Unplug and Unwind
Lose yourself in a sweeping mountain view, in the white noise of a rushing river or in an urban oasis. Few places reveal the true value of a moment’s peace quite like these scenic sanctuaries.
CHICKASAW NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
901 W 1st St • Sulphur
If you like to unwind with hiking trails, freshwater springs, wildlife or a quiet lake, the Chickasaw National Recreation Area is the spot for you. The expansive area’s natural scenery feels miles off the grid, all the while being just minutes from downtown Sulphur.
NEARBY: The Point Campground, Chickasaw Retreat and Conference Center, Lake of the Arbuckles
BLUE RIVER
3400 S Hutchins Ln • Tishomingo
Take the gravel Cheadle Road and winding course along the Blue River to find a perfect campground nestled along the shore. Although popular for flyfishing, the Blue River’s shallow wading areas provide a place for weary adventurers and their pets to cool off and relax.
NEARBY: Blue River Valley Winery, Harrington Creek, Lake Durant Park
ARBUCKLE TRAIL RIDES
4401 N U.S. Hwy 177 • Sulphur
There’s no better way to explore Oklahoma’s mountainous scenery and lush green landscapes than on the saddle of a horse. These relaxing, guided trail rides are arranged to fit your custom needs and skill level and are a memorable way to connect with nature.
NEARBY: Little Niagara Falls, The Artesian Hotel, Echo Canyon Spa Resort, Chickasaw National Recreation Area
LAKE MURRAY
13528 Scenic Hwy 77 • Ardmore
With over 5,728 surface acres of water and 1,000 acres of trails, you can explore as off the grid as you please at Lake Murray State Park. Kick back on the porch of your floating cabin and listen to the gentle waves or soak up some rays while cruising open waters.
NEARBY: Dukes Forest Campground, Lake Murray Marina Beach, Murray Harbor, Lake Murray Lodge
MARTIN PARK NATURE CENTER
5000 W Memorial Rd • Oklahoma City
You won’t find a place in OKC that feels as remote as Martin Park Nature Center. While located a few miles north of the lively city core, this peaceful, 144-acre natural sanctuary is a breath of fresh air for those who enjoy outdoor walking trails and watching wildlife.
NEARBY: Gaillardia Golf Club, Lake Hefner, Strebel Creek Winery
TISHOMINGO NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
11766 S Refuge Rd • Tishomingo
Travelers seeking peace and quiet retreat to this unencumbered sanctuary to see Oklahoma’s diverse plants and wildlife flourish as nature intended. This destination is completely off the grid, where rustling trees, humming bees and chattering birds overtake any buzzing cellphone.
NEARBY: Washita River, Tishomingo Golf Course, Chickasaw White House
ARBUCKLE MOUNTAINS
South-Central Oklahoma • Chickasaw Country
With forests, prairies, grasslands and an abundance of natural springs and beautiful rock formations, the Arbuckles paint a picturesque backdrop for relaxing in the great outdoors. Just as you’re swept away by the natural beauty, the limitless trove of activities calls.
NEARBY: Cross Bar Offroad Park, Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies, Turner Falls Park
A Breath of Fresh Air
Renew your appetite for adventure with a change of scenery.
Off the Grid Destinations
Beautiful Lake Murray is known for the clarity and color of its waters and its seemingly endless list of recreational opportunities. Framed by the thick forest of Murray State Park, this 100-foot-deep, spring-fed lake also houses a wide variety of birds, including the rare wintering bald eagle. Lake Murray is a popular destination for a variety of activities, including camping, swimming, hiking, golf, tennis, horseback riding, fishing, boating, sailing, riding ATVs and more.
Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge provides a natural, unencumbered habitat for a variety of native Oklahoma species and is a fun place to tour, whether you’re interested in viewing wildlife, fishing or just enjoying a bit of peace and quiet. The refuge also acts as a bird sanctuary, housing almost 300 different species of birds. Home to Lake Texoma, the Washita River, a shooting range and camping areas, this 13,286-square-mile expanse offers relaxation, restoration and plenty of activities for the energetic.
The Blue River winds its way throughout the southern region of Oklahoma, inviting guests to enjoy leisurely activities such as fishing, canoeing, kayaking and rafting. It is one of the bodies of water in the state in which trout can be found in the winter, and fly fishing for smallmouth bass is another popular pastime.
A trip to the Arbuckle Mountains isn't complete without booking an afternoon at the Arbuckle Trail Rides, a rustic, guided experience that will take you for a relaxing ride through mountainous scenery and lush green landscapes.
Journey through Oklahoma's oldest national park, the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, which has served as a haven for outdoors enthusiasts since 1902. Water in all forms, from springs and streams to lakes and more, is the area's main attraction.
You haven’t experienced true natural beauty until you've visited the Arbuckle Mountains in Chickasaw Country. The ecological diversity of the range moves from forest to prairie to grassland with an abundance of natural springs. Bring your hiking boots or camping gear for an exciting adventure any time of the year!
Open 51 weeks a year, Martin Park Nature Center provides a peaceful, 144-acre natural sanctuary in the midst of Oklahoma City's urban surroundings. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, from birds and butterflies to foxes, armadillos and reptiles. And for those looking to explore the area's environment, there are 2.5 miles of gentle hiking trails made of gravel and packed soil.
