Medicine Park Falls
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The resort of Medicine Park in SW Oklahoma developed as a resort town almost a century ago and families still head here in numbers. The attraction of the creek is obvious, with its waterfall within the town – much wider than it is high. The nearby Wichita Mountains and Lake Lawtonka add to the appeal of the region. Several cascades are found locally and swimming in the cool waters on a hot, sunny day is a delight. Several bridges cross the creek, providing great photo opportunities.
Little Niagara
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This Chickasaw National Recreation Area has been delighting visitors for decades. Just 90 minutes from Oklahoma City, it is a realistic day trip. The surroundings are wonderful, with the freshwater springs a great place to cool off. Travertine Creek has several cascades along its length Little Niagara is a favorite picnic place for families on the Creek. It gets its name because of its width rather than its height. Biking and hiking in the region are popular from early spring onwards, although the park is open all year round.
Beavers Bend Waterfall
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Head for South East Oklahoma and you will see nature at its best. The sound of the fast-flowing water of Beavers Bend Waterfall on Mountain Fork River adds to the sounds of nature itself. Water cascades down boulders at some pace during high season. The water is cold but you are welcome to swim – it is refreshing on a hot day. Hiking trails in Beavers Bend are very appealing, with good camping facilities for families. You can rent a kayak if you want to take to the water, or learn more about the area in a little museum.
Bricktown Falls
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Bricktown is a district of Oklahoma City and its canal attracts tourists every year. The waters are calm but many water taxi passengers come to check out the manmade Bricktown Falls that run alongside. Bricktown is an ongoing development project aimed at attracting tourists to the former site of William Cody’s Wild West Show. The falls play a central role in attracting tourists. If you are considering a tour of Oklahoma’s waterfalls, this is an excellent starting point.
Turner Falls
Turner Falls Park/Facebook Page
One of the tallest waterfalls in Oklahoma is Turner Falls in the park of the same name near Davis. A 77-foot cascade of water drops into a natural pool below, just inviting you to swim. The falls are a famous landmark in Oklahoma and families frequent them on a regular basis – partly because they are so accessible. You can enjoy a picnic and swim on a day trip, but camping is also popular – whether in a tent or RV. The Arbuckle Mountains are a great place to hike, explore caves and simply enjoy the natural environment.