1. Oklahoma City – Urban Nature & Scenic Views
Myriad Botanical Gardens: A lush urban oasis located right in downtown Oklahoma City. The gardens feature beautifully landscaped areas, a tropical conservatory, and walking paths, making it a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
Lake Hefner: A scenic lake with walking and biking trails, fishing opportunities, and great bird-watching. It's a peaceful spot to enjoy the outdoors and get some fresh air after exploring the city.
Scissortail Park: A massive green space with ponds, walking trails, and native plants. The park has plenty of open areas for relaxing or enjoying a picnic, and the views of the city skyline make it a great spot for nature lovers.
2. Arcadia – Natural Beauty on Route 66
Turner Falls Park: Located in the Arbuckle Mountains, Turner Falls is one of the state's most stunning natural attractions. The 77-foot waterfall is surrounded by hiking trails, picnic areas, and swimming spots, perfect for nature lovers who enjoy both relaxation and adventure.
Lake Arcadia: This 1,800-acre lake near Oklahoma City offers boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. The surrounding Arcadia Lake Recreation Area is great for wildlife watching, especially birds and waterfowl.
3. Luther – Explore the Prairie and Wildlife
Route 66 Park: This beautiful park is a tranquil stop along Route 66, featuring scenic walking trails and natural habitats for wildlife. It’s a great place for bird-watching, especially during migration seasons.
The Prairie: Oklahoma’s native prairie is one of the most iconic landscapes along the route. Stop at scenic overlooks or take short hikes to enjoy the vast, open expanses and spot local wildlife.
4. Tulsa – A Blend of Nature and Cityscapes
Oxley Nature Center: Located in Tulsa’s Tulsa Zoo and Park, Oxley offers scenic hiking trails, marshlands, and forested areas. It’s a peaceful retreat from the city, where you can enjoy bird-watching, wildflowers, and the beauty of the Arkansas River.
Tulsa River Parks Trails: Enjoy a relaxing walk or bike ride along the Arkansas River in Tulsa, with dedicated trails, parks, and plenty of spots for bird-watching and observing nature. The riverfront is an excellent place to experience the beauty of Oklahoma's diverse ecosystems.
5. Sapulpa – Explore the Creek
Sapulpa Creek: Along Route 66 in Sapulpa, you’ll find scenic spots along the creek that are perfect for nature walks, fishing, or just relaxing by the water. The creek is a calm, tranquil spot to enjoy a bit of solitude and appreciate Oklahoma’s natural beauty.
6. Claremore – Rolling Hills and Scenic Views
Claremore Lake: This is a quiet spot for fishing, picnicking, or just soaking in the natural surroundings. The lake is surrounded by wooded hills and offers peaceful views—ideal for nature lovers who prefer a slower pace.
Will Rogers Memorial Park: Take a walk around this park to see beautiful gardens and enjoy the views of the surrounding area. The park also has walking trails, making it an easy spot to enjoy nature while learning about the history of Will Rogers.
7. Vinita – Gateway to the Verdant Ozarks
Cherokee Springs Plaza: A peaceful park near Vinita, it offers walking trails, gardens, and a lovely space to unwind. You can walk through lush landscapes and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
Grand Lake of the Cherokees: About a 30-minute drive from Route 66, this lake offers numerous recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife watching in a beautiful Ozarks setting.
8. Miami – Gateway to the Ozarks and Wildlife Viewing
Twin Bridges State Park: Located near Miami, this state park offers a serene atmosphere with hiking, fishing, and camping. The park is nestled in the beautiful Ozark hills, making it a prime spot for hiking and nature photography.
Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA): Enjoy the natural surroundings of this river and lake area, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts interested in fishing, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water.
9. Tulsa to Miami – The Ozarks and Verdant Hills
Ozark Scenic Byway: If you’re a nature lover, take the detour through the Ozarks, just north of Route 66, and explore the beautiful rolling hills, thick forests, and clear rivers that make this area a paradise for outdoor lovers.
Rocky Mountain Nature Preserve: Perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration, this preserve offers trails with beautiful vistas of the Ozarks, wildflowers, and native plants.
10. Natural Bridges and Caves
Natural Falls State Park: A scenic detour near the Ozark foothills, this park is home to the stunning Natural Falls, a 77-foot waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s a peaceful spot for hiking, bird-watching, and photography.
Alabaster Caverns State Park: If you're willing to venture a bit off Route 66, this park near Freedom, OK, features the largest gypsum cave in the U.S., offering cave tours where you can explore underground beauty. The surrounding parkland is also a great spot for hiking and camping.
11. Explore the Wild Prairies
The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve: Though a bit off Route 66, the Tallgrass Prairie is a must-see for nature lovers interested in seeing one of the last remaining prairies in the U.S. This natural landscape is home to bison, prairie dogs, and many bird species.
Nature Tips for Route 66 in Oklahoma:
Wildlife Watching: Oklahoma offers great opportunities for bird-watching, especially in areas like Oxley Nature Center and the Tallgrass Prairie. Keep an eye out for eagles, falcons, and migratory birds.
Sunset Views: The wide open spaces of Oklahoma make it perfect for watching stunning sunsets. Find a quiet spot in nature—maybe near one of the lakes or parks—and enjoy the peaceful end to a day of exploring.
Hiking: Oklahoma has numerous trails and parks for hiking, offering everything from short, easy hikes to longer, more challenging trails. Be sure to bring water, comfortable shoes, and your camera to capture the natural beauty.