31 Amazing Things to Do in Broken Bow, OK Area
Looking for the Best Things to Do in the Broken Bow Area?
As Oklahomans who have visited the Broken Bow area many times over the years, we’ll highlight 31 top things to do in Broken Bow, OK & the surrounding area, as well as tips for your next Southeastern Oklahoma getaway.
Tucked away amidst the Kiamichi Mountains and the Ouachita National Forest, there are so many epic things to do in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, Hochatown, & Beavers Bend State Park.
Together with Hochatown and Beavers Bend State Park, a gem of Oklahoma has formed. The area’s popularity has sky-rocketed over the years, but don’t worry. It’s still a quaint, yet thriving area.
Note: There is a lot of confusion when it comes to attractions in Broken Bow & Hochatown. Check out this government website, specifying Broken Bow’s city limits, 10 miles south of Hochatown. The Broken Bow zip code is currently used for many rural communities in the area, as shown here.
31 Things to Do in Broken Bow, OK, Hochatown, & Beavers Bend State Park
Let’s jump straight to it. Here are our top 31 things to do in the Broken Bow, Hochatown, and Beavers Bend area when visiting (in no particular order).
Click on the Google Map to access the various sites mentioned below, categorized by type of activity.
Things to Do in Broken Bow & Surrounding Area
1. Kayaking & Canoeing
We can’t visit Broken Bow and not kayak, right?! We tested out a couple of different options east of Broken Bow on U.S. Hwy 70.
Cowboy’s Kayak Rental has some pretty great features about its service. They have FREE hot dogs, popsicles, and lemonade available at the end of your trip down the Mountain Fork River!
We are complete foodies, so this is a match made in heaven in our books. They also have showers and changing rooms available which is another bonus.
If you’re looking for a 3-mile adventure with occasional rapids and a small waterfall dip, check out Yippie Kayo Kayaks. Kids must be at least 42 inches tall and 6 years of age. We’ve traveled with them twice and were impressed both times.
The trip can take anywhere from 2 – 3 hours depending on how many stops you make and how fast you paddle.
We like to pack snacks and lunches in our dry bags. We use a waterproof case to keep our phones, wallets, and keys dry and use a bungee cord to connect it to the kayak. So, if we tip over (worst case) our bags stay safely with the kayak, not floating onward down the river.
Don’t forget your water shoes for these adventures. If you do forget, run by the Wal-Mart in Broken Bow. They usually have them in stock when we’ve unintentionally left them at home in the past.
There are several shallow wading areas and shorelines perfect for picnics along the rocks. If warm enough, you might even feel like a swim! Be prepared though – the water is bitterly cold (in my opinion).
Pro-Tip: Kayaking season typically runs from March through October, depending on water flow and weather. Always call in advance to check current conditions & float service options.
2. Little River National Wildlife Refuge
The Little River National Wildlife Refuge south of Broken Bow is our state’s largest bottomland hardwood forest. It’s a scenic natural area with an observation deck, but the road to it isn’t the best. You need a vehicle that does well on bad roads to get to it.
3. Jefferson Gardner Mansion and Museum
The home and mansion of Jefferson Gardner, “Chief of the Choctaws,” is located east of Broken Bow. He represented both the Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes.
Next to the two-story mansion, are the remains of a 2000-year-old Cypress tree, which was used as a landmark for Choctaws traveling the Trails of Tears. The museum and gift shop are both open to visitors.
Tours for the mansion can be booked as well. Check out their seasonal hours beforehand.
4. Broken Bow City Park
The Broken Bow City Park is home to a large fishing pond, hiking trail, playground, pavilions, senior citizen center, and baseball field.
5. Oka Park & Splash Pad
Located next to the Broken Bow City Park, children can spend hot summer days enjoying Broken Bow’s splash pad!
6. Choctaw Casino Broken Bow
We’ve never been, but Choctaw Casino may need to be on your radar if you enjoy playing slots or table games. It has food options as well!
7. Shopping
Cute shops worth checking out:
8. Coffee Shops
- Gypsy Brew – delicious coffee creations in an adorable shop
9. Ice Cream Shop
- Sloppy Pops – After eating lunch at Brick & Bread, stop in for some yummy ice cream treats!
Things to Do in Beavers Bend State Park
📍 Hochatown community
Beavers Bend State Park is in the Hochatown community, 12 miles north of Broken Bow. Many rural areas & communities surrounding Broken Bow have Broken Bow addresses. Many Broken Bow visitors explore Beavers Bend State Park and Hochatown as well.
10. Hiking
The possibilities seem endless when it comes to hiking in Beavers Bend State Park.
