Turner Falls is said to be the tallest waterfall in Oklahoma. It’s a great place for a weekend getaway. In late summer and early autumn, the weather is still quite hot, but it’s much cooler at the top of the mountain. The scenery up there is beautiful, and there are tent rentals available. At the base of the mountain, there are villas and cabins, some even with private yards. Staying for a short period is a nice way to escape the noise of city life. The water is very clear, and from the waterfall down to the lower streams, everything is crystal clear. It’s about a little over 2 hours’ drive from Plano. The waterfall itself is small but very clean and refreshing. After entering the park, you can park at Level 1 and walk less than 10 minutes to reach it. Parking is currently free. It’s recommended to wear beach shoes if you plan to go into the water, although you can also go barefoot if you don’t mind rough surfaces. There is also a zoo nearby within about a 10-minute drive, since it’s all in the same area. And I highly recommend trying the pie while you’re there.
Turner Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Turner Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Turner Falls famous?
Turner Falls is Oklahoma's tallest waterfall at 77 feet and has been a popular tourist destination since 1878, making it one of the oldest tourist attractions in Oklahoma. The park and falls are named after Mazeppa Thomas Turner, a farmer who settled the area in the 1870s.
Can you swim at Turner Falls?
Yes. Swimming is permitted in the natural pools at Turner Falls Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Turner Falls?
Dogs allowed on-leash in the park but not permitted in swimming areas. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Turner Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Park entry fee applies (fees vary by age and day of week; typically around $12-15 per person). Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Turner Falls?
Parking is available inside Turner Falls Park near the main entrance and falls area. Park entry fee includes parking. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Turner Falls?
Roadside access – the falls are visible and accessible with minimal walking (under 0.2 km) from the parking areas within the park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Turner Falls hike difficulty
Easy/Roadside – minimal walking on mostly paved or established paths from parking to the falls viewing and swimming areas. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Turner Falls?
Spring (March–May) for highest flow from winter and spring rains, though summer (June–August) is most popular for swimming despite lower flow. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Turner Falls
From the main parking area, walk a short distance down toward Honey Creek. The falls are immediately visible and accessible. Swimming areas are at the base of the falls. Visitors can wade and swim in the natural pools. Additional trails within the park lead to caves and other scenic spots.
Turner Falls official website
Attractions near Turner Falls
- •Arbuckle Mountains – scenic mountain range with hiking trails and geological formations
- •Chickasaw National Recreation Area – natural springs, swimming areas, and hiking trails
- •Honey Creek Area – natural swimming holes and cascades within Turner Falls Park
- •Natural Falls State Park – another waterfall about 2 hours north near the Oklahoma-Arkansas border
- •Lake of the Arbuckles – fishing, boating, and water recreation nearby
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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