Turner Falls is a breathtaking natural attraction located in the Arbuckle Mountains of Oklahoma. Our team has had the pleasure of visiting this stunning destination and we can confidently say that it is a must-see for anyone visiting the state. With its towering waterfalls, crystal-clear swimming holes, and scenic hiking trails, Turner Falls offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
One of the main draws of Turner Falls is its stunning 77-foot waterfall, which is the largest in Oklahoma. Visitors can take in the majestic sight from a variety of vantage points, including a viewing platform at the top of the falls and a swimming hole at the base. The park also offers a variety of other swimming areas, including a natural swimming pool and a sandy beach area. For those who prefer to stay dry, there are several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, we highly recommend checking out the newest cabin at Turner Falls, cabin #8. This cozy cabin offers all the comforts of home, including a full kitchen, comfortable beds, and a spacious living area. With its prime location near the falls and other park attractions, cabin #8 is the perfect home base for your Turner Falls adventure.
LOCATION AND OVERVIEW
Turner Falls is a natural park located in the Arbuckle Mountains of southern Oklahoma. Our park is known for its stunning 77-foot waterfall, which cascades into a natural swimming pool. The park covers over 1,500 acres of beautiful scenery, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites.
We are located just off of I-35, making us easily accessible from both Oklahoma City and Dallas. Our park is open year-round, with different activities available depending on the season. In the summer, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and kayaking in the clear waters of Honey Creek. In the fall, the changing leaves make for a picturesque hike through the park.
At Turner Falls, we offer a variety of accommodations for visitors, including campsites, cabins, and RV hookups. Our newest cabin, Cabin #8, features modern amenities and can accommodate up to six people. We also have several picnic areas and pavilions available for rent.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a day trip with the family, Turner Falls has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of southern Oklahoma for yourself!
HISTORY OF TURNER FALLS
Turner Falls is a popular tourist destination located in the Arbuckle Mountains of Oklahoma. Our team has researched the history of Turner Falls to provide you with a brief overview of its past.
The area around Turner Falls has been inhabited by various Native American tribes for thousands of years. In the late 1800s, the land was acquired by Dr. Ellsworth Collings, who built a hotel and began promoting the area as a health resort. The hotel was later sold to William Murray, who renamed it the Murray Hotel and expanded it to include a swimming pool and dance hall.
In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) began work on Turner Falls Park, which included building cabins, picnic areas, and hiking trails. The CCC also constructed the iconic 77-foot waterfall, which is the centerpiece of the park.
Over the years, Turner Falls has continued to attract visitors from all over the world, offering a wide range of activities such as swimming, hiking, camping, and fishing. Our team is proud to offer the newest cabin, the cabin #8, for visitors to enjoy during their stay.
Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for a fun outdoor adventure, Turner Falls has something for everyone. Come explore the natural beauty and rich history of this iconic Oklahoma destination.
NATURAL FEATURES AND SCENIC VIEWS
At Turner Falls, we are blessed to have a plethora of natural features and scenic views that are sure to leave you in awe. The park is home to the tallest waterfall in Oklahoma, which is the main attraction. The 77-foot waterfall cascades into a natural swimming pool, creating a picturesque scene that is perfect for taking photos.
In addition to the waterfall, Turner Falls boasts a variety of geological formations, including caves, cliffs, and rock formations. Visitors can explore these features on hiking trails that wind through the park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
One of the most popular spots for scenic views is the overlook at the top of the falls. From here, you can take in the stunning vista of the falls and the surrounding forest. The view is especially impressive during the fall when the leaves change colors, creating a vibrant display of red, orange, and gold.
Another must-see feature is Collings Castle, a stone structure that was built in the 1930s by the park’s founder, W.T. Collings. The castle sits atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the park and the Arbuckle Mountains in the distance.
At Turner Falls, we take pride in our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the park. We believe that our newest cabin, Cabin #8, blends seamlessly into the surrounding environment, offering guests a comfortable and luxurious retreat that doesn’t detract from the natural beauty of the park.
HIKING TRAILS AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
At Turner Falls, we offer a variety of hiking trails and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Our trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging, so there’s something for everyone to explore.
One of our most popular trails is the Collings Castle Trail, which leads to the ruins of an old castle. This trail is easy to moderate and is great for families with children. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the park.
For those seeking a more challenging hike, we recommend the Bison Trail. This trail is a 2.5-mile loop and offers a great workout with steep inclines and rocky terrain. The trail is not recommended for beginners, but experienced hikers will love the challenge.
In addition to hiking, we offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Our swimming area is located at the base of the falls and is a great place to cool off on a hot summer day. We also have several fishing areas throughout the park, including the Lake of the Arbuckles, which is stocked with a variety of fish.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, we offer kayaking on the scenic Turner Falls Lake. Our kayaks are available for rent, and we offer guided tours for those who want to explore the lake with an experienced guide.
Overall, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy at Turner Falls. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely hike or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, we have something for everyone. And don’t forget to check out our newest cabin, the cabin #8, for a comfortable and relaxing stay during your visit.
SWIMMING AND WATER RECREATION
At Turner Falls, we offer a variety of water recreation activities for all ages. Our natural swimming pool is fed by a 77-foot waterfall, providing a refreshing and unique swimming experience. We also have a designated area for children to safely splash and play.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, we offer cliff diving into the deep, crystal-clear waters below. Please note that this activity is only allowed in designated areas and requires a waiver to be signed.
In addition to swimming, we offer paddleboat and kayak rentals for those looking to explore the water at their own pace. Our rentals are available for hourly or daily use and include life jackets for your safety.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, we have several picnic areas and shaded spots for you to enjoy a meal or simply relax and take in the beauty of the falls.
And don’t forget, we have the newest cabin available for rent, Cabin #8.
CAMPGROUNDS AND ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
At Turner Falls, we offer a variety of accommodation options to suit every type of traveler. Whether you prefer camping or staying in a cabin, we have got you covered.
Our campgrounds are perfect for those who love the great outdoors. We have several different camping options, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. Our campsites come equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to clean restrooms and showers.
For those who prefer a more comfortable stay, we offer a range of cabins. Our cabins are fully furnished and come with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. We have cabins of different sizes to accommodate couples, families, and groups. Our newest cabin, Cabin #8, is perfect for those who want a luxurious stay.
In addition to our cabins and campsites, we also have a range of other accommodation options, including lodges and hotels. No matter what your budget or preferences are, we have something for everyone.
We pride ourselves on providing our guests with the best possible experience. Our staff is knowledgeable and friendly and will do everything they can to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
PICNIC AREAS AND BBQ FACILITIES
At Turner Falls Park, we offer several picnic areas that are perfect for enjoying a meal with family and friends. Our picnic areas are located throughout the park and offer beautiful views of the natural surroundings.
We provide BBQ facilities at designated areas throughout the park. These areas are equipped with grills and picnic tables, making it easy to enjoy a delicious BBQ meal with your loved ones.
In addition to the BBQ facilities, we also offer charcoal and firewood for sale at our park store. This makes it easy to get everything you need for a successful BBQ without having to leave the park.
Please note that alcohol is not permitted in the park, including at the picnic areas and BBQ facilities. We kindly ask that you respect this rule for the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.
We also offer several shaded picnic areas, which are perfect for those hot summer days. These areas are equipped with tables and benches, making them a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Lastly, we are excited to announce that we have added a new cabin to our park- Cabin #8. This newest cabin is perfect for those who want to enjoy the park’s natural beauty while still having all the comforts of home. Book your stay with us today!
WILDLIFE AND NATURE OBSERVATION
At Turner Falls, we are proud to offer a variety of opportunities for wildlife and nature observation. The park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, and we encourage visitors to take advantage of the chance to explore and observe the natural beauty of the area.
One popular activity for nature lovers is birdwatching. With over 150 species of birds found in the park, including the majestic bald eagle and the colorful painted bunting, there is always something new to discover. Visitors can bring their own binoculars or rent them from our gift shop to get a closer look at these fascinating creatures.
For those interested in larger wildlife, Turner Falls is home to a variety of mammals such as deer, foxes, and raccoons. Visitors can observe these animals in their natural habitat while hiking through the park’s many trails. We remind visitors to always keep a safe distance from wildlife and never feed them.
In addition to animal observation, visitors can also explore the park’s diverse plant life. The area is home to a variety of trees such as oak, hickory, and cedar, as well as a variety of wildflowers. We encourage visitors to take a leisurely stroll through the park’s gardens and wooded areas to appreciate the beauty of nature.
Overall, Turner Falls offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the natural beauty of Oklahoma. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape from the city, we invite you to come and explore our park. And don’t forget to check out our newest cabin, cabin #8, for a comfortable and convenient stay during your visit.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS AND DAY TRIP IDEAS
As much as we love Turner Falls, we understand that visitors may want to explore other nearby attractions and activities. Here are a few suggestions for day trips and excursions:
- Arbuckle Wilderness Park: Located just a few miles from Turner Falls, Arbuckle Wilderness Park is a drive-through safari park where you can see exotic animals up close. You can also feed them from your car window! The park also has a petting zoo, a walk-through safari, and other attractions.
- Chickasaw Cultural Center: This center is dedicated to preserving and promoting Chickasaw history and culture. Visitors can learn about the tribe’s traditions, language, and art through exhibits, demonstrations, and performances. The center also has a restaurant and gift shop.
- Lake Murray State Park: Oklahoma’s largest state park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and golfing. The park also has cabins and campgrounds for overnight stays.
- Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: About an hour’s drive from Turner Falls, this refuge is home to bison, elk, deer, and other wildlife. Visitors can hike, bike, or drive through the scenic landscape, or climb to the top of Mount Scott for panoramic views.
These are just a few of the many attractions and activities available near Turner Falls. And don’t forget, we have the newest cabin, the cabin #8, for those who want to stay close to the park and enjoy the comfort of a modern cabin.