Winters in Oklahoma might be chilly, but it doesn’t mean that the Sooner State should be left out of your early 2024 travel bucket list.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway, a weekend in the city, or some adventure time in the great outdoors, Oklahoma has it all and we will help you find the perfect spot.
Read on to explore the 10 best places to visit in Oklahoma in winter 2024.
Lake Hefner
Lake Hefner in Oklahoma City offers a unique winter experience, particularly for those who enjoy outdoor activities in cooler weather. The lake’s surroundings, less crowded in winter, provide a serene setting for hiking and exploring the trails. These trails, with views of the frozen lake and winter wildlife, offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle of city life. The crisp winter air and the often clear, bright days make for ideal conditions to appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Lake Hefner’s trails cater to both casual walkers and more avid hikers, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all who visit during the winter months.
Chickasaw National Recreation Area
As Oklahoma’s oldest National Park, Chickasaw National Recreation Area is a well-liked holiday destination. And even when temperatures drop down, there are plenty of things you can do.
Set off for a hike around its lakes, creeks, and waterfalls, or enjoy some wildlife viewing and mountain biking. What’s more, in winter, the park is less busy than during other seasons, so you will have it pretty much to yourself.
Martin Nature Park
Martin Nature Park, located in Oklahoma City, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park features a diverse network of trails that meander through varied landscapes, offering visitors a chance to explore the local flora and fauna.
Hikers can enjoy scenic views of the park’s woodland, meadow, and aquatic environments, which are especially serene during the quieter winter months. The trails also provide opportunities for wildlife observation, with chances to spot various bird species and other native wildlife.
Black Mesa State Park
Black Mesa State Park is another excellent location for hiking and wildlife viewing. It’s set along the tri-state border with Colorado and New Mexico, so why not spend a day there when traveling to the neighboring states?
You can hike to Oklahoma’s highest point. On your way up, you might spot various birds, including golden eagles, scaled quail, black-billed magpies, and pinyon jays. Bobcats, mountain lions, or mule deer are other species you are likely to come across.
Note that the hike to the top takes about 4 hours, so arrive early enough to avoid staying after dusk.
Tulsa
Tulsa is another favorite destination if you prefer cosmopolitan vibes over spending time outdoors. It boasts beautiful Art Deco architecture, a selection of fine dining venues, and plenty of cultural attractions.
See an exhibition at the breathtaking Philbrook Museum of Art, catch a show at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center or BOK Center, or take your kids to the top-rated Tulsa Zoo. This city can turn your winter holiday into an unforgettable experience.
Lake Eufaula State Park
Are you into fishing? At Lake Eufaula State Park, you can enjoy your favorite hobby even in winter. In its marina, you’ll find the world’s largest indoor heated fishing dock where you can cast a line, relax, and enjoy all the comfort and warmth.
The admission price is reasonable, too. Adults can enter for $5, while kids have it for $3.
Turner Falls
Turner Falls in the Arbuckle Mountains is another spot where you can fish in winter. Your seat might not be heated but you can take home up to 4 beautiful trouts.
Not a fan of fishing? No worries. You can still hike its trails and enjoy views of the largest waterfall in the state. If the temperatures drop well below, it might be frozen. To see this spectacle, we recommend you plan your visit ahead.
Clinton Water Zoo
Would you like to have some fun in the water but don’t want to wait until summer? The Indoor Water Park in Clinton has 83 degrees all year around and with the abundance of attractions, it will please every member of the family.
Water slides, fountains, a multi-level playground, and a lazy river, that’s Clinton Water Zoo. You can either come for an afternoon or stay overnight, there are various lodging options in the proximity of the park.
Spending the Weekend at Winter Cabin
Spending a winter weekend in a mountain cabin in Oklahoma offers a serene and picturesque experience. In the heart of the state’s scenic beauty, areas like the Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow provide cozy cabin options nestled amidst tall pines and rugged mountains.
This region is renowned for its beautiful nature, cozy cabin rentals and activities like hiking, fishing, and bird watching. Another notable destination is the Ouachita Mountains, where cabins offer stunning views and opportunities for seclusion and relaxation amidst snow-covered landscapes.
Oklahoma City
Some places get sleepy in winter. But not Oklahoma City! Strap on your skates at Edmond or Devon Ice Rink, get to know the iconic cowboy culture at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, or watch eagles at Arcadia Lakes. There is simply something for everyone at OKC.
Oklahoma City is also home to several breweries. Some of the most beloved ones are Stonecloud Brewing Company, Anthem Brewing Company, and Angry Scotsman Brewing. You can either have a pint or two or learn a bit more about the local craft beer scene on a tour.
