Top Oklahoma State Parks and City Parks Near Broken Bow
The surprising beauty of Oklahoma is uniquely captured in its 35 official state parks. You can explore several outdoor activities through these beautifully maintained parks. Whether you want to enjoy more traditional outdoor entertainment such as hiking and fishing or mix it up with miniature golf and train rides, Oklahoma state parks can offer it all. Check out opportunities for Broken Bow Hiking Trails in the area.
Currently, the Broken Bow area boasts of several state parks. Chiefly, the Hochatown and Beaver Bend state parks are known to draw visitors from around the country. You can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor leisure at each of these Oklahoma state parks.
Let’s take a closer look at these parks and the surrounding area below.
Oklahoma State Parks Near Broken Bow
If you are visiting Broken Bow, you cannot pass up the opportunity to visit its nearby state parks. Here’s what you need to know about each before heading to the area.
Hochatown State Park
On the west shore of Broken Bow Lake, you’ll find Hochatown State Park. The park was originally part of Beavers Bend State Park. But it now has its own claim to fame. You’ll find boat ramps, beaches, hiking trails, and a golf course ready to satisfy your every outdoor desire.
You’ll have a wonderful time at this beautiful spot with all the amenities you need.
- Address: 4350 OK-259A, Broken Bow, OK 74728
- Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM
- Features and Amenities: Hiking trails, biking trails, boating, nature trails, 18-hole golf course, tennis, softball, volleyball, trout fishing, water skiing, nature center, river float trips, miniature golf, paddle boats, bumper boats, canoeing, horseback back riding, picnic areas, hayrides, train rides.
- Cost: $10 a day or $75 for an annual Oklahoma state park pass for out of state residents.
Beavers Bend State Park
Beavers Bend State Park is the second state park located on the banks of Broken Bow Lake. You’ll find that the amenities and features of this park are very similar to those offered by Hochatown State Park. With so many wonderful options, it may be hard to choose your activity for the day!
- Address: 4350 S, OK-259A, Broken Bow, OK, 74728
- Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM
- Features and Amenities: Hiking trails, biking trails, boating, nature trails, 18-hole golf course, tennis, softball, volleyball, trout fishing, water skiing, nature center, river float trips, miniature golf, paddleboats, bumper boats, canoeing, horseback back riding, picnic areas, hayrides, train rides, amphitheater, grocery, restaurant, Forest Heritage Center, eagle watches.
- Cost: $10 a day or $75 for an annual Oklahoma state park pass for out of state residents.
Talimena State Park
Talimena State Park is another beautiful park approximately 70 miles north of Beavers Bend State Park. When you enter the park, you’ll be starting the journey along the Talimena National Scenic Drive which is very well known for outstanding fall foliage. At any time of the year, you’ll enjoy the rugged beauty that this park has to offer.
- Address: 50884 Hwy 271 Talihina, OK 74571
- Hours: Open 24 hours each day
- Features and Amenities: Hiking trails, biking trails, campsites, grills, wildlife viewing, ATVing.
- Cost: $10 a day or $75 for an annual Oklahoma state park pass for out of state residents.
Attractions and Parks in Broken Bow
Beyond the nearby state parks, you should take advantage of the parks and attractions within Broken Bow. Here are a few to consider as you plan your trip:
Broken Bow City Park
The city park in Broken Park offers a range of recreation opportunities. If you are in town, you should check them out! You might enjoy a picnic or a walk around the small lake within the park. Overall, you can enjoy a nice outdoor outing without leaving the bounds of town!
Get more information about Broken Bow City Park here.
Gardner Mansion and Museum
The Gardner Mansion was the home of the Choctaw Chief Jefferson Gardner. Within the home, you’ll find a wide array of Native American artifacts and other relics from the area. Beyond the museum, you can walk to the landmark of the 2,000-year-old Cypress tree. Many Choctaws that walked the Trail of Tears understood the tree meant the end of their journey.
Overall, you’ll find an informative slice of history and an enjoyable outing.
- Address: 6745 E US Hwy 70 Broken Bow, OK 74728
- Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM Monday through Saturday, 2 PM to 5 PM Sunday
- Features and Amenities: Museum tours, gift shop.
- Cost: $5 for adults, $3 for children
Wine Tasting at Fish Tales Winery
The Broken Bow area is home to many of Oklahoma’s best wineries. You can find free tasting opportunities at the Fish Tales Winery near Broken Bow. You can pop in without a reservation and enjoy this quirky wine spot.
