Live it up in the great outdoors.
The seasons may change, but a family road trip will always be a classic. Oklahoma’s parks and outdoor spaces bring endless opportunities for fun activities any time of year, and there’s something exceptionally enjoyable about exploring in the fall. The cooler air and vibrant leaves set the perfect ambiance for making new memories together. Take a look at our list of destinations that highlight autumn’s excellence, and consider adding them to your itinerary.
Chickasaw Retreat and Conference Center
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Follow the winding Goddard Youth Camp Road as it leads you to the Chickasaw Retreat and Conference Center sitting atop one of the area’s best vantage points. With the scenic Arbuckle Mountains as a backdrop, you’re free to explore, hike, fish, kayak and live it up in the great outdoors. There’s no shortage of activities and adventure to be had here. Plus, guests will find a variety of amenities like indoor pool and hot tub, Sole’renity Spa, fitness center and steam room.
Lake Murray Floating Cabins
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Imagine falling sleep in a cozy floating cabin, with the cool fall air and sounds of gentle waves coming through the open windows. Then waking up to watch the sunrise from a porch swing, steaming coffee in one hand and a fishing rod in the other. Adventures have started before even having left the house, and Lake Murray is brimming with outdoor recreation. Be sure to book your stay at Lake Murray Floating Cabins in advance; cabins fill up fast this time of year!
Cross Bar Offroad Park
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Adrenaline junkies can have a field day at Cross Bar Offroad Park. This 6,500-acre extreme ranch is the largest offroad park in Oklahoma and Texas, with trails spanning over 200 miles of diverse offroad terrain. The park is open 24 hours a day for riders of every skill level to bring dirt bikes, 4 wheelers, UTVs, Jeeps, trucks or any type of offroad vehicle. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, but you can always book your ride online.
Arbuckle Trail Rides
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There’s nothing quite like experiencing the beauty of Chickasaw Country from the saddle of a horse. Take a relaxing ride across golden plains and witness the scenic landscape in its autumn transformation. Wildlife enthusiasts should remember a greater variety of animals venture out as the air gets colder. Arbuckle Trail Rides is open year-round, but due to fall hunting seasons, rides through the Chickasaw National Recreation Area will be only one hour in duration during select dates through the end of the year.
Blue River
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If you plan on taking a fall camping trip this year, set your sights on the Blue River, one of the state’s last free-flowing streams. There are primitive campsites perfectly nestled along 141 miles of shoreline, giving you plenty of space to enjoy the fall ambiance with a fire and some hot cider. We highly recommend this area to those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and soak up nature in its unbridled form.
Lake Hefner
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Encircled by bike trails, this urban oasis is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely sunset stroll, practice your golf swing, walk the dogs, start a game of volleyball or put some miles on your bike. Year-round water enthusiasts can sail and kayak on the 2,500-acre lake, and those who prefer dry land can watch from one of the outdoor patios at Redrock Canyon Grill, Mama Roja’s, Hefner Grill and Louie’s. The possibilities for fall fun are limitless.
Lake of the Arbuckles
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Lake of the Arbuckles’ 36 miles of shoreline attract a variety of visitors, from avid fishermen to families ready for fun and relaxation. Nearby amenities include campgrounds, picnic areas, public restrooms, drinking water, fishing docks and boat ramps. This is a great place to set up camp while exploring all of the natural beauty and outdoor recreation available throughout the surrounding Chickasaw National Recreation Area.
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Where do you plan to visit this fall?