A Guide To National Parks In Oklahoma

Oklahoma is termed as the ‘Gateway to the West.’ If you want a short yet adventurous trip with your family, friends, or you are beloved; then this is the best spot. A land of dirt, with loitering buffaloes and distant landscape – all these actually define the beauty of the place.

However, the air in its cities is not refined anymore due to the presence of several oil rigs after the early 1900’s oil surge. Needless to mention that the significant points of attraction are its National parks. If you have a unique love for history, then you should not return without visiting the national parks of Oklahoma.

They are national parks, but they have historic trails and sites, including recreation areas and memorials. Collaboratively, they hold the diversity and history together, and here lies the natural beauty of Oklahoma.

This guide is tailored for you if you are coming to Oklahoma shortly. So brace yourself and keep reading the below segment to get a fascinating list of national parks in Oklahoma.

List Of National Parks In Oklahoma

Oklahoma is a state located in the United States south-central region. Kansas borders on the north, Texas on the West and south, Missouri on the northeast, and Arkansas on the East. The place is famous for its National Parks as well as the mesmerizing flora and fauna that they carry.

The National Parks in Oklahoma are accurate representations of nature’s raw beauty. With distinct geographical and historical features, the place is a favorite destination for all travel freaks. In addition, it is connected to every part of the world via airways, roadways, railways, and waterways.

Nevertheless, most tourists love to experience the journey with the thrilling pleasure of a road trip. Below we have presented a detailed guide to the best national parks in Oklahoma.

1. Oklahoma City National Memorial

It is a memorial to honor the rescuers, survivors, and victims of the 1995 city bombing. Besides these, it is also a national park where thousands of people visit every year. It features rescuers’ orchards, a reflecting pool, and a field of empty chairs.

You can also speak to park rangers to get insights on the memorial ground from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm every day.

2. Santa Fe National Historic Trail

It spans approximately 900 miles across five states of the United States – Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Colorado. But unfortunately, visitors rely on other means of identifying the routes. Thus, it is owing to the confusion in determining the easiest path.

The Santa Fe National Historic Trail is a very popular picnic spot on U.S. Highway 385 near the trail.

3. Chickasaw National Recreation Area

This historical, recreational treasure preserves south-central Oklahoma hills and includes the Platt National Park and Arbuckle Recreation Area. It received the name after the Chickasaw Indian Nation, which moved to this area in the 1830s. But, in its true sense, it is one of the principal National Park sections in the Great Plains.

The splendid beauty of this national park revolves around lakes, streams, and springs covering about 2409 acres. Swimming, hiking, camping, fishing, and boating are just a few of several outdoor activities available to sightseers.

Do you want to hear a piece of secret information? The events here are absolutely free to attend. Isn’t that wonderful?

4. Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

It honors the journey of 16000 displaced who relocated to Oklahoma. While a number of them traveled on foot, many died on the way itself. This is why people remember this route as the ‘Trail of Tears.’ What more? -You can join the remembrance hikes through the trail for recollection of memories.

If you want to learn more about this historic movement’s background, campsites, and burial sites, you can visit Kentucky’s Cherokee Trail of Tears Commemorative Park.

5. Fort Smith National Historic Site

This is another national park with a touch of history and military background. The original of the fort dates back to 1817. It also attributes to the jail building, the courthouse, the commissary building, and the gallows.

The visitor area symbolizes the following aspects:

Expansion of the United States
Cherokee Trail of Tears
The impact of the federal court on Indian Territory justice

6. Washita Battlefield National Historic Site

It is another historic site to recognize the loss of precious lives in the fight between Cheyenne village and the U.S. Cavalry. Indeed, it was one of the most dreadful incidents of the Great Plains Wars.

Here the tourists enjoy the allowance of walking and exploring across the site. Additionally, the visitors’ center will let you know more about the battle and its Martyrs.

Some More Facts

The three national parks out of the above receive over 1.5 million visitors per year. These three parks are

Chickasaw National Recreation Area
Fort Smith National Historic Site
Washita Battlefield National Historic Site

Therefore, it is clear that the tourism sector benefits the economy of the state by producing $27 million in revenue a year. Besides the two national trails, the national parks in Oklahoma include 22 national historic landmarks and 1290 historical places.

The Final Thoughts

Now that you know the best national parks in Oklahoma, you should not face any more difficulties planning a trip. The vivid climatic distinctiveness is more prominent as you move from the East to the West. In addition, the natural habitats of a myriad of plant and animal species make the state suitable for educational tours as well.

If you are planning a tour there, don’t forget to revise this guide once again. If not, then what are you waiting for? The national parks in Oklahoma are waiting for you. So quickly reserve some holidays, and head out for the escapade.

A Guide To National Parks In Oklahoma – Latest Guide