With this visitors guide you will be able to plan your trip like you're a local!
OSIYO FROM TAHLEQUAH & CHEROKEE COUNTY
VISITORS GUIDE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page 2: County Wide Map
Page 4: Overview & Fun Facts Page 5: Tahlequah Map Tahlequah
Page 6: Accommodations & Restaurants Page 7: Northeastern State University Page 8: Cherokee Nation History
Page 9-10: Museums Page 11-12: Downtown
Page 14: Overview & Fun Facts Page 15: Lake Tenkiller Map Page 16: Accommodations & Restaurants Lake Tenkiller
Page 17: Marinas Page 18: Activities Page 19: Hiking & Biking Trails
Illinois River
Page 21: Overview & Fun Facts Page 22: Illinois River Map Page 23: Accommodations & Restaurants Page 24: Activities Page 25: Float Outfitters Page 26: Floating Information Page 27: Hiking Trails Page 29: Overview & Fun Facts Page 30: Sequoyah State Park Map Page 31: Accommodations & Restaurants Page 32: Activities Page 33: Hiking & Biking Sequoyah State Park
Page 34: Annual Events
CHEROKEE COUNTY
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Illinois River
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sequoyah state park
Tahlequah
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Lake Tenkiller
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Tahlequah TAHLEQUAH
OVERVIEW
Tahlequah offers a mixture of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Explore Cherokee heritage at museums and historic sites, stroll through downtown shops and art galleries, or enjoy local cuisine at one-of-a-kind restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore local parks and trails for hiking, biking, and running, or enjoy nearby lakes and the river for boating, fishing, and floating adventures. From lively festivals and events to rich cultural experiences and natural scenery, Tahlequah offers visitors a wide range of engaging activities that celebrate its heritage, small-town charm, and beautiful surroundings. FUN FACTS
The book and movie, Where the Red Fern Grows, are based in Tahlequah.
Famous Tahlequahlians include Wes Studi, Wilma Mankiller, and Ryan Helsley.
It is home to the first surveyed main street in Oklahoma.
The first telephone call in Oklahoma was made in Tahlequah.
Tahlequah is the capital city of the Cherokee Nation.
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Tahlequah Map
Anthis Brennan Sports
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Complex
Northeastern State
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University
Downtown Tahlequah
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Cherokee History
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Museum
Cherokee Supreme
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Court Museum
Cherokee Prison
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Museum
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Cherokee Casino
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Keetoowah Museum
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Hunter’s Home
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John Ross Museum
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Cherokee Tribal Complex
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Tahlequah
Tru Hotel
Bungalow in Tahlequah Airbnb
Tahlequah offers a wide variety of lodging options to suit every traveler.
Tahlequah’s dining scene offers something for every taste! From Cajun dishes and Cherokee cuisine, to cafes and locally owned eateries. Visitors can enjoy everything from delicious breakfasts to gourmet dinners, with dishes that reflect the unique charm and culture of the community. ACCOMMODATIONS & RESTAURANTS From cozy cabins and charming bed-and-breakfasts to modern hotels and riverside retreats, visitors can relax in comfort while enjoying easy access to local attractions, dining, and outdoor adventures.
Chet’s Dairy Freeze
Linney Breaux’s
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NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY STATE UNIVERSITY Founded in 1846 as the Cherokee National Female Seminary, Northeastern State University (NSU) in Tahlequah stands as a living tribute to Cherokee education and resilience. Visitors can tour Seminary Hall and the original seminary columns, explore historic bshwbbdede landmarks across campus, and discover exhibits that honor
the history of the Cherokee people Cherokee heritage. From its architecture to monuments and cultural displays, NSU offers a meaningful glimpse into
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Seminary Hall
Tahlequah
Tahlequah’s story is deeply rooted in Cherokee history. Following the Trail of Tears in the
1830s, the Cherokee people were forcibly removed from their ancestral homelands in the southeastern United States and relocated to Indian Territory, where they established
HISTORY
Tahlequah as the capital of the Cherokee Nation in 1839. Despite unimaginable hardship, the Cherokee people rebuilt their government, schools, and community, shaping Tahlequah into a center of culture, leadership, and resilience. Today, the Cherokee Nation thrives as the largest federally recognized tribe in the United States, continuing to preserve and celebrate its heritage while driving economic and cultural growth across the region. Visitors can experience this living history firsthand by exploring Tahlequah’s museums, including the Cherokee National History Museum,
the Cherokee National Prison Museum, and the Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum, each offering powerful insights into the past and present of a people whose strength continues to define the community.
