From the grand plateaus at Black Mesa State Park to the cascading waterfalls at Turner Falls, Oklahoma has the most ecosystem diversity per square mile in the nation. However, the state park system remains an underutilized public resource.
Oklahoma State Parks (OSP) director Richard Keithley hopes this will change.
“We would love to see increased usage from the people of the state of Oklahoma,” he says. “Right now, we know that we could grow in that area, and if we grow that area and support, I think it would increase our funds and help us provide even better services.”
Visitation Trends & Quiet Spots
In 2020 and 2021, the OSP system saw record-breaking booms in attendance, attracting more than 11.5 million annual visitors each year. Since then, attendance has hovered around 8–9 million visitors annually.
Although spring and summer are the busiest seasons, inclement weather and increased gas prices have an impact on turnout. Despite those factors, Beaver’s Bend and Lake Murray continue to draw millions of local and out-of-town visitors annually as popular lakeside destinations.
Less-frequented parks are still worth the visit. Located in Woodward County, Alabaster Caverns State Park is home to one of the largest gypsum caves in the world, featuring rare deposits of black alabaster.
The Great Plains State Park, nestled to the east of the Wichita Mountain foothills, also offers an unplugged, one-of-a-kind experience.
“You’ve got a little bit of uniqueness to it, because you can hike the trails through rocky areas and feel like you’re really in the wilderness,” describes Barry Hardaway, the OSP assistant director of operations for western Oklahoma.
Historical & Economic Significance
In addition to wildlife preservation and outdoor recreation, Oklahoma’s state parks are chock-full of history. Originally consisting of seven parks, the park system was a result of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal.
The historic policy led to the employment of 119,000 Oklahomans and the creation of outdoor recreation for working Americans. Over time, Oklahoma’s park system has expanded to include 38 unique parks and preserves, three of which are operated privately.
“The idea was to make sure that parks were within a reasonable distance of all Oklahomans, so they could get outdoors, share it and be part of the recreational opportunities in those communities,” explains Keithley.
The economic impact of those recreational opportunities is substantial. Every year, the state park system generates about $350 million in travel spending, helping support local businesses and jobs – particularly in rural areas.
Park Improvements
State park leaders will continue to invest in visitor experiences that help generate revenue for local communities. However, restoring and replacing outdated infrastructure is the main priority in the coming years.
In June, the Oklahoma Department of Travel and Tourism completed an eight-year project to repair Greenleaf State Park’s water treatment facility, which has improved the overall water quality. Constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, the cabins at Lake Murray are also up for renovations.
Although infrastructure upgrades are underway, visitors are welcome at the parks this summer and all year round.
“This land belongs to the people of Oklahoma, and we’re here to take care of it,” shares Hardaway. “The park systems are so great, and every park is unique in itself. It’s an honor to be able to care for them.”
Featured photo caption: A sunset glows over Lake Eufaula State Park, one of Oklahoma’s many scenic destinations that officials say offer underused opportunities for recreation, tourism and outdoor exploration. Photo courtesy the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department
