exploring Oklahoma: Natural Falls State Park

By Danica Brackett - Staff Writer

    Although Oklahoma is considered a flyover state and it seems there are not many places to visit, there are many hidden gems all around the state. 
    Natural Falls State Park happens to be one of them. 
   This state park is located in Colcord, Oklahoma. It is a part of the Ozark Highland region and is about a three-hour drive from Oklahoma City. 
    The park consists of a 77-foot waterfall, 4.5 miles of hiking trails, picnics tables, catch-and-release fishing and many more outdoor amenities. 
   When entering the park, each car is asked to pay a small fee of $5. 
   Not only is the park a wonderful place to explore, but it is also a great place for families to camp or park their RVs. 
   They even have yurts (a round tent like building) available to rent. 
   Those who decide to stay in a yurt can choose between a four-person yurt that contains a queen-size bed and a futon or a six-person yurt that has two bunk beds, each has a queen mattress and twin mattress. 
   Guests are welcome to bring their bedding or rent some from the park. 
   Each yurt has a dining table, four chairs, a microwave, a mini-fridge, an A/C unit, a ceiling fan and a few other hotel-like features. 
  There are no bathrooms located within the tent. The showers and bathrooms are just a short walk away from the yurt site, but portable bathrooms are located outside each tent for convenience. 
For more information on renting an RV spot or a yurt, visit the park's website. https://www.travelok.com/state-parks/5293 

My Experience: 
   When I visited Natural Falls State Park, I was disappointed. 
   At least I was until I took the time to realize the beauty of the nature that surrounded me. 
   I hiked for miles around the park, enjoying the scenery. 
   The 77-foot waterfall was breathtaking. 
   The water was extremely clear. 
   There was even a dam that you could hike to that created its own smaller waterfall that you could get closer to. 
   The hiking trails are a little narrow and steep but very manageable. 
   Overall, this is an amazing place to explore and I highly suggest bringing your family here.