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Sequoyah Statue
MUSE
The Cherokee National Prison Museum shares the story of law and order in the Cherokee Nation, featuring artifacts, inmate stories, and engaging exhibits.
Visitors can explore the preserved 19th-century stone jail structures.
Cherokee National Prison Museum
The Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum highlights the Cherokee Nation’s judicial history, showcasing documents, exhibits, and artifacts from the Nation’s first Supreme Court and printing press. nvrjed
The Cherokee National History Museum offers a journey through Cherokee history, culture, and resilience, featuring interactive exhibits and artifacts inside the historic Cherokee National Capitol building.
Cherokee National History Museum
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Tahlequah
UMS
The Keetoowah Museum celebrates the history, culture, and traditions of the United Keetoowah Band, featuring artifacts, exhibits, and stories preserving this distinct Cherokee heritage.
Keetoowah Museum
The John Ross Museum honors the life and leadership of Chief John Ross, showcasing exhibits on his legacy, Cherokee governance, education, and the early history of Tahlequah.
Hunter’s Home , Oklahoma’s only remaining antebellum plantation, offers a glimpse into 19th-century life with authentic furnishings, beautiful gardens, and engaging historical demonstrations.
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Hunters Home
D O W N D N Downtown Tahlequah is a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and art, offering a welcoming atmosphere for both visitors and locals alike. Stroll historic streets lined with unique boutiques, locally owned shops, and galleries showcasing Cherokee as well as regional
craftsmanship. Enjoy a wide variety of dining options, from cafés to sit- down restaurants, featuring both local favorites and one-of-a-kind cuisine. Visitors can explore public art installations, colorful murals, and cultural spaces that celebrate the area’s rich heritage. With frequent events, walkable streets, and a strong sense of community, downtown Tahlequah is a destination where history, creativity, and connection come together for a truly memorable experience year- round for everyone.
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T O W N T N
Tahlequah
Vintage Market A charming vendor-style shop offering a curated collection of antiques, up-cycled décor, and artisan goods, where every visit feels like a treasure hunt.
Sweet on Main The name says it all! This
business specializes in rolled ice cream, dirty sodas, boba teas, and customizable sweet treats.
Junie’s Closet
A local boutique that offers affordable on-trend women’s clothing, accessories, and gifts.
Too Fond of Books Kroner & Baer A stylish industrial-themed pub featuring local craft beers, wood-fired pizzas, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for both families and nighttime crowds. A whimsical, community-focused independent bookstore that has a curated selection of new and used titles for all ages, plus a cozy children’s nook and local author events and workshops.
Kroner & Baer Pub
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LAKE TENKILLER
OVERVIEW
Lake Tenkiller offers a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy year-round, making it a favorite destination in every season. You can boat, fish, kayak, paddleboard, or dive in some of Oklahoma’s clearest waters, perfect for both adventure and relaxation. Several marinas and boat rentals make getting on the water easy and accessible for all skill levels. The surrounding area features scenic hiking trails, swim beaches, and campgrounds, along with lakeside restaurants and cozy cabins. With a blend of water and land activities, Lake Tenkiller serves as a central spot for outdoor recreation, family fun, and peaceful relaxation in Cherokee County.
FUN FACTS
Jincy’s Kitchen was a filming location in the movie “Where the Redfern Grows”.
Lake Tenkiller has 130 miles of shoreline.
The Tenkiller Dam was built in 1947 at a cost of $23,687,900. This is equivalent to $344,139,510.78 today.
Tenkiller Lake reaches up to 132.7 feet deep, making it the second deepest lake in the state of Oklahoma.
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TENKILLER MAP
Bluewater Bay Marina
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Barnacle Bills Marina
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Burnt Cabin Marina
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Snake Creek Marina
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Sixshooter Marina
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Cookson Bend Marina
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Elk Creek Marina
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Caney Creek Marina
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Cherokee Landing State Park
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Welling Ridge Trail System
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Cookson Wildlife Management Area
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Cherokee Wildlife Management Area
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Horseshoe Bend
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Lake Tenkiller
Lodging around Lake Tenkiller ranges from cozy cabins and lakefront
resorts to campgrounds and RV parks. Many options offer direct water access, boat rentals, and scenic views. Whether you prefer a woodland stay or modern comforts, accommodations near the lake make it easy to enjoy outdoor adventures and all of the attractions that are nearby!
Rustic Cabin Airbnb
& RESTAURANTS ACCOMMODATIONS
Restaurants around Lake Tenkiller offer a mix of local flavor and casual lakeside dining. Visitors can enjoy classic Oklahoma barbecue, fresh catfish, and burgers with a view. Several of the dining spots feature live music and xnsj outdoor patios, making them dmke great places to relax following a day
on the water or exploring nearby trails.
Jincy’s Kitchen
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MARINAS
Barnacle Bills Marina 31979 S 516 Rd, Park Hill, OK 918-414-5411 Bluewater Bay Marina 20136 W 873 Rd, Park Hill, OK 918-708-1671
Sixshooter Marina 20144 W Six Shooter Rd, Cookson, OK 918-457-5152 Snake Creek Marina 18576 W Snake Creek Rd, Cookson 918-393-10871
Caney Ridge Marina 23449 OK-100, Welling, OK 918-457-4417 Burnt Cabin Marina 35190 S 497 Rd, Park Hill, OK 918-457-5421
Cookson Bend Marina 19644 W Cookson Rd, Cookson, OK 918-457-5156 Elk Creek Marina 22911 W 877 Rd Rd, Park Hill, OK 918-457-5142
Lake Tenkiller is home to some of the nicest marinas you’ll find anywhere. They have everything you’d want: great food, live music, drinks on the water, and more! Exploring the lake’s marinas is a must for any visitor.
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Barnacle Bills Marina
Lake Tenkiller
Cherokee Landing State Park
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Kayaking and paddle boarding are a fun, more relaxed way to experience
Chelsea Littleton Photography
Lake Tenkiller’s natural beauty. Paddle through quiet coves, take in the scenic views, and enjoy a peaceful time on the water. Bring your own equipment or rent gear nearby for an easy and enjoyable outing.
Boating and water sports are a must at Lake Tenkiller. Get on the water, wakeboard, waterski, or tube all day long. Boat rentals can be found at Bluewater Bay, Burnt Cabin, Cookson Bend, Elk Creek, and Sixshooter Marinas .
Lake Tenkiller is known for excellent bass, catfish, and crappie fishing, with plenty of great spots to cast from shore or by boat year-round.
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HIKING & BIKING TRAILS Lake Tenkiller offers scenic routes and wooded trails perfect for hikers and bikers. Explore the Welling Ridge Trail System on foot or by bike. Whether you want lakeside views or a bit of thrill, check out the Burnt Cabin Trail.
Welling Ridge Trails
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ILLINOIS RIVER
Overview
The Illinois River offers a mix of laid-back recreation and scenic adventure. Visitors can float or kayak along the river, stop at riverside beaches, and enjoy the area’s abundant wildlife. Several outfitters provide rentals, shuttle services, and camping options, making it easy for families or groups to plan a full day on the water. Nearby trails, picnic spots, and overlooks round out the experience, giving travelers plenty of ways to enjoy this natural gem. FUN FACTS
Mister Ed the talking horse’s grave is located on Hwy 82.
