Black Mesa State Park

For an unfurgettable experience in the Oklahoma Panhandle, be sure to check out the Black Mesa State Park and Nature Preserve! Taking its name from the black lava rock that used to cover the mesa 30 million years ago, this pawsome site is a dream destination for hikers, birders, kayakers, and campers. The best part is, Fido is welcome to tag along, so load up your pup and hit the road!

Situated along the tri-state border with New Mexico and Colorado, the 1,600-acre nature preserve is home to 23 uncommon plants, 8 rare animal species, and the highest point in Oklahoma, which you and your pooch can reach by taking a ruffly 4-hour hike. According to visitors, the trail to the top of the mesa is well-worn and easy to follow, and only becomes challenging in the second quarter as it climbs steadily to the summit. Remember to bring plenty of water for everyone in your pawty, and be prepared for high temperatures in the summer. At the top, nearly 5,000 feet above sea level, you and your doggo will be rewarded with puptacular views of this unique area where the shortgrass prairie and the Rocky Mountains meet. 

Located about 15 miles from the nature preserve is the state park, which contains a campground, trails, boat ramps, and picnic facilities. The state park boasts some of the darkest nighttime skies in the country, making it a pawfect spot for sleeping under the stars. Every year, numerous astronomy enthusiasts flock to the area to stargaze and watch meteor showers.

Wherever your adventure takes you, always keep your canine BFF on a 10-foot leash and clean up after them. Supervise them at all times and make sure they leave the park's wildlife alone. 

A doggone good time awaits you and Fido at the Black Mesa State Park and Nature Preserve!