6 Reasons Broken Bow Should Make Your Travel List

US DestinationsOklahoma
Written By Frank Patranella
 

You may have never heard of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, but this area is a rising star in the world of nature getaways. With camping sites, RV spots, and over 2,600 cabins to choose from, this area is a camper’s (or glamper’s) dream. And did I mention that there is a pristine state park and lake? If you aren’t hooked yet, the following six reasons why Broken Bow should make your travel list will certainly have you ready to pack your bags.

First, let’s situate where Broken Bow is located in the U.S.: Click HERE to see Google Maps. It can be a little confusing because there is both a town and a lake named Broken Bow, and because of this, many people refer to this area in southeastern Oklahoma simply as Broken Bow. To be more specific though, the majority of the cabins and recreational activities are situated north of the town of Broken Bow in a place called Hochatown (pronounced how-chuh-town) which is adjacent to Beavers Bend State Park and Broken Bow Lake. The larger region of Oklahoma that deserves to be explored is McCurtain County. Be sure to check out Visit McCurtain County to find up-to-date adventures and amenities. Since most people refer to the area as Broken Bow, I will use that name in this post, but it is important to note that there is much more to McCurtain County than the town of Broken Bow and Broken Bow Lake.

Reason #1: The Mountain Fork River

Mountain Fork Just Below the Dam

The Mountain Fork River forms in the Ouachita Mountains north of Broken Bow Lake and meanders 98 miles until it joins with the Little River about 10 miles south of the town of Broken Bow. The Mountain Fork River is divided into two sections:

Upper Mountain Fork River: The 31.7 miles of the river north of Broken Bow Lake is referred to as the Upper Mountain Fork River. This section is outstanding for canoeing and kayaking since the water is typically still. The waters along this stretch are rated as Class I and II rapids, and water levels maintain an adequate height for boating year-round. Smallmouthed bass and other species can be fished in this section of the river.

Lower Mountain Fork River: The section of the river below Broken Bow Lake is called the Lower Mountain Fork River. From the Broken Bow Dam, the waters flow 18.9 miles to where the river joins with the Little River. The waters of the Lower Mountain Fork River are constantly flowing and considered whitewater. Kayaking is popular on this stretch of the river, but paddlers must navigate waterfalls with a four-foot drop. Fishing for Rainbow and Brown Trout is a draw to this area. For your flyfishing needs, contact Beavers Bend Fly Shop, and if you want to rent canoes or kayaks, get in touch with Beavers Bend River Floats.

Kayak Rental Docks in Beavers Bend State Park

Several hikes in Beavers Bend State Park go along sections of the river: My favorite river trails are the Friends Loop Trail and the Beaver Lodge Nature Trail. There are also many camping sites in the park that give direct access to the river. Dogwood, Fern, and Acorn campgrounds have the best river views - in my opinion. Check with Travel Oklahoma for amenities offered these sites and other sites available for camping.

Reason #2: Pine Forests Offer Year-Round Color

Even in the dead of winter, there is still color in the forests around McCurtain County because of all of the pine trees in the area. There are protected forests such as the Ouachita National Forest and Beavers Bend State Park Forest, and these are beautiful acres filled with lush pines and hardwood trees. Also, the area is known for its logging history. Weyerhaeuser is the company that owns and manages the planting, maintaining, and harvesting of tracts of pine trees around McCurtain County. Their efforts to plant more trees than they remove makes this part of Oklahoma even more beautiful. We as visitors get to enjoy the benefits of the preserved forests and those being planted - making Broken Bow colorful in all seasons.

Because of the Pines, Even Driving in Winter is Stunning

To learn more about the forests and the history of this region, visit the Forest Heritage Center while in Broken Bow. It is a small museum, but it is great for kids and to gain a deeper understanding about the growth and use of the forests in the area. If you are interested in knowing more about the history of Broken Bow, see the Broken Bow Chamber of Commerce site.

TIP: The rich emerald color of the pines is not the only eye-pleasing sight in the forests near Broken Bow. If you visit in the spring, you will be treated to the beauty of the many dogwood trees in the area. The dogwood blooms are so special in this area, that there is a festival called Dogwood Days each April to celebrate these beautiful and beloved trees. Check the Travel OK to see if you can align your trip with Dogwood Days.

Reason #3: Broken Bow Lake

Broken Bow Overlook

In the 1960s the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers built a dam on the Mountain Fork River forming Broken Bow Lake. The lake stretches 22 miles and is heavily forested which makes it a wildlife-watcher’s paradise. There are many species of birds including Bald Eagles, black bears, white-tailed deer, bobcats, coyotes, and wild turkeys in this region because of the dense forests and abundant fresh water sources. Drive slow near the lake and you will likely spot wildlife.

Since the lake was built by the Army Corps of Engineers, there are not cabins or homes built directly on the lake. This makes views of the lake even more stunning and unspoiled. Some of my favorite lake view spots are the following (click on the site to see where it is located):

Crystal Point at Sunrise

Although the lake is alluring from the shore, it is even better when you get out on the water. Bring your own boat and jet skis or rent them - but explore the lake’s many coves and inlets. Rentals can be reserved at The Beavers Bend Marina. If sipping cocktails on a lake tour is more your speed, check out The Broken Tiki tours.

Reason #4: Hochatown Food and Brews

Over the past ten years, the main drive through Hochatown on Highway 259 has added many restaurants, breweries, shopping, and family fun activities. When you are tired from hiking or being out on the water, you can visit some of these local hangouts.

Muffins from Okie Girls

  • Grateful Head Pizza: Their dough is the best! One of my favorite places!

  • Mountain Fork Brewery: Have a beer and a burger. Great vibe and sizeable portions.

  • The Hochatown Saloon: Southern cooking in an old-western style restaurant.

