Tucked away between the eastern fringes of the Tom Steed Reservoir, and the foothills of Wichita Mountains, the Great Plains State Park is undoubtedly one of Oklahoma’s most spectacular public recreational spaces.
Set within 487 acres and rising at 1,426 feet, this Oklahoma state park is known for its scintillating views and terrific outdoor leisure activities.
As it is less than two hours from Oklahoma City, the park’s diverse landscape is the perfect destination to escape from city life, and immerse yourself in nature.
There are also plenty of RV, trailer and tent accommodation options for those who want to stay a few nights. Though you might need to book ahead to ensure you procure one.
Activities
Whether on land, or water, the Great Plains State Park offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities for the visitor to enjoy during their time there.
With everything from boating, swimming and fishing to hiking, biking and rock climbing available boredom isn’t an option.
If that’s too energetic for you, there are lots of places to enjoy a scenic picnic with a lakeside view too.
Boating at Great Plains State Park
Featuring more than 31 miles of shoreline, the sparkling waters of the Tom Steed Lake provide visitors with several opportunities for boating related activities.
This includes the likes of kayaking, canoeing and SUP, as well as row boating, jet-skiing and water skiing. All of which can be launched from boat ramps that are very easy to access.
Swimming at Great Plains State Park
As well as boating, the lake offers wonderful opportunities to swim, particularly in the hotter months of the summer.
Complete with a beach, which is excellent for sunbathing in, there is also a designated swimming area to paddle about in. So be sure to bring your swimming costume.
Hiking at Great Plains State Park
Within the park are a number of hiking trails which are suitable for all levels of fitness.
One of the most popular includes the Great Plains State Park Loop which is about 10 km in length and showcases much of the park’s beautiful scenery, rocky outcrops and historical points of interest.
This trail can take around 3 hours to complete, so it’s worth bringing plenty of water, a hat and sunscreen with you.
The Red Flag Trail is a much shorter and easier trail to traverse and should take you about 45 minutes to make your way through its 3.2 km stretch.
Mountain Biking at Great Plains State Park
Those into mountain biking should get a lot of enjoyment on the granite trail system that is available in the park.
Stretching for seven miles it is divided into three separate areas which can get quite rough, narrow and rocky. So it is probably a better course for more skilled riders to attempt.
If you are a more novice rider, you’ll find some easier paths within the eastern loop.
Fishing at Great Plains State Park
Fishing enthusiasts from all over the USA come to the Great Plain State Park for the opportunity to cast a line in the Tom Steed Reservoir.
Boasting a dock, two boat ramps and miles of shorelines, its shimmering waters are home to an abundance of bass, crappie and catfish.
Anglers can access both the southern and eastern shores of this reservoir, and if you come during the peak fishing season you can buy snacks and bait at the onsite shop.
Rock Climbing at Great Plains State Park
Rock climbing is a popular activity at the park thanks to the huge granite outcroppings that are contained within it.
While there are climbing sections to suit all abilities throughout the park, if you are an avid rock climber, you should tackle the Granite Trail, which enables visitors to tackle a huge granite boulder field.
Historical Sites at Great Plains State Park
If you are big into history then you will love the opportunity to check out the various historical sites at Great Plains State Park.
One of the main highlights is an abandoned 120-year old mine that used to operate in the area. Another is the remains of the 1904 Gold Bells Mill and Mine which is situated in the northeastern area of the park.
If you do decide to check out the Gold Bells mine, just be mindful that rattlesnakes are known to inhabit its ruins. So be sure to exercise caution as you venture into it.
Pets at Great Plains State Park
Visitors to the Great Plains State Park can bring their dog with them. However they need to be leashed at all times and clean up after as well.
Camping at Great Plains State Park
For those interested in staying for a few nights, the Great Plains State Park offers 86 campsites which are split between two campgrounds – Otter Creek and Mountain Shade.
Overall, 56 sights are set aside for RVs and Trailers, of which 14 sites come with full hookups. The others are equipped with 30 – 50 amp electricity and also come with water.
The other 30 sites are specifically designated tent camping sites. Some of them are situated on the waterfront.
A selection of the RV, trailer and tent sites can be reserved online. The rest are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities at Great Plains State Park
Amenities within the park include restrooms with showers, picnic tables, a dump station and grills.
You will also find lantern holders there too, as well as a camp store and a children’s playground.
It is advisable to bring all your essentials with you, as the closest town of Snyder is approximately eight miles away.
Thankfully the cell phone reception throughout the campground is also usually pretty good.
Park Location
Great Plains State Park
22487 E 1566 Rd,
Mountain Park, OK 73559
Phone: 580.569.2032
Map
Video
Below is a brief YouTube video showcasing different things to do at Great Plains State Park:
