Oklahoma might surprise you when it comes to waterfalls. Although it might not have the gigantic waterfalls of the Rockies, this state delivers beautiful, relaxing, and incredibly scenic sets of falls. From waterfalls nestled in the woods to popular swimming holes, Oklahoma has a great variety of waterfalls to explore.
Top 10 Waterfalls in Oklahoma
Visiting Waterfalls in Oklahoma
Natural Falls
Natural Falls is a waterfall that is nestled in the eastern Ozarks of Oklahoma near the Arkansas border. Located in Natural Falls State Park, this waterfall is 77-feet tall and cascades through the rocks until it plunges into a pool. There are viewing platforms both at the top and bottom of the waterfall, but in order to protect the local plant life, swimming and hiking up to the falls is not permitted.
And if you’re wondering why the surrounding scenery looks so familiar, the park was used for many scenes in the 1974 movie “Where the Red Fern Grows”.
Things to do near Natural Falls
Kayakers will want to check out Siloam Springs Kayak Park along the Illinois River. This part of the river was engineered with multiple rapids for kayakers to enjoy. Just remember to bring your own kayak, as the park doesn’t rent them.
Of course, you’ll also want to explore the state park!
Cache Creek
Located in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is a waterfall that you’ll have to hike to see. Cache Creek flows through a gorge in the canyon and creates a series of cascading waterfalls. You can follow the Narrows Trail, a moderate 2.7-mile out and back trail that will take you past the falls.
Things to do near Cache Creek
This waterfall can be found in the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge, about 30 minutes northwest of Lawton. Oklahoma City is about 100 miles to the northeast. You can also head to another waterfall on our list, Post Oak Falls.
Post Oak Falls
Post Oak Falls is another waterfall where you’ll have to take a bit of a hike to see it. Located near Indiahoma, this waterfall can be reached by the Post Oak Falls Trail, a 1.5 mile out and back trail through rocky boulders that is rated moderate. This is a smaller waterfall that might not always be running due to low water, so the best time to see it is after a rainfall or in spring.
Things to do near Post Oak Falls
This waterfall is also located in the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge in the southwestern corner of the state. Natural Arch and Elk Mountain are also good landmarks to check out while you’re in the area, as well as the hike to Cache Creek waterfall.
Beavers Bend
There are several great waterfalls in the Broken Bow area of Oklahoma. Beavers Bend State Park is home to one of those, Presbyterian Falls. Located on the Lower Mountain Fork River, you can hike down to the river or rent kayaks to get a closer view.
Things to do near Beavers Bend State Park
Explore the rest of this popular state park and take advantage of the outdoor activities. The David Boren Trail meanders through the park for 26 miles. Or head to Broken Bow Lake and Mountain Fork River, where there are many spots for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Bricktown Falls
So Bricktown Falls might be a manmade waterfall, but it’s worth checking out. This waterfall is located along the Bricktown Canal in Oklahoma City. It’s incredibly easy to get to, as you can just park your car and walk to see it. But the best way to view this waterfall is by taking a narrated water taxi down the canal. You’ll pass right by the falls while learning more about the history of the region.
Things to do near Bricktown Falls
You’re right in the Bricktown area of Oklahoma City, so be sure to explore a bit before heading out on your next adventure.
Medicine Park Falls
Medicine Creek is a historic resort town that began in the 1920s as a swimming hole near Medicine Creek. Today you can see the waterfall on Bath Lake in Medicine Park, which is a local swimming hole surrounded by beautiful scenery. Relax and enjoy the waterfall or jump in and go for a swim!
Things to do near Medicine Park Falls
West of Medicine Park Falls is Lake Lawtonka where you can swim, water ski, and boat. Mount Scott Observation Area is also nearby where you can hike to see sweeping views of the surrounding area. And you’re just east of Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge if you want to hike to several other waterfalls on our list.
Roman Nose State Park
There’s plenty to do in Roman Nose State Park, including hiking the Three Springs Trail to three small waterfalls. Big Spring waterfall cascades into a small cave, while the other two waterfalls, Middle Spring and Little Spring cascade through the woods and offer beautiful opportunities for photos. Hike the trail to see all three!
Things to do near Roman Nose State Park
While you’re in the park, take advantage of all the great outdoor opportunities like hiking, mountain biking, fishing, boating, and even golfing. There’s camping in and around the park so you can plan to stay for a few days.
Heavener Runestone Park
Heavener Runestone Park is a great place to experience history, beautiful scenery, and a waterfall. This former state park was created around a Swedish runestone found in the 1920s. The stone is thought to be carved by Viking explorers around the year 1000. Other people think the runes weren’t carved until the 1700s, but either way, the stone is worth seeing.
Take the short 0.2 mile hike to the runestone and the waterfall that pours off a cliff into a fountain. It’s a beautiful hike, a fun bit of history, and a lovely waterfall all easily fit into an afternoon of adventuring.
Things to do near Heavener Runestone Park
The park is just outside the town of Heavener on the eastern border of Oklahoma. And you’re about 80 miles north of Broken Bow. You’re also right off the Talimena National Scenic Byway, a 54 mile drive across southeast Oklahoma with incredible views.
The Best Oklahoma Waterfalls for RVers
Turner Falls
The waterfall is a great place for the entire family to visit. Located in Turner Falls Park, this waterfall is not only surrounded by swimming areas, hiking trails, and natural caves, but it’s also the largest waterfall in Oklahoma. Turner Falls is 77 feet tall and plunges over a large rock into a pool that makes a fantastic natural swimming area.
There’s a fee to enter, but once you’re inside the park you can swim, hike, explore, and enjoy views of the waterfall.
Why this Waterfall is Perfect for RVers
The park is home to a wonderful RV campground. This means you can park right in the middle of all the beauty and really enjoy the expereince.
Things to do near Turner Falls
This park is located in the Arbuckle Mountains, which is a unique and impressive geological feature for the area. Oklahoma City is 80 miles to the north, and Dallas is 130 miles to the south.
Little Niagara
If you’re looking for a waterfall and a swimming hole, head to Little Niagara in Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Located along the Travertine Creek where it feeds into Little Niagara sits Little Niagara Falls.
At 10 feet tall, it’s not the biggest waterfall in Oklahoma, but the beautiful crystal clear water runs down the falls and into a wide swimming area that is very popular in the summer. The surrounding trees and fauna make for a beautiful backdrop for the falls.
Why this Waterfall is Perfect for RVers
The national recreation area is home to some lovely RV campsites. Call one of these sites home for a few days and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the area.
Things to do near Little Niagara
It’s definitely recommended to explore the rest of Chickasaw National Recreation Area. There are over 20 miles of hiking trails, as well as fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities.
Planning an RV Trip to Oklahoma
There are so many fantastic waterfalls to choose from in Oklahoma, and an RV trip is a great way to explore them. While in the area, make sure to see the best state parks in Oklahoma!