Bald eagles can be seen year round along the river.
The Illinois River is home to 62 species of fish.
The Osage Indians gave the Illinois River it’s original name, “Ne-eng-wah-kon-dah”, which translates as " Medicine Stone River " .
Approximately 10,000 people float the river on a Saturday during the summer.
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Illinois River Map
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War Eagle Resort
Riverbend Floats
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Peyton’s Place
All American Floats
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Edmondson Public Access
Falcon Floats
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Eagle Bluff Resort
Echota Public Access
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J.T. Nickels Preserve
Sparrow Hawk Camp
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Arrowhead Resort
GRDA Scenic Rivers Office
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Peavine Public Access
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Todd Public Access Sparrow Hawk Wildlife Management Area No Head Hollow Public Access
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Stunkard Public Access
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Round Hollow Public Access
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Riverside Resort
Diamondhead Resort
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Mister Ed’s Grave
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Illinois River Outfitters
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Roxie’s BBQ sits right along the Illinois River and offers a relaxed,
come-as-you-are atmosphere that’s perfect after a day on the water! From great drinks to unforgettable appetizers and entrées, visitors will find plenty to enjoy that will have them planning their next visit before they even walk out the door! Several river outfitters also feature on-site restaurants, with Tahlequah’s diverse dining options only a quick ten-minute drive away. ACCOMMODATIONS & RESTAURANTS Roxie’s BBQ
Lodging near the Illinois River ranges from cabins and family-friendly campgrounds to riverside resorts with easy access to float outfitters. Visitors can choose simple, budget-friendly stays or full-service options with amenities like fire pits, picnic areas, and river access, making it easy to relax and enjoy the water.
War Eagle Resort
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Illinois River
At the JT Nickel Family Nature
Highway 10
& Wildlife Preserve , the largest privately protected conservation area in the Ozarks spanning 17,000 acres, visitors can explore on foot-only trails and take in the beautiful scenery while spotting elk, deer, birds, and many other native wildlife species throughout the landscape.
Anglers will find excellent fishing along the Illinois River, known for Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, and Crappie. The easy access points and clear waters make it ideal for all skill levels. Cast from shore, wade, or fish from kayaks or canoes.
Highway 10 follows the Illinois River with water views, pull-offs for photos, and easy access to outfitters, campgrounds, and picnic areas, making it a scenic, flexible drive. It’s beautiful year-round, but most loved via car and motorcycle during the fall season.
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OUTFITTERS
Float outfitters provide rentals, shuttles, and convenient river access, and nearby cabins and campgrounds make it easy for visitors to plan a full, stress-free trip to the river.
Sparrowhawk Camp 21985 N Ben George Rd, Tahlequah, OK 918-456-8371 War Eagle Resort 13020 OK-10, Tahlequah, OK 918-456-6272 Riverside Resort 5116 OK-10, Tahlequah, OK 918-456-4787 Illinois River Outfitters 11555 OK-10, Tahlequah, OK 918-822-3528 Peyton’s Place 10298 OK-10, Tahlequah, OK 918-359-0866 Riverbend Resort 17252 OK-10, Tahlequah, OK 918-708-6430
Falcon Floats 16326 OK-10, Tahlequah, OK 918-456-8058 All American Floats 17170 OK-10, Tahlequah, OK 918-456-6949 Arrowhead Resort 7704 OK-10, Tahlequah, OK 918-456-1140 Diamondhead Resort 12081 OK-10, Tahlequah, OK 918-456-4545 Eagle Bluff Resort 9800 OK-10, Tahlequah, OK 918-456-3031
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Illinois River
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Designated a Scenic River in 1970, the Illinois River is carefully protected, and visitors are asked to follow posted rules, including using designated access points and securing all trash. Glass containers and styrofoam coolers are not allowed, and life jackets are required for all floaters. Water levels can change, so checking conditions with your outfitter before launching is always wise. These guidelines help keep
the river safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone.
