Things to Do in Broken Bow, OK – The Town in Nature’s Playground
If you love the outdoors, you’ll find endless things to do in Broken Bow, OK. The town is situated in McCurtain County, which is often referred to as “Nature’s Playground.” And it’s easy to see why – you’ll feel right at home in the great outdoors here.
When you first arrive in Broken Bow, there are a few things you can do before leaving the town for adventure:
- Visit Broken Bow Asylum if you’re interested in paranormal activity and spooky places.
- Try some games at Choctaw Casino if you’re feeling lucky, or if you just want a laid-back evening with friends.
- Have dinner at Papa Poblanos or Oaks Steak House – the former restaurant serves Mexican food, and the latter is American cuisine.
The town itself is small, and there’s not much to see there. The magic lies beyond, around the Broken Bow Lake, so find a cabin and start planning your hikes!
Things to Do in Beavers Bend State Park
One of the most popular things to do in Broken Bow, OK is to visit Beavers Bend State Park. The park covers 3,482 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including beavers (hence the name), deer, eagles, and more. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy, such as:
- hiking,
- fishing,
- canoeing,
- horseback riding.
If you love nature photography, Beavers Bend State Park is a must-visit – there are countless photo opportunities around every bend. Make sure to bring your camera! There are also 47 cabins available for rent if you want to stay overnight, or you can camp in one of the park’s 393 campsites.
Beavers Bend Depot and Trail Rides
The Beavers Bend Depot is a great place to start your exploration of Beavers Bend State Park. You can pick up maps and information about the area, as well as buy tickets for the scenic chairlift and train rides.
The chairlift takes you on a relaxing ride through the forest canopy, and the train tour gives you an overview of the park’s history and wildlife. Both rides are great for kids and adults alike.
Forest Heritage Center Museum
For a break from all the outdoor activities, visit the Forest Heritage Center Museum. The museum is located in Beavers Bend State Park and showcases the history and culture of forestry on 14 large dioramas.
You can learn about the people who have worked in the forests, see ancient forestry equipment, and admire chainsaw carvings, among other things. Admission is free, and the museum is open year-round from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Beavers Bend Wildlife Museum
The Beavers Bend Wildlife Museum is another great option for indoor things to do near Broken Bow, OK. The museum is small but packed with information about the area’s wildlife. There are also a few taxidermy animals on display, and you can peek into the taxidermist’s workshop. The tour includes a scavenger hunt!
Things to Do around Broken Bow Lake
Broken Bow Lake is another popular attraction in the area. The crystal-clear water and lush forest make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are also plenty of things to do if you want to stay active, such as:
- swimming,
- kayaking,
- jet skiing,
- wakeboarding.
If you love fishing, you’ll be in heaven – Broken Bow Lake is known for its large bass. There are also catfish, crappie, and trout, as well as boat rentals if you don’t have your own. There are also plenty of fishing guides available if you need some help.
Beavers Bend Marina
The Beavers Bend Marina is the perfect place to start your day on Broken Bow Lake. You can rent boats and jet skis, as well as buy bait and fishing licenses. They also have a café if you need a quick bite before hitting the water. Not far away, there’s the Broken Tiki with cocktails and lake cruises on a tiki boat.
Cedar Creek Golf Course
If you’re looking for things to do in Broken Bow, OK that are a little more low-key, Cedar Creek Golf Course is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. The course is situated in the Ouachita National Forest and offers stunning views of the mountains.
Even if you’re not a golfer, Cedar Creek is worth a visit for the views alone. There’s also a restaurant on-site if you get hungry, and a pro shop if you need to buy any golf supplies.
Places to Visit near Broken Bow, OK – Hochatown
In addition to the Beavers Bend State Park and Broken Bow Lake, there are a few other places worth visiting near Broken Bow. They’re located in Hochatown – a small community near Broken Bow.
Hochatown Petting Zoo
It’s a great place to take the kids. They can meet and learn about ponies, guinea pigs, alpacas, deer, reptiles, and more. Make sure you teach them how to interact with animals safely, though – some may bite when they feel threatened.
Beavers Bend Mining Company
This is a great place for kids to try their hand at gem mining. Besides, there’s miniature golf, a pirate ship playground, and a gift shop. Your little ones can also mine for fossils and arrowheads – great fun for young archeology enthusiasts.
The Maze of Hochatown
This place is perfect for a group activity. The Maze of Hochatown is, well, a maze – the objective is to collect 5 stamps and escape. With a series of passageways, towers and stairways, it’s a good challenge for people of all ages.
Hochatown Amusements
This is an amusement park with a difference – it’s located in the forest! There are go-kart races and miniature golf, so you can stop by for some family fun during your day trip to Hochatown.
Hochatown Escape Games
If you’re looking for things to do in Broken Bow, OK that are a little more adrenaline-pumping, Hochatown Escape Games is the place for you. You and your team will have to solve puzzles and riddles to escape from one of the themed rooms.
Wineries and Breweries to Visit around Broken Bow
If you’re looking for things to do in Broken Bow, OK for adults, visit one of the area’s wineries and breweries. For example, there’s Girls Gone Wine and Vojai’s Winery, as well as Beavers Bend Brewery and Mountain Fork Brewery near Mountain Fork River. Pop into one of them for a tour, some tastings, and to buy some souvenirs.
Rent a Cabin in Broken Bow and Experience Something New
These are just some things to do in Broken Bow, OK. With its outdoor activities, scenic views, and family-friendly attractions, it’s no wonder this place is such a popular vacation destination. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
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