This past weekend we had a lovely trip to northeast Oklahoma. We were heading east out of Tulsa on Hwy 412 into Arkansas. But on the way, there were a few special places in Oklahoma that we must stop and see! (Yes, my husband was excited! He loves to stop! {wink}) And one of those places is a little jewel hidden in the Ozarks that spill over a little in northeastern Oklahoma.
Tucked right at the Oklahoma/Arkansas border in West Siloam Springs, Oklahoma (Yep, part of Siloam Springs is in Oklahoma!), you will find one of the most peaceful places I’ve seen – Natural Falls State Park. It is a surprise and delight! On your way to Natural Falls, right off Hwy 412, stopping in Chouteau, Oklahoma is a must! I have a hug for the Amish Cheese House located in Chouteau. Check it out in my next post.
Until 1990, the area now called Natural Falls State Park was known as Dripping Springs. It is a beautiful place and worth preserving. Take your family, have a picnic (picnic tables and grills available), enjoy a hike, shop in the gift shop; but, most important, take in the peaceful moments nature affords us. And take in another beautiful and interesting geographical Oklahoma scene! This state is full of them!
Spring is bursting forth in Oklahoma, so we did take advantage of the beautiful weather and took a picnic lunch, walked the grounds enjoying all the Redbud trees and the fresh new green leaves peaking out on all the trees. Then we hiked down the narrow path to the falls, stopping at the overlook to view the 77ft falls from above. What a sight! But keep going until you get to enjoy the full view from below, the coolness on a warm day, the blue-green waters, and the peaceful sounds. You will want to linger awhile because when I got back to the top, I was wishing I had stayed a little longer. The trip back up is a little steep, but worth the effort!
Wish we had a little more time since there are over four miles of hiking trails! There are also places to stay called Yurts if you want to spend the night. Wonderful natural looking-tent type structures. All you need for a great Vaca or Stayca!
