Natural Falls State Park
Hidden in a narrow V-shaped valley in the Ozark Highlands of northeast Oklahoma, Natural Falls State Park features one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the state—a 77-foot waterfall cascading through ancient rock formations into a serene, fern-covered grotto below.
The stunning scenery may look familiar to many visitors—scenes from the beloved 1974 film “Where the Red Fern Grows” were filmed right here in the park. Today, the Red Fern Reunion Center hosts group gatherings, keeping the movie’s legacy alive.
Spend the night in one of the park’s five cozy yurts, complete with climate control and modern amenities, or venture to Fox Meadows Campground—a 120-acre primitive backcountry preserve accessible only on foot for experienced campers seeking true wilderness solitude.
Park Fast Facts
Natural Falls State Park is located near the Oklahoma-Arkansas border in the scenic Ozark Highlands region.
| 📍 Location | Colcord, Oklahoma (Ozark Highlands) |
| 🗺️ Region | Northeast Oklahoma / Ozarks |
| 📐 Total Area | 120+ acres (plus Fox Meadows) |
| 💧 Waterfall Height | 77 feet |
| ⏰ Hours | Daily (check seasonal hours) |
| 📞 Phone | (918) 422-5802 |
The Waterfall
The 77-foot waterfall is the park’s main attraction, cascading through rock formations into a hidden grotto at the bottom of a narrow V-shaped valley. The moist environment creates perfect conditions for:
- 🌿 Ferns, mosses, and liverworts
- 🍁 Maples and oak canopy
- 🌸 Flowering dogwood, redbud, pawpaw
Two observation points offer different perspectives—a railed overlook platform above the falls and a seated observation deck at the foot of the falls.
Yurt Accommodations
| Yurt Type | Sleeps | Beds |
|---|---|---|
| 🛖 4-Person Yurt | 4 | 1 Queen + 1 Futon |
| 🛖 6-Person Yurt | 6 | 2 Bunks (Queen/Twin each) |
All yurts include: AC/heat, microwave, dorm fridge, K-cup coffee maker, ceiling fan, electrical outlets, dining table, 4 chairs, broom/dustpan. Outside: picnic table, charcoal grill, fire ring, deck, lantern hanger. Bring linens or rent from park. Pets welcome (fee).
Fox Meadows Primitive Camping
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 📐 Size | 120 acres preservation area |
| 🥾 Access | Hike-in ONLY (no vehicle access) |
| 🏕️ Style | True primitive wilderness camping |
| 🚿 Facilities | NONE — no restrooms, no water |
| 📝 Permit | Required (approved permits only) |
| 🐕 Pets | Allowed (leash required, clean up) |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| 🥾 Hiking | 4.5 miles of trails |
| 🥏 Disc Golf | 18-hole wooded course |
| 🎣 Fishing | Catch and release |
| 🏐 Volleyball | Court available |
| 🏀 Basketball | Court available |
| 🎯 Horseshoes | Pits available |
| 🦅 Wildlife Watching | Diverse forest wildlife |
| 🌸 Formal Garden | Landscaped garden area |
“Where the Red Fern Grows”
The park’s stunning natural beauty caught Hollywood’s attention—scenes from the beloved 1974 film “Where the Red Fern Grows” were filmed here. The movie, based on Wilson Rawls’ classic novel about a boy and his two hunting dogs in the Ozarks, used the park’s waterfall and forested valleys as a backdrop. The Red Fern Reunion Center honors this legacy and is available for group functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is the waterfall at Natural Falls?
The waterfall at Natural Falls State Park is 77 feet tall, making it one of the most impressive waterfalls in Oklahoma. It cascades through rock formations into a hidden grotto at the bottom of a V-shaped valley in the Ozark Highlands.
What movie was filmed at Natural Falls State Park?
Scenes from the 1974 film “Where the Red Fern Grows” were filmed at Natural Falls State Park. The movie is based on Wilson Rawls’ beloved novel about a boy and his hunting dogs in the Ozarks. The park’s Red Fern Reunion Center honors this connection.
What are the yurts like at Natural Falls?
The park has 5 yurts that sleep 4-6 people. Each includes AC/heat, microwave, dorm fridge, K-cup coffee maker, ceiling fan, electrical outlets, dining table, and chairs. Outside you’ll find a picnic table, charcoal grill, fire ring, and deck. Bring your own linens or rent from the park.
Can you swim at Natural Falls State Park?
No, swimming is not allowed in the park to protect the waterfall ecosystem. However, there are several public swimming areas available within a short distance of the park if you’re looking to cool off.
What is Fox Meadows Campground?
Fox Meadows is a 120-acre primitive backcountry preserve separate from the main park. It’s designed for experienced campers seeking true wilderness—accessible ONLY by foot with no restrooms, running water, or facilities. You need an approved permit to camp there.
Is there disc golf at Natural Falls?
Yes! Natural Falls has an 18-hole disc golf course winding through the wooded terrain. The park also offers basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, 4.5 miles of hiking trails, and catch-and-release fishing.
Discover Oklahoma’s Hidden Waterfall
Experience a stunning 77-foot waterfall, stay in cozy yurts, explore 120 acres of wilderness backcountry, and walk where “Where the Red Fern Grows” was filmed!