Forest Heritage Tree Trail (Tree Trail)
For lighter family trails, we recommend the Tree Trail. Kids of all ages will delight in the woodsy wonders in any season. The trail is only 1.2 miles long with easy terrain.
Cedar Bluff Trail
The Cedar Bluff Trail is a .9 mile loop that is easy to moderate with varied terrain, but a great hike for older kids. It has fantastic views and intersects with the Skyline Trail and is by the Deer Crossing Trail. The views are worth it.
Skyline Trail
The Skyline Trail is perfect for hikers looking for tougher adventures and lengthier distances. The trail extends for 9.5 miles and features a lake, as well as several creeks. If starting with the Cedar Bluff Trail, it connects and can turn into the Skyline Trail.
The Deer Crossing Trail
The Deer Crossing Trail is another great hike and is rated as moderate. The trail is 3.9 miles long with inclines and meadows, and good chances to see woodland creatures. Go a little further to where it meets up with the Cedar Bluff Trail for a great lookout spot of the Mountain Fork River.
We like to pick up paper maps at the Heritage Center and download offline maps as well while hiking in the Beavers Bend area. Service can be poor and trails have unmarked stretches at times.
11. Broken Bow Lake
Broken Bow Lake is the perfect destination for picnics, camping out, or just kicking back in nature. The lake is 12 miles long with 180 miles of shoreline and is perfect for a variety of water activities such as fishing, jet skiing, and boating.
The lake bottom is mostly made up of rock, making it one of Oklahoma’s clearest lakes. Rent boats or jet skis from Beavers Bend Marina.
Check out The Broken Tiki for relaxing cruises where you can sip your favorite beverage while on board a spacious deck while viewing the lake!
Take a look at the lake’s level and spillway discharge here.
12. Fishing
Fishing in the area is any angler’s sweet escape, whether you’re at the lake or on the river. You can fish for walleye, largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, smallmouth bass, white bass, catfish, and crappie. If you love fly fishing and fishing for trout, head to the Lower Mountain Fork River where it’s stocked year-round.
There are several fishing guides in the area if you’d like some expert assistance. However, we haven’t checked them out ourselves. Check out trout regulations here.
Anyone fishing that is 14 years or older needs to have a valid fishing license. You can get one at the Wal-Mart in Broken Bow or the Beavers Bend State Park office.
Several fishing guides are available for assistance.
13. Swimming
While there is an abundance of opportunities to hop into the lake, a creek, or the Mountain Fork River, there are designated swimming areas in the Beavers Bend State Park.
Beavers Bend Land & Water Park has a swimming area that is open to the public free of charge! Additionally, they rent paddleboats, canoes, paddleboards, and kayaks. They also have mini-golf and concessions available.
The Beach Area is located right off of the Mountain Fork River and Beavers Bend Rd on 17 OK-259A. It’s a great spot to spend the day letting kids swim, picnic, and relax. Canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats are available for rent.
14. Horseback Rides
Beavers Bend Depot and Trail Rides and Riverman Trail Rides are both great options for horseback riding.
Beavers Bend Depot and Trail Rides have horseback trail rides that are about 2.5 miles long and last about 45 minutes. Reservations need to be made ahead of time if possible. They also have a gift shop, concessions, and carousel pony rides as well.
Riverman Trail Rides, west of Hochatown & Broken Bow, have a variety of options! Trail rides need to be reserved and scheduled at least 48 hours in advance. Trail rides can be anywhere from 1 hour to 3 hours.
Hour-long wagon rides are also available and are pretty perfect for seeing the views but from the back of a wagon! They also have a fishing package where you can spend the day catching and releasing in their private fishing river.
15. Beavers Bend State Park Nature Center
The park’s Nature Center is located in Beavers Bend Resort Park and hosts activities and programs daily at no charge. Programs might include arts and crafts classes, campfire programs along the river, nature hikes, and nature films.
16. Beaver’s Bend Forest Heritage Center Museum & Gift Shop
The Forest Heritage Center Museum is located in Beavers Bend State Park. It has free admission and is open every day, year-round.
It holds historical documents, antique forestry tools, wood art, a research library, large dioramas, a 100-year-old cabin, and a bronze sculpture, honoring Jim Burnett, the first forest firefighter from Oklahoma to lose his life while fighting forest fire.
17. Cedar Creek Golf Course
18 holes of golfing bliss are located at Cedar Creek Golf Course. The course features a putting green, driving range, pro shop with rentals, and concessions.
