The Chickasaw National Recreation Area got its start when the government purchased 640 acres of land from the Chickasaw Nation to protect mineral and freshwater springs. In 1906, additional acreage was added and named Platt National Park.

Seventy years later, Platt National Park, Arbuckle Recreation Area, the 2,350-acre Lake of the Arbuckles and additional lands joined to form the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. It's the perfect destination for water enthusiasts. Little Niagara and Rock Creek lure swimmers and waders, Veterans Lake beckons skillful anglers and Lake of the Arbuckles calls to motorboaters and skiers for outdoor adventures. There is also a variety of walking paths and trails in the area. The Travertine district, which embraces the old Platt National Park, is like a large city park, and the Oka' Chokmasi pocket park is a perfect place to simply enjoy the natural scenery.

Bill Wright: Profiles of a Nation on Chickasaw.tv.