  • Stephen’s Gap: Laid-back atmosphere - my usual breakfast diner.

  • Abendigo’s: Who doesn’t love live music and pool tables?

  • Blue Rooster Fry House - chicken strips… enough said!

  • Okie Girls: Coffee, ice cream, and the BEST muffins! I love the carrot muffin - YUM!

  • Swamp Booger Mercantile: The food is tasty, but you have to try the fudge and mini cakes.

There are so many other options for food - try one of the ones above or find your own favorite. If you want to “get your drink on”, Hochatown has you covered. Into wine? Go to FishTales Winery, Voija’s Winery, or Girls Gone Wine. Beer more your style? You will enjoy a cold one at Beavers Bend Brewery or the Mountain Fork Brewery. I didn’t forget the whiskey…. try out The Tasting Room or Hochatown Distillery. So many options for you and your loved one or for your group of friends.

Reason #5: Beavers Bend State Park

So, how could I not mention Beavers Bend State Park? The 1,300-acre park is the heart of Broken Bow, and I feel immediately at ease when I see the Beavers Bend signs off of Highway 259.. There are two main parts of the park: the Beavers Bend Area and the Hochatown Area. Click HERE to see a park map.

Beavers Bend Section: This part of the park is situated on several curves of the Mountain Fork River - just south of the dam. Following Highway 259 A will take you on a loop through this area. Fly fishing, canoeing/kayaking, hiking, and camping are the main areas of focus in this part of the park. You will also find Foggy Bottom Kitchen and the Beavers Bend Nature Center are in the center of the park. There is even horseback riding and a train in the park. Tip: at dusk, you can often see white-tailed deer near the train depot.

Hochatown Area of the Park: There are a couple of other entrances to the park off of 259 that are north of the Beavers Bend main area. These are definitely worth exploring, and to gain access to swimming beaches and boat ramps, this area is key. The Stephen’s Gap Area has several viewpoints, the Lakeview Lodge, camping areas, and the marina. The Carson Creek Area offers camping, boat ramps, and swimming areas. Finally, the Cedar Creek Golf Course is a beautifully maintained, 18-hole course set among the pines.

I love hiking in the park because it is hilly and picturesque. I mentioned the Friends Loop Trail and Beavers Lodge Trail under Reason #1 above, but there are more trails to explore besides these two. For the adventurous hikers, the 9.5 mile Skyline Trail is a challenge because it is steep in places and has several water crossings. The Lakeview Lodge Trail is another favorite. There are shorter and longer options - it is rated moderate and is a relaxing trail through the forest. Also, the Cedar Bluff Nature Trail is worth your time. It is a 0.9-mile, moderate trail that is fairly popular. Hiking is a perfect way to spend time in the park and the exercise makes it easier to have that beer later.

Reason #6: Living on Hochatime

There is a saying in this area - “living on Hochatime” - which means that you. are not in a hurry and enjoying life. This is the best reason to come to Broken Bow! You can spend the day doing everything or nothing at all, and it will be wonderful.

Doing Nothing at the Cabin: The cabins in this area are incredible and perfect for that laid back vibe of southeastern Oklahoma. Most have firepits, porches, and hot tubs for you to unwind with family or friends. Cook a meal, grill, ore have S’mores if you don’t feel like going out. Bring your hammock and waste the day swinging between two pines. It truly is up to you! Hochatime is YOUR time.

Shopping Time: If you want to wander through shops (after wandering in the forest), you can spend your time looking at unique gift shops and decor stores. Here are a few places that I enjoy walking through when I am in town:

Looking for a Spa: There are a couple options if you want to pamper yourself while in the area. Treetop Wellness Spa offers massages, facials, exfoliating treatments, and even will arrange a massage on a sunset cruise on the lake. Also consider Body Harmony Spa. They specialize in mud masks, scalp massages, hand treatments and more.

Fun For All: Looking for something to do together as a group or family? There are many activities that are fun for everyone to enjoy while you are “living on Hochatime”. Here are a few of the many options for bonding time:

Your trip is what you want it to be in Broken Bow. You can be as busy and active as you want, or you can just enjoy being surrounded by nature.

So, Are You Convinced?

These were just six reasons why I love this area of the U.S., and I feel confident that it is an outstanding place for any kind of traveler: solo adventurer, family fun, girls’ getaway, guys fishing trip, couples romantic travel, etc. Only 3 hours from Dallas, Texas, 3.5 hours from Oklahoma City or Tulsa, Oklahoma, 3 hours from Shreveport, Louisiana, and 3 hours from Little Rock, Arkansas, this is a wonderful spot for those living in states bordering Oklahoma, and it is also a great idea to stop in Broken Bow to rest for a couple of days if you are planning a road trip across the central United States. Hope to see you in Hochatown or out hiking in Beavers Bend soon.

Make Your Reservations Today

Sometimes choosing a cabin can be overwhelming because there are so many options. There are a multitude of rental agencies in the area, and most of them provide great service. There are two that really stand out in my experience: Lakewood Luxury Cabins and Lake Life Cabins. These agencies are not the largest in the area, but the cabins they host are impeccably clean, beautifully decorated, and jive with my design style. My family has a cabin in the area named Idle Bliss - to check it out click HERE.

When you are searching on Airbnb or VRBO, you may want to consider some questions about the cabins you are considering:

Asking these questions will ensure you have the cabin experience you are looking for while in Broken Bow. Where you choose to stay can make a big difference while on vacation. Find a place that suits your travel style and your needs.

“Hochatime State of Mind” - Be sure to check out more content on the Pines and Coastlines site! We also have tools to help you plan trips to destinations other than Broken Bow.

Be sure to follow us on social media and use #pinesandcoastlines to share your Broken Bow adventures with us.

 
Frank Patranella
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