Things To Do In Hochatown, OK
Hochatown was once an unincorporated community north of Broken Bow. In November of 2022, residents voted to officially incorporate and become a town after years of work. It runs along U.S. Highway 259 just west of Beavers Bend State Park. Hochatown is home to many businesses and attractions and draws thousands of visitors each weekend. Learn more about our Hochatown recommendations here.
18. Beavers Bend Wildlife Museum
Beavers Bend Wildlife Museum is located at the entrance to Beavers Bend State Park off U.S. Highway 259. It showcases lifelike exhibits of forest animals native to the area.
19. Beavers Bend Safari Park
Beavers Bend Safari Park features a drive-thru animal park with many species of animals, such as Kudus and Bongos, on a 90-acre plot of land. They also have a couple of cabins that you can rent in the actual park and see the animals up close during your stay!
20. Hochatown Rescue Center and Petting Zoo
Hochatown Rescue Center and Petting Zoo is an animal rescue and petting zoo that kids of all ages (and adults) will enjoy!
They have a large variety of animals, including farm animals, birds, reptiles, and some exotic animals. You might see cuddly kittens or a raccoon!
They are a licensed wildlife rehabilitation center with a focus on animal welfare education, and they do accept donations. Check out their Facebook page for more information.
21. The Maze of Hochatown
The Maze of Hochatown is a 29,000-square-foot wooden maze, perfect for those who like to get lost (but in a fun way). You will have to find your way out and hunt for all of the clues to solve a puzzle at the end. Don’t worry. They have staff prepared to assist you if needed.
Also, they have water and soft drinks available at their gift shop and mini-golf is an option for an extra cost. Expect to spend $16-$20 per ticket and to spend around 2 hours at the establishment.
22. Bowling Alley – Gutter Chaos
Gutter Chaos is a family entertainment center and full-service restaurant. A few lanes for bowling are available, along with pool tables, an arcade, and an outdoor patio and games. It’s a great place to take the whole family but has a bar as well and karaoke in the evenings.
A lot of places close earlier in the evening in the area, but Gutter Chaos is open until 10pm on weeknights, 11pm on the weekends, and is only closed on Tuesdays. It’s an often-missed gem for all ages!
23. Hochatown Amusements
Another great spot for some family fun is Hochatown Amusements. Go-karts, a mini golf course, and fair food are all right there, in the heart of Hochatown. Expect closures during the slower, winter months.
24. Train Rides
Whether you’re looking for a train ride or a horse ride, Beavers Bend Depot & Trail Rides is a great place to get to do both! Train rides last about 20 minutes and go through the neighboring forest and continue throughout the day.
Reservations need to be made for the trail rides, which are about 2.5 miles long and last about 45 minutes. They do have a gift shop, concessions, and carousel pony rides as well.
25. UTV Rentals
There are several options in the area. Bandits ATV have come highly recommended, but we personally haven’t tried them out yet. Check out this guide for Broken Bow UTV trails and maps on the Ouachita National Forest’s website.
Make sure the rental company you choose has good knowledge of local trails and rules and regulations in the area.
26. BigFoot Speedway
BigFoot Speedway is a family-oriented establishment featuring go-karts, snocones, and a ride called the BigFoot 360. It’s ideal for kids of all ages, and adults too!
27. Hochatown Escape Games
Have a super sleuth in your family? Hochatown Escape Games might be the perfect activity for you. Reservations can be made online and rooms are private. It’s great for all ages and abilities. Your group will have 1 hour to hunt for clues, solve puzzles, and escape whichever game room you choose.
They have a Scavenger Hunt available which takes you around the Beavers Bend State Park area!
Bigfoot Axe Throwing is also located at the Hochatown Escape Games as well.
Our family hasn’t checked out this attraction yet, but we plan to on our next visit!
28. Old West Town Mini-Golf
This creative mini-golf experience takes you to the time of the Old West, where you play golf surrounded by an Old West theme, such as a country store, blacksmith shop, and post office. The atmosphere is set to take you back in time! They use authentic antiques from the 1800s and are constantly adding on each year.
29. Rugaru Adventures Ziplining Tour
Experience breathtaking views while zip-lining in Hochatown. You just can’t beat the mountainous background. Staff are certified and trained and prepared to help adventurers of all ages, however the weight restrictions are 70-250 pounds.
There are 6 lines total and it usually takes about 1.5 – 2 hours to complete, from orientation to the end. Check out their site for more information.
30. Beavers Bend Mining Company
This is a super cool experience for young kids. If they love hunting for treasure, they’ll have a great time. Located in Hochatown, your kids can spend time playing and learning as they mine for gems, dig for dinosaur bones, and wax their hands at Beavers Bend Mining Company.
