Named after a prominent Cheyenne chief, Roman Nose State Park, was one of the seven original Oklahoma state parks.
Known for its incredible natural beauty, the park is set within a beautiful canyon and features three natural springs, two lakes and rugged gypsum rock cliffs that give it a dramatic, almost wild west, look.
Located seven miles north from the town of Watonga, the park is only a 75 minute drive from Oklahoma City. This makes it a popular day trip destination from the state capital.
However, if you are coming from further afield, or you are just wanting to spend a few days there, the park has plenty of overnight accommodation options for visitors too.
Activities
Love messing about on the water, or enjoying a round of golf? Or maybe you prefer birdwatching or exploring trails on foot or horse? Perhaps finding out about all about the park’s history and wildlife is what really piques your interest.
Whatever you like to do when you visit a state park, Roman Nose State Park offers plenty for the visitor.
Below is some more information about what you can do here.
Aquatic activities at Roman Nose State Park
The park is centered around two 2 lakes which are situated in its northern part.
Between them they offer excellent opportunities for fishing, predominantly for trout. As well as a range of water based recreational activities like kayaking, canoeing and SUP.
Unfortunately, swimming is not encouraged in the lakes, but you can go for a dip in one of its two pools.
Hiking at Roman Nose State Park
Hiking is a popular activity at the park and there are four main trails which you can explore on foot.
In terms of difficulty, these trails range from beginner to intermediate level. They take you deep into the heart of the park, where you will see fantastic views of the lakes and the overall landscape.
As well as lots of wonderful flora and fauna too.
Horseback Riding at Roman Nose State Park
As well as the hiking trails, if you want to explore the park on horseback, you can do that along a handful of guided trails.
Led by a knowledgeable ranger, the tours can take between one to two hours, and showcase the park’s incredible scenery, as you traverse the well worn and marked trails. Contact the main park office for more details.
Visitor’s Center at Roman Nose State Park
For those who want to find out more about the park’s history, the Visitor’s Center is well worth a visit.
Among its exhibits are plenty of information about Chief Henry Roman Nose, as well as the overall history and culture of the park.
An onsite park ranger will be able to answer any questions you have, and you can even learn about the flora and fauna that call the park home.
Historic Walking Tour at Roman Nose State Park
The park possesses some eye-catching and iconic structures which can be explored via a historic walking tour.
Overall six structures are highlighted on the tour, which is a great way to get your bearings around the park.
For a first time visitor, if you have spare time, it is well worth doing.
Golfing at Roman Nose State Park
Golf lovers should really enjoy playing a round at the park’s onsite course.
A beautiful 18-hole, par 70 course, it is characterized by stunning Bermuda grass fairways and tees, as well as sloping bent grass greens. It also features canyon walls, mesas, stunning lake views and plenty of natural hazards.
Practice facilities include a putting green, while there is also a pro shop that offers club and cart rentals, as well as refreshments.
Birding at Roman Nose State Park
If you are into birdwatching you will no doubt love the opportunity to spot over 85 different species within the park.
Be sure to pack your binoculars with you, as you will be able to see everything from herons, cardinals and wild turkeys, to robins, mourning doves and blue grosbeaks.
You should also be able to spot bald eagles, red-tailed hawks and great horned owls too.
Some of the main hot spots for birdwatching in the park are at Lake Watonga and both the Lake Loop and Mesa Loop trails.
Pets at Roman Nose State Park
Pets are allowed in the park, although some restrictions may apply. To ascertain what they are, it is worth contacting the park’s main office.
Camping at Roman Nose State Park
Spread across 5 different campgrounds there is a good range of camping options available at the park.
This includes more than 60 campsites for you to choose from, which range from RVs sites that have full hookups, to primitive tent sites.
In addition to them, there are also 11 cabins available. All of which have full kitchens and are furnished with a range of amenities including queen size beds, fireplaces, bathrooms with showers and provided linen.
If you are a part of a very large group, you can always book the Turkey Roost Group Camp. Capable of sleeping up to 163 people, this private area has A-frame bunkhouses and a massive dining hall.
Should you happen to be in the park between April to October, you can even book one of the park’s teepees.
A very unique space in which to sleep the night, these sizable structures can sleep four adults, and come with an outdoor fire ring and grill and an indoor electric outlet.
Amenities at Roman Nose State Park
Between the different campgrounds there are a range of amenities available to the visitor.
This includes 30-amp to 50-amp electricity, as well as comfort stations with flush toilets and warm showers.
In addition, there is also a dump station, gift shop, camp store, amphitheater, outdoor swimming pool and children’s playground too.
Park Location
Roman Nose State Park
3236 S Hwy 8A
Watonga, OK 73772
Phone: 580.623.4218
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Roman Nose State Park:
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