Head to the Arbuckle Mountains!
Welcome to southeast Chickasaw Country, overflowing with numerous water attractions, outdoor exploration opportunities and lakes, including one of the largest lakes in the state. This is the perfect place to soak up the rays and splash in the waves, discover the wonders of Sulphur for a rejuvenating weekend, ride horseback along the Arbuckle Mountains and absorb First American culture through beautiful Chickasaw Nation museums. Relax in the great south-central Oklahoma outdoors while exploring this region.
Davis - Davis lies in the heart of Chickasaw Country. The town is bustling with small-town charm offering an old-fashioned Main Street with antique stores and boutiques. Davis is home to the oldest park in Oklahoma with the largest waterfall in the state! The recreational area has been a popular family destination since its opening and features a rock castle, natural caves, novelty shops, picnic sites, hiking trails and much more.
Sulphur - Sulphur offers visitors the chance to have the best of all worlds. From luxurious attractions and abundant nature to wildlife and a historic downtown, the city of Sulphur has plenty for visitors to enjoy! Sulphur is full of opportunities to experience the history and success of the Chickasaw Nation.
Things to do:
Chickasaw National Recreation Area (CNRA) - As one of only three Oklahoma parks affiliated with National Park Service, this national park is a beautiful oasis of water, foliage and wildlife creating the perfect backdrop for all your favorite outdoor activities. The CNRA offers year-round activities such as boating, skiing, sailing, fishing, swimming, hiking and camping. The Recreation Area provides more than 30 miles of trails for both novice and experienced hikers to enjoy. The Travertine Nature Center serves as the park’s main educational center providing groups with interactive learning opportunities, informational exhibits and other ranger-led programs including guided hikes and educational tours on the flora and fauna found within the park.
Turner Falls Park - Nestled within the Arbuckle Mountains, Turner Falls Park is the oldest park in Oklahoma complete with natural caves, hiking trails, a stone castle and 77-foot waterfall creating natural swimming pools for all to enjoy. Discovered by Mazeppa Thomas Turner in 1878, Turner Falls has received national publicity for its likeness to the Grand Canyon and Black Hills of South Dakota. Those visiting the park are encouraged to take full advantage of these outdoor activities and explore 1,500 acres of fun in the heart of the Arbuckles.
777 Zip - Enjoy nature from a different perspective at Turner Falls. Located in Davis, The Soaring Eagle zips you across 777 feet of open air with an incredible view of the Arbuckle Mountain Range, Collings Castle and Turner Falls. You can ride solo or bring a friend; just be sure to buckle up and hold on tight as you soar through the sky at speeds of up to 28 mph. Please see their website for more information and questions about physical limitations.
Places to Eat:
Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies - Get your fingers on some fabulous fried pies! Located right off Exit 51 on I-35, Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies is a famous stop for mouth-watering breakfast, lunch and dessert fried pies. The original location, which is nestled within the Arbuckle Mountains in Davis, offers small town charm and out-of-this-world pastries in dozens of flavors.
Fat Bully’s by the Lake – If you wanting something laid back but delicious, Fat Bully’s is the place for you. Best known for the three Bs: BURGERS, BEERS and BIKES, this is a fantastic scenic destination to drive or ride to when looking for a fun environment paired with great beer and burgers!
Places to Stay:
If you aren’t planning on camping at Turner Falls or the CNRA, there are a few other options in this area of Chickasaw Country!
A.L. Hideaway Cabins - Nestled in the woods less than a mile from Arbuckle Lake, take your pick of two efficient cedar cabins for a most peaceful retreat in Davis. The Hideaway Cabin is equipped with bed linen, towels, cooking utensils, television, fire pit and BBQ/smoker outside. The Hilltop Hideaway Cabin accommodates six or more guests with the same amenities.
Deer Creek Lodges and Cabins - Deer Creek Lodges are only two minutes from Arbuckle Wilderness, an exotic animal park, and 15 minutes from Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Five lodges are conveniently located near an RV park and motel. Two of the lodges have extra private rooms and a large deck overlooking the lake. There are endless outdoor activities offered including hiking trails, fishing, paddle boats, horseshoes, swimming, canoeing and volleyball.
The next time you are looking for a day trip, weekend escape or week away, look no further than the Arbuckle Mountains in south-central Oklahoma.
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