10 Hidden Gems in Oklahoma Perfect for a Fall Getaway
As fall’s crisp air starts to set in, now’s the perfect opportunity to pack your bags and get out to discover some of Oklahoma’s best-kept secrets.
Though this might not be the first destination that comes to mind when dreaming up a fall travel getaway, the state’s varied landscapes, vibrant autumn foliage, and off-the-beaten-path destinations provide an experience that can rival more well-trod locales.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history geek, or someone who craves solitude, Oklahoma has a little something all its own waiting for you.
Here are 10 undiscovered treasures hidden throughout the Sooner State, ideal for a fall getaway.
From tranquil lakes surrounded by amber foliage to delightful small towns steeped in history, these retreats are more than just getaways — they’re a memorable experience.
So, why resort to the same boring destination when you can find Oklahoma’s hidden treasures?
Read on to find your next autumn adventure.
1. Talimena Scenic Drive
The drive takes in one of Oklahoma’s most spectacular drives, the Talimena Scenic Drive, which gets you up close to the Ouachita National Forest.
In the fall, the winding road is flanked by fiery splashes of red, orange and yellow, making it a mecca for leaf-peepers and photographers.
Drivers will enjoy 54 miles of well-placed pull-offs where the view may prompt a stop and perhaps a picnic.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
Off the beaten path in terms of out-of-state tourism, this route is a pleasure for locals, and you can enjoy the sights without all the people.
The calmness and beauty of nature make it a great place to bring people closer to the beauty of nature.
What to Do:
A hike on one of the trails that you can access right off the drive, such as the Old Military Road Trail or the Horsethief Springs Trail, can be a nice complement, both providing more time to enjoy the fall scenery.
2. Beavers Bend State Park
Located in southeastern Oklahoma, Beavers Bend State Park is an outdoor paradise.
Dense forests, clear rivers, and the beautiful Broken Bow Lake call this park home, and they all seem to sparkle even more in fall.
If you are into fishing, hiking, or just chilling by the campfire, Beavers Bend has something to offer.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
Beavers Bend is the ideal place in the fall, minus the significant foot traffic in better-known parks.
The park’s large scale, which particularly draws summer crowds, allows for a tranquil escape into nature.
What to Do:
Rent a cabin or camp there in a tent at one of the park’s campgrounds.
Make sure to hike the David Boren Hiking Trail, winding through several of the most scenic areas of the park.
3. Wichita Mountains wildlife refuge
The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is a 59,000-acre sanctuary where rugged beauty meets wildlife viewing.
American bison, Texas longhorn cattle, and prairie dogs roam the refuge, with stunning rock formations and rolling plains as a backdrop.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
The Wichita Mountains are often overlooked by many travelers, but they are incredibly beautiful and full of wildlife.
This makes it a just-right spot for anyone seeking to escape the packed-in and get a taste of Oklahoma’s natural beauty.
What to Do:
Drive to the top of Mount Scott for sweeping views of the refuge and beyond.
Be sure to hike the Elk Mountain Trail or check out the historic Holy City of the Wichitas, a recreation of ancient Jerusalem.
4. Turner Falls Park
Oklahoma’s tallest waterfall, at 77 feet, resides in Turner Falls Park in the Arbuckle Mountains.
The park is a popular summer destination, but it’s in the fall when its beauty really shines.
The surrounding forests explode with color, creating a breathtaking contrast with the falls’ crystal-clear waters.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
Turner Falls is well known among locals but tends to be eclipsed by more famous waterfalls in sister states.
That makes it an ideal location for travelers seeking a less famous, but still stunning, fall destination.
What to Do:
Swim in the park’s natural swimming holes, hike to the nearby caves, or just relax and watch the serenity of the falls.
5. Robbers Cave State Park
Robbers Cave State Park is another great destination in fall, steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty.
The name of the park comes from hearing from people that outlaw Jesse James and Belle Starr were known to use the area as a hideout.
