Great Plains State Park

Found in southwestern Oklahoma, Great Plains State Park offers a diverse landscape while providing guests with a full list of activities to pick from. Ample views of the Witchita Mountains are peppered throughout the park, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that attracts guests throughout the year. 

Due to its proximity to the Wichita Mountains, Great Plains State Park contains several miles of hiking and cycling trails that provide a challenging, sloping landscape to ride through or explore on foot. These trails are quite challenging but include enough pieces of park history to stay interesting even during repeat visits. 

While on these trails you'll be able to see the ruins of the 100-year old mine that operated in the area until 1938. Built in 1904, Gold Bells Mill can be found on the northeast side of the park. Surrounding this area is the ghost town of Wildman, which initially sprung up around the once-booming mine and mill complex. 

Park authorities would like to remind guests that the fields around the abandoned mineshaft are densely populated with rattlesnakes, so make sure to keep an eye out as you explore. Canines are welcome on the hiking trails provided they stay on a 6-foot leash or shorter, but are barred from entering any of these indoor structures. 

Also nestled inside of the gorgeous Great Plains State Park is the Tom Steed Lake, which provides over 30 miles of pristine shoreline to wander and enjoy. Swimming is a favorite past time on the lake, with two swimming areas placed conveniently near the entrance. 

Three total boat ramps are available for both motorized and non-motorized vessels. Waterskiing and jet skiing are both permitted on Tom Steed Lake as well, provided you come with the proper registration for these high-speed activities. Canines are be let off leash on this beach, granted they don't bother other guests and are kept clear of the public swimming areas.