Robbers Cave State Park
Deep in Oklahoma’s Sans Bois Mountains, Robbers Cave State Park tells the story of outlaws, wilderness, and American history. These rugged sandstone caves and cliffs were once the hideout of legendary desperados like Jesse James, Belle Starr, the Dalton Gang, and the Younger Brothers—all seeking refuge from frontier justice in the untamed mountains.
Today, this beautifully preserved park is one of Oklahoma’s Original Seven state parks, established in 1936 as part of FDR’s New Deal. The Civilian Conservation Corps built the rustic cabins, roads, group camps, and bathhouse—many of which still stand as stunning examples of Parkitecture, the National Park Service’s rustic design aesthetic.
From exploring the actual caves where outlaws hid to staying in a covered wagon or yurt, enjoying the lodge overlooking Lake Carlton, or hitting the ATV and equestrian trails, Robbers Cave offers a treasure trove of adventure for the whole family.
Park Fast Facts
Robbers Cave State Park is located in the Sans Bois Mountains of southeastern Oklahoma.
| 📍 Location | Highway 2, Wilburton, OK 74578 |
| 🗺️ Region | Sans Bois Mountains / Southeastern Oklahoma |
| 📐 Total Area | 8,246 acres |
| 🏛️ Established | 1936 (Original Seven) |
| 📞 Phone | (918) 465-2565 |
Outlaw History
After the Civil War, the remote caves and rugged terrain of the Sans Bois Mountains became a refuge for some of the Old West’s most notorious outlaws.
| Outlaw | Notoriety |
|---|---|
| 🤠 Jesse James | Most famous train robber in American history |
| 👢 Belle Starr | “Queen of the Outlaws” – cattle rustler, horse thief |
| 🔫 Dalton Gang | Bank and train robbers from Kansas |
| 🐎 Younger Brothers | Partners with Jesse James, bank robbers |
| ⚔️ Rufus Buck Gang | Notorious Oklahoma Territory outlaws |
Lodging Options
| Accommodation | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏨 Robbers Cave Lodge | Full-service lodge with restaurant, meeting space |
| 🏠 Rustic Cabins | CCC-built, native stone, live-edge cedar siding |
| 🛖 Yurts | Unique glamping experience |
| 🛞 Covered Wagon | Old West glamping adventure! |
| 🐴 Equestrian Campground | Horse-friendly camping |
| ⛺ Old Circle Campground | CCC-designed, wooded sites |
| 🌊 Campground by Dam | Family-style near water |
| 🦅 Eagle’s Nest | Quiet, secluded sites |
Camping & RV
| Camping Type | Amenities |
|---|---|
| 🔌 Full Hookups | Water, electric, sewer |
| ⚡ Electric Sites | 30 and 50 amp available |
| ➡️ Pull-Through Sites | Easy RV access |
| ⛺ Tent Sites | Multiple campground options |
| 👥 Group Camp | Available for large groups |
| 🚿 Restrooms | Showers, restrooms throughout |
| 🚐 Dump Station | Available for RVs |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| 🥾 Hiking | Explore caves and sandstone bluffs |
| 🏔️ Cave Exploration | Climb through historic outlaw hideouts |
| 🚗 ATV Area | Designated off-road vehicle trails |
| 🐴 Horseback Riding | Equestrian trails and camping |
| 🎣 Fishing | Lake Carlton fishing |
| 🛶 Paddling | Canoe and paddleboat rentals |
| 🏊 Swimming | Pool and swim beach |
| 🥏 Disc Golf | Course on-site |
| 🚴 Biking | Mountain biking trails |
CCC & Parkitecture
Robbers Cave showcases stunning Parkitecture—the rustic design aesthetic developed by the National Park Service and executed by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
| CCC Legacy | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 CCC Established | July 12, 1933 (Company 1825) |
| 🏗️ Built | Cabins, roads, bathhouse, group camp, shelters |
| 💧 Lake Carlton | Created by damming Fourche Maline Creek |
| 🏛️ Design Features | Native stone, live-edge cedar, hand-cut metal signs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Robbers Cave?
Robbers Cave gets its name from the legendary outlaws who used the sandstone caves as hideouts after the Civil War. Famous outlaws including Jesse James, Belle Starr, the Dalton Gang, and the Younger Brothers all reportedly used these caves to escape from law enforcement.
Can you explore the actual caves?
Yes! Visitors can hike to and explore the actual sandstone caves where outlaws once hid. The caves and surrounding rock formations are accessible via hiking trails. Be prepared for some climbing and scrambling—sturdy shoes are recommended.
Can you stay in a covered wagon?
Yes! Robbers Cave offers unique covered wagon lodging for a true Old West glamping experience. The park also offers yurts, rustic CCC-built cabins, and the full-service Robbers Cave Lodge.
Is Robbers Cave one of Oklahoma’s oldest state parks?
Yes! Robbers Cave is one of Oklahoma’s Original Seven state parks, established in 1936 as part of FDR’s New Deal. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built many of the park’s structures beginning in 1933, including the rustic cabins, roads, and Lake Carlton.
Can you bring ATVs to Robbers Cave?
Yes! Robbers Cave has a designated ATV area with off-road vehicle trails. The park also features equestrian trails and an equestrian campground for visitors with horses.
Is there swimming at Robbers Cave?
Yes! The park has both a swimming pool and a swim beach on Lake Carlton. Lake Carlton was created by the CCC when they dammed Fourche Maline Creek in the 1930s.
Step Into Outlaw History
Explore the caves where Jesse James hid, stay in a covered wagon, and experience Oklahoma’s legendary Sans Bois Mountains. Book your outlaw adventure today!
Explore More Oklahoma State Parks
Robbers Cave State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Oklahoma. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Oklahoma guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
