Kiamichi Country, Oklahoma
Tuskahoma, Bokchito, Kiamichi, Little River and Moon. Even the map reads like poetry in Southern Oklahoma, a timeless world where the gentle Ouachita mountains are shaded blue and rivers run wild. The name Ouachita comes from the Choctaw words Owa chito which means "big hunt" -- a tribute to the abundance of wildlife that still holds true. Deer, owls, raccoons, bobcats, red and gray fox and a hundred species of birds still flourish in the pristine wilderness; flying squirrels skitter along the treetops and black bears lumber out in spring to sun themselves on rocks. When the federal government relocated the Choctaw tribe to Indian Territory in the 1830s, Chief Pushmataha declared: "We have acquired from the U.S. here the best remaining territory west of the Mississippi." The natural barriers of the Winding Stair Mountains, the southern Kiamichis, the Jack Fork and San Bois Mountains created a remote world in southeastern Oklahoma, green and deep as the inside of an emerald. Moss beards the cypress trees that grow on the banks of the Mountain Fork River in Beavers Bend Resort Park and pine needles carpet the forest floor.
Explore Kiamichi Country
Robber's Cave SP Nature Trails
Trails which lead through the short-leaf pine forest appeal to birders and other nature lovers. Robbers Cave is home to cardinals, chickadees, titmice, bluejays and other Oklahoma songbirds. Careful observers may catch a glimpse of the park'
, OK Hiking TrailsOklahoma Prison Historical Museum
The Oklahoma Prison Historical Museum is the state's only museum detailing the history of Oklahoma's prison system. Exhibits include an actual ball and chain, "Ol Sparky," Oklahoma's electric chair, items owned by prisoners, and numerous historical photos.
McAlester, OK MuseumsRobber's Cave SP Equestrian Trails
For those who want to explore on horseback, Robbers Cave State Park has nearly 50
, OK EquestrianCity of Murals
Tour downtown Idabel and see the murals painted by Idabel artist, Betty Helms, and her students. One mural is dedicated to Native American culture and another to dogwoods. Idabel'
Idabel, OK ArtsCarlton Lake
Located in Robber's Cave State Park, facilities include boat ramp, campsites, picnic area, grills, restrooms, playground, group shelter, drinking water & concessions, nature trail & paddle boats, canoes, and yakanoes. Shoreline length: 2
Wilburton, OK RecreationBeavers Bend RV and Tent Camping
For the camper or RV owner, the Beavers Bend Resort Park maintains 15 primitive camping areas, six semi-modern areas (electric and water hookups), and two modern areas (electric, water, sewer hookups and nearby bath house and dump station). All sites have toilet facilities;
, OK CampingWheelock Church
The old rock Wheelock church is the oldest church building in Oklahoma, built in 1846. Across the road is a cemetery, the final resting place of reverend Alfred Wright, physician and missionary to the Choctaw Indians who translated the New Testament and many other books into their native language.
Broken Bow, OK Historic ChurchesSaints Cyril & Methodius Orthodox Christian Church
This church was established in America in 1897 by Slavic immigrants from western Russia and eastern Europe. A member of the Diocese of the South Orthodox Church, this Christian Temple erected in 1916, is a beautiful and unique example of Orthodox Church architecture. Tours.
Hartshorne, OK Historic ChurchesJ. I. Stipe Recreational Center
The J.I. Stipe Recreational Center features separate exercise rooms for men and women each with equipment, showers, lockers and saunas. There is a racquetball court and basketball court as well as swimming pool. The Senior Citizens Center facilities included cafeteria, kitchen, and game room.
McAlester, OK Recreation