MetroFamily Magazine July August 2022

Sequoyah State Park Lined with towering trees, the picturesque road leading into Sequoyah State Park will immediately capture the hearts of all who enter. This often-forgotten state park rests on the shores of Fort Gibson Lake , a haven for water lovers, and boasts some of the most serene forest settings in Oklahoma. The Lodge at Sequoyah State Park lets guests choose from 104 rooms or 45 cottages and even has a swimming pool with splash pad on site. Wander miles of trails through lush evergreen, oak and hickory trees for some peaceful exploration. The 1.25-mile Eagles Roost Trail loops through a popular bald eagle roosting site in the winter. The Sequoyah Fitness Trail is one of our favorites near the lodge, winding along the lake’s shores and dotted with markers that describe the natural history of the area. Children love visiting Three Forks Nature Center to learn more about the flora and fauna of the region and see some live animal exhibits, including coyotes and foxes. The neighboring half-mile Fossil Trail showcases million-year-old crustacean fossils to discover along its rocky path. Visit Sequoyah Riding Stables for guided horseback rides and hayrides or play a round of horseshoes with the family. Golfers can book a tee-time online at the 9-hole Sequoyah Golf Course , strikingly lined with mature pecan, oak and pine trees and known for its gorgeous lake views. With 225 miles of shoreline, boating and swimming are popular pastimes here, and the Paradise Cove Marina provides ample water recreation with pontoon, paddle boat and personal watercraft rentals. If you’re looking to extend your boating adventures, Sequoyah Bay State Park is located just 20 minutes away and rests on the western shores of Fort Gibson Lake with its own marina. These five lesser-visited state parks are all under 3 hours from Oklahoma City and make wonderful weekend excursions, especially for families with young children who are acclimating to longer road trips or for a quick getaway when you’re craving family time. Oklahoma is fortunate to have a wide range of state parks to choose from, and these five are truly the hidden gems of our state, offering a wealth of outdoor activities for the ultimate family getaway.

(ABOVE) EXPLORE THE SHORES ALONG FORT GIBSON LAKE. (BELOW) TAKE A GUIDED HORSEBACK RIDE WITH SEQUOYAH RIDING STABLES.

VISIT THREE FORKS NATURE CENTER TO LEARN ABOUT THE AREA’S FLORA AND FAUNA.

CHOOSE FROM A ROOM OR COTTAGE AT THE LODGE.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / EVERYTHING GUIDE 2022-2023 77

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