Best Small Towns To Visit In Oklahoma On Your Next Trip
Oklahoma, a state known for its rich cultural history and diverse landscapes, offers an array of charming small towns that are perfect for a peaceful getaway. In this blog, we’ll explore five of these hidden gems, each boasting unique attractions and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a road trip or a leisurely vacation, these towns are must-visits. Plus, for the RV enthusiasts, we’ll highlight some great campgrounds in or near each town.
Five Amazing Small Towns To Visit In Oklahoma
Medicine Park
Medicine Park, Oklahoma’s first resort town, is a hidden treasure nestled in the Wichita Mountains. With its unique cobblestone streets and quaint architecture, this town takes you back in time. The area’s history is rich with Native American culture and early 20th-century allure.
This picturesque town is not just about its charming aesthetics; it’s also a gateway to some of Oklahoma’s most stunning natural landscapes. The nearby Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you can embark on hiking trails that range from leisurely walks to challenging treks, offering panoramic views and encounters with wildlife like bison and longhorn cattle. Birdwatchers and nature photographers will find this area a paradise.
The town itself is home to charming boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes. The Medicine Park Aquarium and Natural Sciences Center is another must-visit, offering an educational and interactive experience for all ages. It highlights Oklahoma’s native aquatic life and other fascinating wildlife.
Where To Stay: The Medicine Park RV Park
For RV travelers, Medicine Park RV Park is the perfect place to stay. It’s just a stone’s throw away from all the attractions Medicine Park has to offer. The park provides guests with full hookups, including electricity, water, and sewer services. Amenities such as Wi-Fi and laundry facilities add to the convenience, ensuring a comfortable stay. The RV park is also pet-friendly, so your furry friends can join in on the adventure.
Guthrie
Guthrie, Oklahoma, is a town where history is not just remembered but vividly alive. As the first state capital of Oklahoma, Guthrie is a living museum of Victorian-era elegance. The town’s historic district, with more than 2,000 buildings, is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, offering a unique backdrop for visitors.
Walking through Guthrie’s streets is like stepping back into the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town’s preservation efforts have ensured that many buildings remain as they were over a century ago. The architecture here is a mix of Gothic, Victorian, and Queen Anne styles, making it a fantastic destination for architecture enthusiasts.
One of the town’s highlights is the Scottish Rite Masonic Temple, an imposing structure known for its architectural grandeur and intricate interior design. The Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library offer insights into the state’s pioneer history, with engaging exhibits that tell the story of Oklahoma’s formation and Guthrie’s vital role in it.
Where To Stay: Cedar Valley RV Park
Just a few miles outside Guthrie, Cedar Valley RV Park provides the perfect blend of accessibility and tranquility. This RV park offers not just full hookups but also the luxury of a golf course right next door. Imagine waking up to a serene morning and stepping out to enjoy a round of golf amidst the picturesque landscape of central Oklahoma.
Cedar Valley RV Park caters to all types of RVs, with spacious sites and essential amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a pet-friendly environment. The park’s location also makes it convenient for day trips into Guthrie or exploring the nearby attractions.
Eufaula
Eufaula, Oklahoma, is a serene town known for its centerpiece, Lake Eufaula, Oklahoma’s largest lake with 600 miles of shoreline. This lake town is a haven for anglers, boaters, and nature lovers. With its clear waters, Lake Eufaula is ideal for fishing, boasting a rich population of bass, catfish, and crappie. The lake’s marinas offer boat rentals and supplies, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a day on the water.
Apart from water activities, Eufaula’s charm lies in its peaceful streets lined with historic homes and buildings. The town’s history can be explored at the Eufaula Area Museum, housed in the old Kansas City Southern Railroad Depot. The museum presents a collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the region’s Native American history, pioneer life, and the development of the town.
Downtown Eufaula is a delightful mix of old and new, with antique shops, boutiques, and local dining options. The town hosts several annual events, such as the Whole Hawg Days Festival and the Lake Eufaula Art Festival, which bring together the community and visitors for days filled with fun, food, and art.
Where To Stay: Lake Eufaula Campground
Located on the shores of Lake Eufaula, the Lake Eufaula Campground is the perfect spot for RV travelers seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. This campground offers prime lakefront RV sites, allowing guests to wake up to stunning views of the lake. With facilities such as full hookups, boat ramps, and fishing docks, it caters to all the needs of an RV enthusiast.
Broken Bow
Broken Bow, nestled in the southeastern corner of Oklahoma, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This quaint town, adjacent to Beavers Bend State Park and the Mountain Fork River, is an outdoor paradise. The area is renowned for its lush forests, clear lakes, and rich biodiversity, making it a perfect destination for all seasons.
At Beavers Bend State Park, visitors can indulge in a variety of activities. Hiking enthusiasts will find numerous trails winding through the dense forest, offering a chance to spot local wildlife. The park is also a popular spot for fishing, with the Lower Mountain Fork River providing some of the best trout fishing in the region. Kayaking and canoeing on the river offer a peaceful yet exhilarating experience, with the crystal-clear water reflecting the sky and trees.
Broken Bow Lake is a jewel of the area, ideal for boating, water skiing, and swimming. The deep, clear water of the lake, surrounded by the forested hills of the Ouachita Mountains, creates a picturesque setting for water activities or simply relaxing on the shore.
Where To Stay: Hochatown RV Park
Just a short drive from the heart of Broken Bow, Hochatown RV Park is a convenient and comfortable place for RV travelers. This RV park offers spacious sites with full hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature. The park offers modern amenities, including Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a pet-friendly environment.
The location of Hochatown RV Park is ideal for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park. It’s close enough to the town to enjoy its amenities but far enough to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
Pawhuska
Pawhuska, situated in the heart of Osage County, Oklahoma, is a town rich in history and culture. This charming community, offers a unique blend of Native American heritage and Western American culture. It’s a place where the past is not only preserved but also celebrated.
One of the town’s most significant attractions is The Osage Nation Museum. Established in 1938, it’s the oldest tribally owned museum in the United States. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history, art, and culture of the Osage Nation, showcasing an array of artifacts, historical photographs, and contemporary art.
The town’s architecture reflects its vibrant history, with buildings dating back to the early 1900s. Historic structures, including the iconic Triangle Building and the Immaculate Conception Church, line the downtown area.
Where To Stay: Settle In RV Park
Settle In RV Park is a convenient and welcoming place for visitors traveling by RV. Located near the heart of the town, the park offers easy access to Pawhuska’s main attractions, including The Pioneer Woman’s Mercantile and the Osage Nation Museum. The park provides full hookups and essential amenities like Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and connected stay.
The RV park’s friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration. Its location also allows for quick trips to the surrounding natural areas. This includes the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, where visitors can enjoy the unique experience of seeing bison in their natural habitat.
Conclusion
Each of these towns showcases the charm and diversity of Oklahoma, offering visitors a chance to experience local culture, history, and natural beauty. So pack your bags and RV rental and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Oklahoma’s enchanting small towns!