31. Broken Bow Slingshot Rentals
Broken Bow Slingshot Rentals allows drivers that are 25 and older to rent 3-wheeled Slingshots with unlimited miles! It’s an Auto-Cycle vehicle that’s not a car and not a motorcycle, but something sporty and fun to drive!
Where to Eat In Broken Bow, Oklahoma
There are several great dining options in Broken Bow. You can find chains like Sonic and Pizza Hut or something unique to the area as well. If you’re looking for places to eat in Hochatown, check out our post here.
📍 Papa Poblanos Broken Bow – We enjoy eating here after kayaking. It’s on the edge of town. Their queso is tasty, and that’s key for us!
📍 Oaks Steak House & Gifts – delicious variety of food including steak, seafood, & a salad bar in a warm, rustic cabin atmosphere
📍 Donut Crossing – I’m a sucker for yummy donuts & this hit the spot! It’s a great breakfast option.
📍 Brick & Bread – yummy soups & sandwiches
Where to Stay When Visiting Broken Bow
Cabins
There are so many fantastic options when it comes to cabin rentals! Choosing something in your budget with a good cancellation policy and/or travel insurance is vital, in case the worst should happen and you can’t make it last minute.
What Should I Bring to Broken Bow, OK?
Depending on your accommodation of choice, pack for the weather and the terrain. We typically visit in the spring and fall. A few of our recommended items:
- camera
- light backpacks
- reusable water bottles
- light jacket
- lifejackets (We like to bring our own for the kids.)
- fishing gear
- sunscreen
- water shoes
- external battery for cell phone (you’ll likely be out all day with no place to charge)
- comfortable walking shoes or hiking shoes
- hat / beanie
How to Get to Broken Bow, OK
Travel times will depend on where you’re traveling from. Typical expected travel times from nearby cities include:
📍 From Oklahoma City, OK: 219 miles (a little under 4 hours)
📍 From Tulsa, OK: 198 miles (a little over 3 hours)
📍 From Dallas, TX: 169 miles (about 3 hours)
📍 From Little Rock, AR: 167 miles (about 3 hours)
Note: Hochatown is about a 10-minute drive north of Broken Bow.
When To Go To Broken Bow, Hochatown, & Beavers Bend
The Broken Bow area is a treat year-round, but if you have specific activities in mind, there are prime seasons.
🛶 Kayaking: Water sports such as kayaking are best between late April and October. Openings & closures will begin depending on water levels and temperature, so be sure to call in advance if these activities are must-do’s on your list.
🍁 Fall foilage: Late October & Early November are best, depending on several factors such as rainfall and seasons of drought. Call the Beavers Bend State Park office in advance to see if they have a current prediction.
🍷 Shopping & Dining: These establishments are often open year-round, but check out hours beforehand. Many places close just before and right after the weekend.
Personally, we prefer visiting during spring, early summer, and fall. The weather is typically mild and enjoyable, and most activities are available so options aren’t as limited.
However, many families visit during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons to be able to celebrate the holidays together in fun, festive, woodsy settings.
What is Broken Bow, OK Known For? Some Facts.
- Broken Bow, Hochatown, and Beavers Bend State Park are all in the foothills of the Kiamichi Mountains, surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. Encircled by a lush, majestic landscape, this area has 14,000 acres for boating, fishing, or shopping. Broken Bow Lake’s 180-mile-long shoreline is perfect for outdoor water activities of all kinds.
- Originally one of Oklahoma’s first seven state parks, Beavers Bend State Park was established in 1937 by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
- The Chickasaw and Choctaw Trail of Tears wound through the area. Their rich history is preserved through museums in the area as well as the stories of local residents.
- As of 2022, Hochatown is no longer an unincorporated community, but a 11-square-mile strip of town! The combination of Hochatown, Broken Bow, and Beavers Bend State Park combine to create the wonderful retreat that so many enjoy.
- Some places close down during the winter months, so be sure to check in with the spots that pique your interest before booking your trip.
Wrap-Up: Things to Do in Broken Bow, OK & Surrounding Area
Broken Bow, Hochatown, and Beavers Bend State Park have always provided special experiences for us. It was in the woods of Beavers Bend State Park that Heath proposed, and it was the first place we traveled to as a couple so many years ago. Every time we visit gives way to a new adventure.
Whether you’re looking for a family trip with kids in tow, a rustic romantic getaway, or a quiet escape, the Broken Bow area might just be the perfect spot for you.
It is truly one of our top places in Oklahoma to continue visiting again and again. There are so many wonderful things to do in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, and its surrounding area. Let us know if we missed something that you absolutely love and recommend. We will check it out!
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