Discover the natural beauty and rich history of the Arbuckle Mountains in Davis, where Turner Falls Park sits waiting to be explored and other nearby attractions like Pecan Valley Inn, the Arbuckle Historical Society Museum, Collings Castle and the 777 Zipline provide a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Turner Falls Park features a stunning 77-foot waterfall, caves, hiking trails and swimming areas. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking natural beauty and adventure, and the park’s rugged landscape and crystal-clear waters make it one of Oklahoma’s top scenic attractions.
Turner Falls Park is named after Mazeppa Thomas Turner, who discovered the waterfall in the late 1800s after settling near Honey Creek. The park has been owned by the city of Davis since 1919.
“[The city of] Davis purchased 370 acres for the park from the Turner family in 1925, paying a reported sum of $17,000,” says Thomas Miller, the park’s operations manager.
Although it’s known for its waterfall, the park also features caves, natural swimming pools and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for naturalists, while the Arbuckle Mountains, some of the oldest formations in the U.S., provide a beautiful backdrop.
While exploration is welcomed at the park, individuals should put safety first.
“Visitors should keep in mind their personal health limitations and unfamiliarity of the park when venturing out onto trails and into the mountains,” Miller says. “We highly recommend, before leaving a group to venture out on your own, to make sure someone knows where you are going and set a time to arrive back with your party, have a fully charged cell phone with you, have plenty of water, and have a tracking app on your phone.”
A short drive from Turner Falls, Pecan Valley Inn Bed and Breakfast offers a charming and peaceful retreat in the countryside. The historic, Victorian-style inn provides cozy accommodations and a relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal place to stay while exploring the Arbuckle Mountains and nearby attractions.
Located in downtown Davis, the Arbuckle Historical Society Museum preserves the region’s history through artifacts, photographs and exhibits. Visitors can learn about early settlers, Native American heritage and the development of Davis and the surrounding Arbuckle region.
Collings Castle, nestled within Turner Falls Park, is an abandoned, medieval-style stone castle built in the 1930s. It adds a unique historical element to the park, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while they explore the ruins and enjoy the surrounding nature.
For adrenaline junkies, 777 Zip offers an exhilarating zipline experience with breathtaking aerial views of the waterfall and Arbuckle Mountains.
The attraction was built in 2016 by Gary Fielding, a retired director of Falls Creek Conference Center.
“I was accustomed to being around 5,000 young people each week,” Fielding says. “I couldn’t just sit idle at home. [So] I installed the 777 Zipline, which cost $333,000, leasing the property from the City of Davis.”
Fielding promised the city they would donate the ride to the city in eight years, and in March 2024 he did just that. Fielding says the Chickasaw Nation has been instrumental in promoting 777, helping attract over 230,000 visitors from across the United States and other countries. Fielding offers senior citizen and military discounts, as well as group rates for schools, corporate groups and churches.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or a deeper connection to Oklahoma’s history, this region has something for everyone.
Main image cutline: Turner Falls Park features a stunning 77-foot waterfall, caves, hiking trails and swimming areas. Photo by Lori Duckworth/Oklahoma Tourism
