EXPLORING OKLAHOMA WITH CHILDREN
STORY AND PHOTOS BY DEBBIE MURNAN Beavers Bend Getaway
BEAVERS BEND CABIN
MOBILE-FRIENDLY VERSION CLICK FOR
On the way The drive to Broken Bow from Oklahoma City takes about four hours, so finding places to stop along the way is ideal, especially when traveling with children. Stretch your legs at Robbers Cave State Park , just 2.5 hours outside the metro. The park is nestled among hilly woodlands and became legendary for sheltering fugitives like Jesse James after the Civil War. A popular first stop is the Cave Nature Trail, an easy loop near the north end of the park. The trail is full of large rocky outcrops surrounding a massive cave, perfect for kids to climb and explore. Afterward, make your way farther south to the riding stables for a guided trail ride through Oklahoma pines. Children ages 5 and up can ride their own horse while younger kids may ride with an adult. Rides begin at 10 a.m. daily and range from 30 minutes to 2 hours in length. Reservations are required and can be made online. If you have extra time, the park also offers a mini- golf course and paddle boat rentals by Lake Carlton. As you continue your drive to Broken Bow, stop at The Rock House in Talihina for an early dinner. This destination restaurant
rewards guests with panoramic views of surrounding mountainsides and an incredible dining experience featuring steaks, pasta and seafood. They begin seating at 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday and reservations are required.
With spring in the air and families eager to get outdoors, planning a long weekend in southeastern Oklahoma will be a perfect way to shake off those quarantine blues when we receive the all- clear. Broken Bow is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parts of our state, surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest and home to Beavers Bend State Park. The area is brimming with recreational activities, scenic drives and wildlife experiences. After wrapping up a day of fun with your family, the perfect cabin awaits, providing a quiet retreat in the woods to rest and reflect on your adventures. Editor’s note regarding COVID-19 pandemic: Please follow the state of Oklahoma guidelines as they relate to travel and quarantine. Double check with lodging and attractions to determine if and when they are open.
MASON AND AIDEN EXPLORING THE ROBBERS CAVE NATURE TRAIL
36 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator