Folklore says that the ancient people called
this place “the Peaceful Valley of Rippling
Waters”.
Here one’s mind may wander back in time when
the early American Indian came to this area to
rest, relax at the water’s edge, and hunt
for food from the abundant wildlife.
Chickasaw
National Recreation Area has
been the setting for generations of traditional
family activity
that represents part of our American heritage.
It adds measurably to the quality of life for
visitors and area residents by providing opportunities
to
experience a wide range of outdoor experiences--swimming,
boating, fishing, hiking, and observing nature,
hunting, camping, and picnicking reminding us
of the rural character in the history of the American
people.
Mineral springs, streams,
lakes - water has
always been the attraction at Chickasaw National
Recreation
Area.
A visit to the park should start by stopping at
the Travertine Information and Nature Center that
sits on top of Travertine Creek. The Nature Center
offers numerous activities, exhibits, dioramas,
as well as live fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds
of prey, and an interactive learning area for people
of all ages.
Brisk Hike? Leisurely
stroll? With over 18 miles of trails including a newly constructed two-mile
long paved handicapped trail, Chickasaw National
Recreation Area is sure to have a trail just for
you. Along the way you’ll discover riverbanks
graced with Sycamore, willows, and cottonwoods
with a mix of prairie grass, prickly pear cactus
and even yucca along the way. Just Up ahead the
cool waters of Little Niagara Waterfall, Travertine
Creek and Rock Creek beckon waders and swimmers.
Streams are cold and clear all year. Rock Creek
has a small beach suitable for sunbathing.
Spectacular views await
you on the Bison Pasture Trail. Named for the small herd of Bison, brought
here in 1920 from Yellowstone National Park this
trail offers the very best of views. Bromide
Hill rises up 140 feet over the surrounding terrain
and as you climb the hill hardwood trees disappear
into a sea of prairie grass.
Buckhorn
Area Trail is one of the best places to spot wildlife (or signs of their activity)
including
armadillos, wild turkeys, and fox squirrels.
The lakeshore is also alive with a number of
amphibians,
minnows and turtles.
Veterans
Lake Trail snakes around the 67-acre manmade Veterans Lake abundant with wildlife
and wildflowers.
Canada geese can be spotted fall and spring
using the lake as a stop over.
Rock Creek
Trail is
a hotspot for horseback riders and mountain bikers. Nearly nine miles
round
trip across fields, forests, and hills, this
trail offers
a variety of terrain anyone can appreciate.
Rock fields and creek crossings create a
fun and scenic
ride.
Six campgrounds, including
three on the shores of the Lake of the Arbuckles,
provide visitors with a total outdoor experience.
All campsites
have picnic tables and fire rings.
Chickasaw National Recreational
Area is popular for boating and Lake of the Arbuckles
is
the main attraction. Whether you like
to fish,
water ski,
canoe, or enjoy recreational boating,
the park offers the perfect setting.
Hunting is allowed in the park within the guidelines
of the state of Oklahoma.
Located between Oklahoma City and Dallas,
Texas in the Arbuckle Mountains of Oklahoma,
Chickasaw
National Recreation Area is one of the
most popular parks in the country with
just over
three million
visitors each year.
For more information please call 580-622-3161
