Off the Beaten Path

If you’re hoping to connect with nature, be taken back in time, or just plan a staycation outside the norm, Oklahoma harbors several one-of-a-kind, local stays to explore.

Owned by Richard and Becky Shelton, the Eufaula Treehouses (aptly named tree-sorts) offer a nostalgic experience perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. 

“We’re definitely way off the beaten path,” says Richard. “You get to just unplug and enjoy nature and enjoy being outdoors.” 

Born and raised in southeast Oklahoma, the Sheltons first got into the travel rental business in 2014. 

“I really enjoy the outdoors, hunting, fishing and camping,” says Richard. “So it was a natural fit.” 

There are three treehouses available, all of which have running water, a bathroom, shower, air conditioning and a firepit. The smallest treehouse can accommodate up to four guests, and the largest sleeps six. 

Only a 20-minute drive from Lake Eufaula, the area abounds with recreational activities and attractions outside your unique stay. Richard says that one of the most rewarding parts of hosting is seeing how families with young children react to the treehouses. 

“To see their excitement,” he says, “that’s always a lot of fun.”

Lounge like a bird in the Birdhouse Cottages in Medicine Park. Situated along a creek, these brightly colored, quaint cottages are located in the center of the historic resort town, allowing guests to travel on foot to many restaurants, shops and parks.

Visitors have long come to Medicine Park for its outdoor recreation. Owners Candace and David McCoy and Rainette Rowland created the birdhouses, recognizing the need to expand lodging options as the city grows. The Birdhouse Cottages have received rave reviews over the years, earning the distinction of a ‘Guest Favorite’ on Airbnb. 

There are four birdhouses available: the Cardinal, the Hummingbird, the Bluebird and the Painted Bunting. Each birdhouse can comfortably sleep two people and includes a mini-fridge, microwave, television, coffee maker and Wi-Fi access. 

Constructed in 1912, the Bradford House is a boutique hotel in OKC embodying Victorian design with a modern twist. The historic house was originally built by the first Oklahoma County Clerk, William Bradford, who hosted many famous guests in his home, including President Jimmy Carter. 

The hotel has since been revamped by interior designer Sarah Kate Little and real estate expert Jason Little. Inspired by their world travels, the couple decorated the space with European antiques and playful splashes of color.

Guests can book one of the 36 suites in the historic home or stay in the modern guesthouse. Onsite, the hotel features luxurious amenities. Its gilded bar offers a selection of spirits, handpicked by the sommelier. For a bite to eat, guests can stop by the hotel’s restaurant for seasonal dishes or the patisserie for fresh coffee and baked goods.

Nestled on 55 acres of land, Cedar Rock Inn is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Tulsa. The historic home was built in 1890 by Creek Nation allottee Tecumseh Perryman. When Sandi Dittmann purchased the home, she spent seven years remodeling it before opening its doors as a bed and breakfast in 2005.

The inn features five suites, ideal for romantic getaways. Its largest suite, the Parkview, includes a marble wet bar, vaulted ceilings, a fireplace and a private jacuzzi. All rooms are furnished with bathrobes and luxury linens, and guests are provided with a three-course breakfast during their stay.

Guests can explore the wilderness and walking trails on the property. On select dates, Cedar Rock Inn hosts public events, bringing the stay to life with live music, picnickers and food trucks.  

Passed through four generations, the Rebel Hill Guest Ranch is a working cattle farm in Antlers that offers a taste of life in the countryside. The ranch features seven rustic cabins, including a converted 1911 passenger train that can sleep up to six people. Situated on the waterfront, the cabins come equipped with grills, picnic tables and firepits. 

Outdoor activities are abundant at Rebel Hill. Visitors can arrange for guided horseback riding, traversing up to 700 acres of land. Visitors can also swim in the ranch’s lakes or pool, go paddle-boating or try a hand at fishing. 

The ranch is home to an array of wildlife, too. With a tortoise habitat, bunny refuge and exotic wildlife park, Rebel Hill offers guests the company of indigenous and exotic creatures as well, such as deer, kangaroos and zebras. 

Don’t just stay by the lake, stay on it in the Lake Murray Floating Cabins. 

“You can literally walk outside your front door and cast a rod in the water,” says Wendy Castleman, who has been the office manager for the cabins since 2008. 

Owners Kim and James Thompson got the idea for the floating cabins after offering a houseboat cruise. Since opening the lodging in 1999, business has grown, with the Ardmore-based rentals booking up to 11 months in advance. 

“To see the repeat business year after year and the family connections – it’s definitely my favorite part of the job,” says Castleman. 

All cabins include kitchenware, bedding, air conditioning and cable television, with occupancies ranging from two to eight people. Guests are welcome to bring their watercraft and dock them at the cabins. 

To reserve a cabin, visitors can call the office for more information. 

“We can have flowers delivered or chocolate-covered cherry cake for birthdays – anything that will make your stay extra special,” says Castleman. “We want to make sure our guests get exactly what they’re looking for.”