Explore Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa is a bustling metropolis in northeastern Oklahoma and the county seat of Tulsa County. The city, which is currently the second-largest city in the state by population, was settled between 1828 and 1836 by the Creek Native American tribe. They established a small settlement called Tallasi, which means "old town" in the Creek language. The Native Americans in the area were relocated after the Civil War, and the city of Tulsa was officially incorporated on January 18, 1898. The first mayor of Tulsa was Edward Calkins. Oil was soon discovered in the area, and between 1901 and 1930, the population of Tulsa shot up to over 140,000.

As of 2022, Tulsa is home to approximately 415,000 people and is known for its delicious barbecue, performing arts scene, and Art Deco architecture. While in town, visit the Tulsa Performing Arts Center to attend a ballet, opera, or theatrical performance. You could also explore the Tulsa Arts District, where you'll find a variety of studios, shops, and small theaters. Another popular area is the Blue Dome District, which boasts quite a few galleries, restaurants, and alternative shops to check out.

During your visit, you may want to explore Tulsa's fascinating museums. A few favorite options include the Gilcrease Museum, the Woody Guthrie Center, and the Philbrook Museum of Art. If you're in town with the whole family, consider observing the amazing creatures at the Tulsa Zoo or catching a minor league baseball game at ONEOK Field. You should also take time to stop by the iconic Golden Driller statue, which represents Tulsa's rich history in the oil industry.

When you're ready for some fresh air, spend an afternoon hiking or playing basketball at Tulsa's Riverfront Park. Once you've worked up an appetite, consider heading to 1907 Barbecue or Monty's BBQ for a delicious meal.

Campgrounds Near Tulsa, Oklahoma

If you're planning a trip to the Tulsa area, you could stay at the Warrior RV Park, which features 61 full-hookup RV campsites for $35 per night or $175 per week. The campground also offers propane, free Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities. Although the park doesn't offer anything too fancy, it does provide a peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained campsites.

Canyon Creek RV Park is another top-notch camping option around Tulsa. You can stay in one of their 26 full-hookup RV campsites for $35 per night. The campground, which offers free Wi-Fi and cable television, is located about 10 minutes from downtown Tulsa. In addition, there are several nearby shops, and the Osage Casino is only a few minutes away.

If you want to be as close as possible to the many attractions of Tulsa, you may want to stay at the Expo Square RV Park. The park boasts 252 full-hookup RV campsites, which are available for $40 per night. The campground is attached to Tulsa Expo Square and has satellite television and free Wi-Fi for its guests.

State Parks Near Tulsa, Oklahoma

Osage Hills State Park is a peaceful hidden getaway in Pawhuska, Oklahoma. The park lies in the middle of the area known as Osage Nation, and it's a lovely destination for various types of outdoor recreation. If you're a wildlife enthusiast, you could explore the local trails and observe the white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and buffalo that roam the area. You could also head to Lookout Lake to enjoy a day of boating and cast your fishing line for catfish, sunfish, crappie, and bass.

Sequoyah State Park covers 2,200 acres of land on a peninsula that juts into the sizable Fort Gibson Lake. The large reservoir is known as one of the best fishing destinations in the state, and the surrounding forests are revered for their lush, beautiful trees and other vegetation. In addition to fishing, visitors can use Fort Gibson Lake for boating, kayaking, canoeing, and waterskiing, and there are two protected swimming beaches. Alternatively, there are 19 miles of trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and viewing wildlife.

Arrowhead State Park is a peaceful nature area on Lake Eufaula in Canadian, Oklahoma. The vast reservoir is the largest man-made lake in the Midwest, and it's a popular spot for fishing, boating, and watersports. If you cast your line, you may reel in a few white bass, channel catfish, crappie, or sunfish. The large lake also features a boat ramp and a dedicated swimming area, but if you'd rather stay dry, you could go for a pleasant hike along Outlaw Nature Trail.

National Sites Near Tulsa, Oklahoma

If you find yourself near Oklahoma City, make a point to stop by Oklahoma City National Memorial. The memorial is dedicated to the victims of the bombing that took place in the city in 1995. You will also want to visit Survivor Tree, which was planted around 1920. The tree was severely damaged in the bombing, but it didn't die and continues to flourish today. You can also stop by the Field of Empty Chairs and Survivors Wall, and you may want to spend a couple of hours exploring the nearby Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum.

Located near the town of Diamond, Missouri, George Washington Carver National Monument is dedicated to the fascinating life of George Washington Carver. Carver was a botanist, educator, and humanitarian. There's also a visitor center where you can check out a variety of interactive exhibits and watch a documentary about his life. Before you leave, stop by the garden where Carver grew peanuts and observed how they grew and changed over time.

Chickasaw National Recreation Area, located in southern Oklahoma, was originally the site of Platt National Park and Arbuckle Recreation Area. In 1976, the two parks were combined to form Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Comprising 9,888 acres, the park features gentle streams, forested hills, beautiful lakes, and natural springs. Visitors can partake in fishing, swimming, hiking, biking, and picnicking in the scenic area.

National Forests Near Tulsa, Oklahoma

Ouachita National Forest is known for being one of the country's oldest and largest national forests. Covering the majestic Ouachita Mountains, the forest provides excellent opportunities for hunting, remote camping, and scenic driving. Visitors can also enjoy activities like fishing, swimming, and boating in many of the forest's lakes and rivers. You'll find a great selection of campgrounds and hiking trails throughout the 1.6-million-acre forest.

Ozark and St. Francis National Forests are located in northwestern Arkansas and cover just over 1 million acres. The forests are most known for the fascinating opportunities for caving, and when you visit, you can also enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, and scenic driving. The forests are home to many beautiful nature trails, and a few of the ones most worth exploring are North Sycamore Creek Trail, Huckleberry Mountain Trail, and Alum Cove Natural Bridge Trail.

If you make your way to southern Missouri, you can visit Mark Twain National Forest, which is considered one of the country's most unique national forests. The entire forest, which is divided into nine separate sections of land, is located entirely within the boundaries of the Ozarks. The area is home to many trees, birds, fish, and other wildlife species, providing adventurous visitors with excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. If you're looking to go hiking in the area, consider visiting the beautiful Council Bluff Lake Trail or the challenging Taum Sauk Section of the Ozark Trail.