking trails though; there are options for just about every fitness level. That said, for an easy climb with fantastic payoff, check out the trail to the top of Mount Scott, it offers a breathtaking panoramic scene that’s well worth the tiny bit of effort, or does it now?
It has got to be said that the lakes peppered throughout the refuge are like little sparkling jewels, very worth visiting, so too are they inviting. If you feel inclined, that could mean you want to paddle a kayak or simply sit along the shore and soak it all in. Remember to take your camera! So many of us do, yet the landscape just begs to be photographed, capturing those beautiful Oklahoma sunsets you might even tell your grandkids about one day. Very apparently, visiting the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is basically getting back in touch with the outdoors. What you’ll find, is something very peaceful.
2. Turner Falls Park
For those searching out some refreshing cool-off opportunities mixed with incredible scenery, Turner Falls Park, down near Davis, could be just what the doctor ordered; I’m positive! Now, it has got to be said that Turner Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Oklahoma, offering all kinds of opportunities to splash around or swim in its natural pools; sounds nice, no? Then there are caves to explore, hiking spots with vistas that stretch for miles, and even a really cool castle to check out. That’s a whole lot going on!
Very nearly, that waterpark aspect gives you a bit of reprieve from Oklahoma heat and some really nice photo opportunities, but honestly, do wear water shoes! Very rocky conditions present a risk that one will stub a toe, twist an ankle or some otherwise similar pain-inducing phenomenon. Seriously, your feet will very surely thank you for this bit of forethought, as it’s actually kind of tough to thoroughly enjoy yourself whilst hobbling. Now that I’ve mentioned it though, the historical castle provides a fun change of pace and is a chance to almost step back in time to a simpler version of ourselves. So, you’re sure to make it?
3. Chickasaw National Recreation Area
Close to Sulphur, you’ll find the Chickasaw National Recreation Area and you’re sure to find something pretty great, basically. The area is really known for its natural springs, streams, and Lake of the Arbuckles, a grand place to either get in a boat, a swim, or get some fishing done. Very apparently, this is that kinda getaway for anyone who appreciates calm and that opportunity to reconnect with nature. Just picture packing that picnic, laying out a blanket under one of those really old, big shade trees, listening to the gentle trickle of water running past…can’t get much better!
But don’t assume that it is all about lounging! Okay, it certainly can be. That is okay, and great, frankly. Still, the NRA is home to some good hiking trails which lead to picturesque little areas or to panoramic scenes. You might see some little critter activity, I’d bank on it. Whatever it might be that calls to you in this spot, whether camping under stars, investigating those small but engaging historical areas, the Chickasaw NRA might be just that escape you seek!
4. Guthrie, Oklahoma
Okay, how about diving deep back into history a little bit? Just a very short jaunt north of OKC takes you straight to Guthrie, once the first capital of Oklahoma! Basically, what that implies is that the whole place is steeped in all that charming turn-of-the-century architecture that could make just about anyone feel warm, almost nostalgic, especially with those really cool brick-paved streets! Really, there is this amazing sense of stepping back in time to experience how times used to be, that old fashioned hospitality and beauty is there for anyone looking, no joke!
If you have some room in your suitcase, I might propose exploring all the antique shops or hitting the local eateries in search of a delicious plate of the home cookin’ this part of the USA is famous for; trust me, no one leaves hungry! That Main Street is the bees’ knees, but beyond the aesthetic qualities of Main Street are its museums. Oh and yes, the town hosts live performances at the gorgeous old opera house! With so much cultural and historical richness packed into one spot, a day in Guthrie is like wandering through a living museum that you’re totally immersed in. Just don’t be surprised when you see someone decked out in period clothes sauntering down the sidewalk; I saw it once, and it only makes this scene that much more rich.
5. Beavers Bend State Park
It is my solemn belief that for a little something more rugged and for nature lovers, you should strongly think about Beavers Bend State Park near Broken Bow; its scenery will not disappoint. As a matter of fact, it sits way down in southeastern Oklahoma, really offering these pretty picturesque views of wooded mountains and this cool, pristine Broken Bow Lake, very similar to something in the Ozarks or Ouachitas. You might like that it is almost the right distance from OKC for a day trip; however, do be prepared for some solid hours in the automobile.
This area offers plenty to keep anyone busy and outdoorsy from those winding hiking trails with great vistas, to spots where trout fishing are a guarantee for even the most novice person (just ask a local!). I might suggest canoeing and kayaking too! If you’d rather relax and enjoy your surrounding landscape, Beaver’s Bend gives you a handful of lodging options where you can stay right on-site. That way, you will get up close and personal with Mother Earth in all her stunning array. That said, it really has it all!