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Sparrowhawk WMA
Enjoy the most spectacular view in Northeast Oklahoma on the Sparrowhawk Wildlife Management Area trail, or hike at the J.T. Nickels Preserve for the chance to see elk and deer. HIKING TRAILS
Seth Key Photography
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J.T. Nickels Preserve
SEQUOYAH STATE PARK
Overview
At Sequoyah State Park, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures in a scenic lakeside setting. The Park was built in 1953 and offers a charming pine-lined drive that you’ll experience as soon as you turn in. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails that take you through forested areas, while the lake offers fishing, boating, and aqua-trike opportunities. The park also features picnic areas, playgrounds, campgrounds, 9-hole golf course, and a nature center with educational exhibits. Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts can spot local species throughout the park, and seasonal events and guided programs provide added ways to explore, learn, and fully experience all the park has to offer. FUN FACTS Sequoyah State Park features the largest state park lodge in Oklahoma.
The park is named after Sequoyah, the man who created the Cherokee Syllabary.
The Three Forks Nature Center once housed one of the oldest eagles on record. Taurus the Bald Eagle lived to the age of 43.
Before it was state park, it was home to the people of Ray, OK. Remnants of the ghost town remain scattered through the park.
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SEQUOYAH STATE PARK MAP
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Sequoyah State Park
Wildwood Public Access
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Paradise cove marina
Hulbert Splash Pad
Sequoyah Golf Course
Riverlinks Golf Course
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Three Forks Nature Center
Rockin’ R Farms
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Sequoyah Lodge
Our Lady of Clear Creek Abbey
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Management Area Fort Gibson Wildlife
Downing Brewery
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Sequoyah Lodge
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Lodging at Sequoyah State Park
Visitors to Sequoyah State Park can easily find nearby dining options
offers something for everyone, from 104 lodge rooms with a charming mid-century vibe to 45 cabins and a large bunkhouse
just a short drive away. In Hulbert, Above Par BBQ is
for groups. Tent and RV Camping is also available, giving visitors’ flexible options to stay close to the lake, trails, and all of the park activities.
a local favorite, and Retro Coffee is a great stop for a quick pick-me-up, while Tahlequah provides a wider range of restaurants for every taste. Many guests also enjoy bringing
their own food to grill, embracing a classic, nature-centered experience. Whether dining out or cooking under the trees, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the park’s beautiful surroundings.
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Sequoyah State Park
Inspiration Point
ACTIVITIES
PARK HIGHLIGHTS & ACTIVITIES The Three Forks Nature Center provides educational exhibits, live non-releasable animal ambassadors, and a recreation center that hosts daily summer activities. Seasonal events, such as bald eagle tours, add unique ways to enjoy the park. TRAILS & WILDLIFE
Hiking and biking trails take you through forested areas, with opportunities to spot birds, deer, and other wildlife. Trails vary in length and difficulty for all skill levels.
ON THE WATER
trikes, with nearby boat ramps and rentals. Lodge guests can also enjoy the on-site pool and splash pad for convenient water-based activities. The lake offers boating, fishing, and aqua
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HIKING & BIKING
Sequoyah State Park features 12 scenic hiking trails that range from easy
Fitness Trail
strolls to moderate treks. The Fossil Trail offers a glimpse of ancient marine fossils, while the paved Fitness Trail is ideal for strollers or bicycles. The park also features a single-track mountain biking trail and extensive road-biking opportunities. Each trail showcases the park’s forested beauty and lakeside views.
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Fossil Trail
Tahlequah & Cherokee County
Diamondstone Music Festival
EVENTS
Cherokee County hosts several annual events that draw visitors year after year. Favorites include the Red Fern Festival, Crawfish Festival, Bluegrass & Chili Festival, and Diamondstone Music Festival. Each offers a unique mix of music, food, and family fun! Dates and event details vary, so visitors should check the official website calendar by scanning the QR code for
updated information before planning your next trip to town!
Crawfish Festival
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“ UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN ” “UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN ” ! ᏙᎾᏓᎪᎲᎢ ( )
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