7 of the Most Beautiful Places to See in Oklahoma

Oklahoma is a beautiful state full of gorgeous scenery and natural waterfalls. Get excited about treks along scenic byways, forested hills, and ancient mountains. That’s just the beginning! Scroll down to see the most beautiful places to see in Oklahoma!

1. Robbers Cave State Park

Once a hideout for outlaws Jesse James and Belle Starr, this park is now popular among equestrians. Its beautiful scenery and rolling hills perfect for horse-riding. Even if you don’t know how to ride a horse, the park offers several other activities. On top of horse riders, the park boasts over 8000 acres of well-forested land and stunning fall foliage.  Explore famous outlaws’ cave hideout, sequestered in sandstone hills and cliffs well over 1500 feet tall.

The Park is also home to Lake Carlton, Lake Wayne Wallace, and Coon Creek. All three are also considered some of the most beautiful places to see in Oklahoma. In addition, the park offers outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, cliff-climbing, and trout-fishing.

2. Black Mesa Area

Known for its history in panhandling, the Black Mesa Area is in the northwest of Oklahoma. As a result, the highest point of Oklahoma can be found here, with the Black Mesa plateau standing at 4,973 feet.

Hikers to this point are rewarded with a stunning view of the tri-state area. Furthermore, Black Mesa State Park and Nature Preserve, located nearby, is also an ideal place for wildlife watchers.  Catch glimpses of the golden eagle, the black bear, and the bighorn sheep. Because of this, the area is reminiscent of its history of cowboys riding horses through its wide-open spaces and the prehistoric animals that once walked the land.

3. Glover River

Glover River is unique because it is the last major free-flowing river. It flows wild, without dams or water releases to block or redirect its flow. The secluded area makes it ideal for sightseeing.

Glover River remains pristine, running southward through McCurtain County. Visitors to this river should study its topography and unpredictable waters beforehand, as the journey can be dangerous. However, the views while floating through the water are fantastic. Adventurous visitors may be lured by the fact that it remains uncommercialized, and those with experience may call this river one of the best-kept secrets in Oklahoma.

4. Grand Lake of the Cherokees

One of the state’s most popular lake destinations, Grand Lake of the Cherokees came from the Pensacola Dam project in 1940. Its 1,300 miles of shoreline are some of the most scenic in the state. It’s a favorite among adventurers and outdoorsmen alike. Bordered by five state parks, its landscapes are matchless in beauty and grandness.

The Serpentine Grand Lake boasts proximity to the Spavinaw Hills, featuring a reputation for great fishing, hunting, and exceptional recreational facilities. Several charming communities border around the lake. They offer accommodations, dining, and many other family activities. The Grand Lake of the Cherokees truly is fun for everyone.

5. Talimena National Scenic Byway

Being a popular destination for fall foliage tours, the Talimena National Scenic Byway located in the Ouachita National Forest in southeast Oklahoma is a perfect place for nature to show off its fall colors. Surrounded by mountainsides flaming in the fall, the route is fifty-four miles of breathtaking nature and spectacular views. The Talimena Drive is a long, winding road full of gorgeous trees and scenic views, and was built specifically to highlight the area’s foliage and spans the mountain ranges between the Appalachians and the Rockies. Visitors traveling along the route are treated to views of forest peaks awash in vibrant shades of red and gold not just in Oklahoma, but also in Arkansas. Driving down this route is a unique experience in the splendors of nature.

6. Natural Falls State Park

Natural Falls State Park is a quiet oasis, and one of the most beautiful places to see in Oklahoma. It boasts a natural 77-foot waterfall that urges visitors to trek down the trails to a beautiful basin pool. Moreover, it also features a diversity of fauna, with seventeen different varieties of fern thriving in the humidity of the cascades.

The valley is full of tranquillity and beauty. It allows visitors a place to exhale in the middle of a gorgeous sprawl of nature. Find your peace surrounded by flowering redbud and the luminous dogwood. Visitors to the area are often found camping and hiking. Most importantly, Natural Falls State Park also allows visitors to sit and enjoy a quiet moment, perhaps read a book, at the base of the falls. It is truly a very peaceful place.

7. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

In a sea of the prairie lays the 59,000 acres of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Located in Lawton, it hosts a diverse amount of wildlife that will enchant any visitor. Wildlife watchers can find themselves encountering free-range American bison herds, prairie dogs, and Texas longhorn cattle. After that, watch bobcats and even coyotes in an unparalleled experience. However, its crown jewel is located on its eastern edge. Mount Scott remains one of Oklahoma’s most prominent mountains.

A long and winding road leads to the summit, which features a breathtaking view of Oklahoma. Towering above sea level, the view is a gorgeous landscape of lakes and forests. After reaching the summit, you can view stunning rock formations and miles of picturesque trees.

Reminders:

• Hikers have exclusive access to the mountain on weekends.
• Meanwhile, cars and bikers have exclusive access during the week, but they have to be off the mountain by noon.

Oklahoma boasts ancient mountain ranges, prairie, mesas, and eastern forests. On top of that, it is a warm state full of adventurous, hospitable people, with unbeatable views.

With its shared history of optimism, innovation, and courage, Oklahoma is truly a unique state that most people should experience in their lifetime. Visit the most beautiful places to see in Oklahoma, and try the 15 Best Things to Do in the state!