Today’s park is famous for its rough-hewn cliffs, thick woods, and placid lakes.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
With a blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty, Robbers Cave is one of Oklahoma’s lesser-known state parks.
Perfect for those looking for some adventure, not to mention a slice of the past.
What to Do:
Hike the park’s vast trail system, rock climb on the sandstone cliffs, or drive to the nearby Belle Starr View Lodge for a sweeping view of the fall foliage.
6. Heavener Runestone Park
Heavener Runestone Park Heavener Runestone Park is not a large destination but it is an interesting one located in the Ouachita Mountains.
The park contains a mysterious runestone inscribed with ancient Norse letters, believed by some to be proof of a Viking exploration of Oklahoma.
The wooded hills around are stunning in the fall, and it’s a great place for a quiet getaway.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
The park’s isolated locale and the mysterious runestone lend it an air of mystique that appeals to inquisitive travelers.
It’s an offbeat destination well-suited for people who want to delve into Oklahoma’s obscure history and some peace and quiet.
What to Do:
Stroll the short trail to the runestone, wander the park’s scenic lookouts and spend some time soaking in the calm surroundings.
7. Gloss Mountain State Park
The scenery at Gloss Mountain State Park is unlike any you will see in Oklahoma.
The park’s honey-hued walls have been replaced by striking red mesas and buttes, and, in warm autumn light, the surfaces are nearly phosphorescent.
It’s one great outpost for photographers and outdoor lovers in tandem.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
Gloss Mountain State Park does not attract the attention of Oklahoma’s more traditional landscapes, and that is okay with me: It is a hidden gem to those who appreciate the unusual and the beautiful.
The area is remote enough that you can soak up the breathtaking views in relative solitude.
What to Do:
Hike Cathedral Mountain Trail for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Pack your camera to document the region’s one-of-a-kind beauty.
8. Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge
Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge is one of Oklahoma’s most unusual destinations.
The refuge’s namesake salt flats stretch for miles, forming a stark and otherworldly landscape.
In the fall, the refuge is also a hot spot for birdwatching, as thousands of migratory birds pass through the area.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
The salt flats are a natural wonder that many outside of Oklahoma don’t know about.
Therefore, those looking for something really special, the refuge is the right place to go.
What to Do:
You can try selenite crystal digging, a favorite activity at the refuge, or walk along the Salt Flats Trail and observe all the various wildlife.
9. Alabaster Caverns State Park
Alabaster Caverns State Park contains one of the largest natural gypsum caves in the world, and it’s the only gypsum cave in the United States that’s open to the public for tours.
The park’s spectacular topography and unique geological features make it an interesting destination any time of year, but in the fall, it’s especially beautiful.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
For geology and adventure enthusiasts, the park is a rare find; however, its remote location means it remains fairly under the radar.
The cooler fall temperatures are also perfect for exploring the caves.
What to Do:
Join a guided tour of the cave to discover its history and geology.
For more adventure, try wild caving, where you can explore off-trail areas of the cave.
10. Roman Nose State Park
Roman Nose State Park, named after a Cheyenne chief and a place where Native Americans once gathered, combines nature with history.
The park is in the scenic gypsum hills and includes canyons, lakes, and natural springs.
Autumn is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the changing foliage transforms the landscape.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
Roman Nose State Park is a beautiful and historic park that is largely unknown outside of Oklahoma.
That makes it an ideal place for a peaceful, beautiful getaway.
What to Do:
Hike the Mesa Loop Trail for panoramic views of the park, golf a round on the park’s 18-hole course or just relax by one of the park’s lakes.
Conclusion
As we have established, Oklahoma may not be the first place you think of for a fall getaway, but its unique, tucked-away stops will give you an experience just as rich and rewarding as your more recognized counterparts.
Oklahoma’s diverse landscapes and unique attractions make it worth exploring — from scenic drives and wildlife refuges to mysterious runestones and gypsum caves.
As fall foliage paints the state, these secret spots get even more magical.
So why not do something different this fall?
Share this article with your fellow travelers, and they can begin planning their drive to find Oklahoma’s hidden gems.
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