Chickasaw National Recreation Area
Murray
County
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From the 1986 edition of A Guide to Birding in
Oklahoma published by the Tulsa Audubon Society. This account was partially reviewed and updated in 2007.
"Peaceful Valley of
Rippling Waters". Early American Indian visitors used this statement to
describe this area’s significance. These beautiful words can still be
used today to describe Chickasaw National Recreation Area and its many
resources.
From prehistoric times to
the present, access to the combination of cool water, mineral springs,
cool breezes, shade, and wildlife has created at Chickasaw National
Recreation Area an experience that sets it apart from the surrounding
environment.
The springs and streams of
Chickasaw come from one of the most complex geological and hydrological
features in the United States. These resources have been economically
and environmentally significant throughout the history of the region,
and are valuable for scientific research.
Dating from the public
works era of the 1930's, classic examples of Civilian Conservation Corps
(CCC) architectural craftsmanship and ingenuity--included in one of the
largest and most intact designed cultural landscapes of that
period--blend harmoniously with the natural environment. A trail system
was designed and constructed during this period that meets the needs of
the casual walker as well as the avid exerciser.
The park holds within its
boundaries a vast diversity of natural resources. These unique flora,
fauna, waters, and geological formations have withstood the external
pressures of man made and natural changes. The combination of these
resources has created an area unlike any in the surrounding territory.
Chickasaw lies in a
transition zone where the Eastern deciduous forest and the Western
prairies meet. It has flora and fauna from both environments, and other
flora and fauna specific to such transition areas. The view over
Veterans Lake, especially beautiful at sunset, illustrates this
transition.
The park provides
opportunities to experience a wide range of outdoor
experiences--swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, observing nature,
hunting, camping, and picnicking--reminding us of the rural character in
the history of the American people. It adds measurably to the quality of
life for visitors and area residents.
Chicasaw NRA was established as Sulphur
Springs Reservation in 1902; renamed and redesignated Platt National
Park in 1906 and finally combined with Arbuckle National Recreation Area
and additional lands and renamed and redesignated in 1976.
Mineral springs, streams,
lakes - water has always been the attraction at Chickasaw National
Recreation Area. A visit to the park should start by stopping at the
Travertine Information and Nature Center that sits on top of Travertine
Creek. The Nature Center offers numerous activities, exhibits, dioramas,
as well as live fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds of prey, and an
interactive learning area for people of all ages.
Brisk Hike? Leisurely
stroll? With over 18 miles of trails including a newly constructed
two-mile long paved handicapped trail, Chickasaw National Recreation
Area is sure to have a trail just for you. Along the way you’ll discover
riverbanks graced with Sycamore, willows, and cottonwoods with a mix of
prairie grass, prickly pear cactus and even yucca along the way. Just Up
ahead the cool waters of Little Niagara Waterfall, Travertine Creek and
Rock Creek beckon waders and swimmers. Streams are cold and clear all
year. Rock Creek has a small beach suitable for sunbathing.
Spectacular views await
you on the Bison Pasture Trail. Named for the small herd of Bison,
brought here in 1920 from Yellowstone National Park this trail offers
the very best of views. Bromide Hill rises up 140 feet over the
surrounding terrain and as you climb the hill hardwood trees disappear
into a sea of prairie grass.
Buckhorn Area Trail is one
of the best places to spot wildlife (or signs of their activity)
including armadillos, wild turkeys, and fox squirrels. The lakeshore is
also alive with a number of amphibians, minnows and turtles.
Veterans Lake Trail snakes
around the 67-acre manmade Veterans Lake abundant with wildlife and
wildflowers. Canada geese can be spotted fall and spring using the lake
as a stop over.
Rock Creek Trail is a
hotspot for horseback riders and mountain bikers. Nearly nine miles
round trip across fields, forests, and hills, this trail offers a
variety of terrain anyone can appreciate. Rock fields and creek
crossings create a fun and scenic ride.
Six campgrounds, including
three on the shores of the Lake of the Arbuckles, provide visitors with
a total outdoor experience. All campsites have picnic tables and fire
rings.
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