- Address: 17 Oak Leaf Lane, Broken Bow, OK 74728
- Hours: 11 AM to 5 PM
- Features and Amenities: Wine tastings, bistro
- Cost: Free tasting, wine for sale by the bottle
Hochatown Petting Zoo
If you have children in tow, the Hochatown petting zoo is a fun stop. The petting zoo boasts of a partial animal rescue service that is ready to help any animals in need. You’ll enjoy getting up close and personal with the friendly animals at this petting zoo.
- Address: 9177 US-259 Broken Bow, OK 74728
- Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM
- Features and Amenities: Petting zoo
- Cost: $8
Other City and Town Parks and Hiking Trails
You can expand your horizons even further by exploring what the rest of the county has to offer.
McCurtain County Public Parks
Beyond the state parks in the area, McCurtain County offers an outstanding array of public parks. You can enjoy free fun throughout the county with a surplus of outdoor activities to fill your day.
A few of the most popular spots in McCurtain County public parks include:
- Mountain Fork Park. If you enjoy hiking, fishing, and kayaking, then Mountain Fork Park is the perfect place for you. You’ll find plentiful opportunities to get on the water at this park.
- David Boren Hiking Trail. The David Boren Hiking Trail is composed of seven smaller trails that can be used in any pattern to suit your timeline and hiking abilities. Hikers of any level will enjoy this spot.
- Skyline Trail. This quick five-mile trail offers steep climbs and waterfall views. You can enjoy this short hike with your furry friend if you keep them on a leash.
- Stevens Gap Area. In Stevens Gap area, you can enjoy a day at the lake with plenty of opportunities to hike, kayak and swim. A relaxing day outdoors awaits you here!
Beavers Bend Wildlife Museum
Are you interested in learning more about Beavers Bend’s native wildlife? Look no further than the Beavers Bend Wildlife Museum. You’ll find an impressive display of information surrounding the native animals of the area. With 11 dioramas, you’ll find out more about the wildlife that calls this area home.
- Address: 6594 N US Hwy 259 Broken Bow, OK, 74728
- Hours: 11 AM to 7 PM
- Features and Amenities: Displays, information about native wildlife
- Cost: $7 for adults, $4 for children
Little River National Wildlife Area
Although the Little River National Wildlife Area is not a state park, it is worth a visit if you are in the area. The National Wildlife Refuge covers 15,000 acres of forest and wetlands with many recreation opportunities. If you are a birder, then you’ll be happy to know that one of the most secretive birds in the country – Swainson’s Warbler- are known to nest. If you aren’t a birder, you’ll still enjoy the many miles of nature trails.
As a free activity, it could be a great way to spend the day in Broken Bow.
- Address: Broken Bow, OK, 74728
- Hours: 7:30 AM to 4 PM
- Features and Amenities: Trails, wildlife, hiking, photography opportunities
- Cost: Free entry
Oklahoma State Parks Parking Pass
As you explore your options for a visit to this area, you’ll find that the Oklahoma State Park system will be at the center of your experience. With that, it is critical to understand the costs of entry into the park and how you can minimize unnecessary costs.
In 2020, the Oklahoma State Park system decided to start charging for parking at its many state parks. The goal of this entry cost is to allow the park officials to continue to provide the outstanding amenities and services that visitors love about the parks. Instead of allowing the quality of service drop due to state budget cuts, the park officials have decided to give this a try. Although there will be an entry fee to park at any of the state parks, you’ll find that the cost is not prohibitive.
You’ll find that the cost is a very affordable addition to your trip budget. Plus, the improved facilities and amenities will be well worth the minimal cost. The cost of entry into the state parks is now approximately $10 a day. If you are visiting with an Oklahoma or Oklahoma tribal license plate, you will receive a 20% discount on the parking rates With that, your cost would only be $8 per day. If you are an Oklahoma resident over the age of 62, then you and your spouse can enter the park for free. If you have been certified as totally disabled under state or federal law, you and your spouse will receive a 50% discount.
If you anticipate a longer stay, you can purchase an Oklahoma state park pass at a three day or one-week interval for a discount. Plus, you can purchase an annual pass for $75 as an out of state visitor or $60 as an Oklahoma resident.
You’ll have the option to pay by texting your parking space code to 504504, using the TravelOK.com site to process a payment, the Premium Parking mobile app, or using a physical park payment machine.
Broken Bow Area Parks Wrap up
A visit to the Broken Bow area will be a rewarding experience with many opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the landscape. With several state parks and outdoor experiences, you’ll be able to relax and recharge completely.
Before you leave, consider your activity options and pack for the adventure of your dreams!