Yellowstone Wiped This Oklahoma National Park Off The Map

Yellowstone is at the top of the list as one of the most essential American experiences you should try when visiting the US. It’s no wonder why the national park is one of the most visited. Yellowstone has its own Grand Canyon, geysers and other hydrothermal attractions, plus there’s a variety of things to do in Yellowstone other than hiking.

Yellowstone was established in 1872 as the world’s first national park. Today, it’s one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Spanning over 2.2 million acres, visitors have boundless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Renowned for its unparalleled beauty and biodiversity, Yellowstone boasts the largest concentration of wildlife in the lower 48 states, and the park also contains about half the world’s active geysers.

While Yellowstone’s unparalleled beauty draws significant crowds, attracting a staggering 4.7 million visitors in 2024, this can be overwhelming for those seeking solitude in nature.

For those who want a quieter escape to nature, consider exploring former national parks and hidden gems, such as the Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Oklahoma. Prior to its demotion, when it was known as Platt National Park, it surpassed all other parks in popularity. In 1914, it drew more visitors than Yellowstone and other expansive national parks of the time!

The History Of Platt National Park

The transformation from Platt National Park to Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Before Yellowstone claimed the crown as America’s most iconic national park, Platt National Park in Oklahoma was a hidden gem that drew hoards of visitors annually because of the natural springs that were believed to have healing properties.

Established in 1906, this Oklahoma oasis became the seventh national park in the country. Originally, the land was owned by the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations but sold to the government to protect and preserve the area’s sulphur springs.

Located near Sulphur, Oklahoma, the park grew in popularity due to its forests, cold-water creeks, and abundance of outdoor activities in a serene environment that rivaled larger parks like Yellowstone National Park.

Platt was the only national park for hundreds of miles and provided cool creeks and respite during the hot summer months. However, Platt’s understated charm couldn’t compete with the magnificence of larger parks.

In 1976, Platt lost its designation as a national park and was renamed the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Unlike other parks, it was small and did not feature significant natural landmarks like mountains or major rivers. This made it difficult for Platt to stand out on a national level.

However, all was not lost in the transition. The park’s redesignation allowed for an expansion and merged with the Arbuckle Recreation Area and other areas, including Lake of the Arbuckles and Veterans Lake.

Top Things To Do At Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Swim, hike, and explore the springs and lakes at this former national park

The Chickasaw National Recreation Area is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers searching for affordable vacations in scenic US towns. It’s also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts since it features lakes and some of the clearest swimming holes in the south.

During the summer months, visitors flock here for the spring-fed streams, including Travertine Creek’s cascading stone pools, which are perfect for a refreshing dip during the sweltering heat. Lake of the Arbuckles and Veterans Lake also provide ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking.

For hikers, the park offers over 20 miles of trails that weave through forests, open meadows, and around serene springs. Popular hikes include the Travertine Creek Trail and the Antelope Spring Trail, the latter being an easy hike with scenic views of the park’s remaining natural springs.

For a more moderately challenging route, opt for the Bison Pasture Loop. This trail is over two miles long round trip and will lead you to the Bison Pasture Viewpoint, where you may see some wild bison if you are lucky.

Why Visit Chickasaw National Recreation Area Today?

This Oklahoma oasis remains a tranquil alternative to crowded national parks

Although it no longer holds the title of a national park, Chickasaw National Recreation Area remains a must-see destination for those seeking a quieter, closer connection with nature. Its visitor count may seem modest compared to Yellowstone, but the lack of crowds allows for a more personal experience.

Unlike larger parks that struggle with over-tourism and environmental issues, the recreational area offers a well-maintained landscape and strong preservation measures that continue to thrive.

Its historical and cultural significance to Native American communities, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a unique destination for travelers looking to explore America’s lesser-known national treasures.

Whether you’re hiking, swimming in Travertine Creek, or enjoying a quiet afternoon by the lake, Chickasaw National Recreation Area offers a peaceful escape that has stood the test of time despite its name change.

The recreational area is located about halfway between Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Dallas, Texas, making it the perfect getaway for the weekend.

• Address: 901 W. 1st Street, Sulphur, OK 73086
• Campgrounds: Six campgrounds that provide over 400 campsites
• Hours: Open 24/7

For a serene getaway steeped in history and natural beauty, Chickasaw National Recreation Area proves you don’t need a national park designation to experience something extraordinary.