Visit These Incredible State Parks Near Our Communities

At Homes by Taber, we make it our mission to build remarkable communities throughout some of the best areas near Oklahoma City and Tulsa—and we place a strong emphasis on the surrounding natural beauty and outdoor activities for our homeowners to enjoy and take part in while living in their forever homes. With the rising temperatures and increase in sunshine, there’s no better time than now to get outside and explore the outdoors—and there are no better places to do so than the incredible state parks near our Homes by Taber communities. 

While the great state of Oklahoma is known for its fascinating pioneer history and the one-of-a-kind cowboy culture, its excellent state parks make for breathtaking hidden gems that are filled with wonderful sights to see for both residents and visitors. In 2020, the Oklahoma Legislature authorized $48.6 million in bonds for Parks to use for capital improvement, which demonstrates the commitment the state has towards these landmarks. Whether you’re looking to see the spectacular Great Plains, the stunning forests in eastern Oklahoma or the glistening lakes settled in the foothills of the Ozarks—there are a number of impressive state parks near our Homes by Taber communities where anyone can feel extra in-tune with nature. Continue reading to find the ultimate state park guide for amazing day-trips or week-long destinations that the entire family can enjoy. 

Stop by the picturesque Keystone State Park

Situated just west of Tulsa on the gorgeous Keystone Lake lies Keystone State Park—filled with endless natural beauty to admire and activities to enjoy. With just about an hour-and-a-half drive from OKC and a 20-minute drive from Tulsa—this state park is one that all of our Homes by Taber homeowners should visit, whether it’s a quick day trip or a weekend-long adventure. The 714-acre park boasts an array of outdoor endeavors for visitors to enjoy, from fishing and boating on the gorgeous lake to relaxing and unwinding in a lakefront cabin. There are 16 recreation areas to browse through during your time at Keystone State Park—as well as miles of sandy beaches, 3 marinas, 2 off-road vehicle areas, 5 short-distance trails, a waterfowl refuge and thousands of acres of land open to public hunting. For an adventure-filled time, load up the family in your own boat, or rent one and cruise onto the lake for water sports and fishing for the well-known striped bass and catfish—and don’t forget to check out the ATV areas located below the dam. Discover the Keystone Bike Trail to see the variety of wildlife among the trees and hills, and end the day with a gourmet meal and scenic views of the sunset at Winn’s on the Water At Pier 51 Marina. 

For those who want to stay overnight to get the full experience, Keystone State Park features three different campgrounds for tents or trailers—accompanied by picnic areas and outdoor grills. You can also stay in a cozy, fully-furnished cabin near the water, with a full kitchen, multiple bedrooms to fit the whole family, a fireplace—and even a luxurious jacuzzi. 

Enjoy the wilderness at Lake Thunderbird State Park

With just a 30-minute drive from OKC and an hour-and-a-half drive from Tulsa—Lake Thunderbird State Park is an essential stop for any of our Homes by Taber residents. This extraordinary park has something for everyone to enjoy, from an archery range and equestrian trails to an array of lake activities and cozy campgrounds. Although this park has endless reasons to visit year-round, the warmer weather makes for the perfect summer destination—with two sandy beaches, two marinas, nine boat ramps, kayaking, rafting, fishing and more on the perfectly-blue Lake Thunderbird. 

Lake Thunderbird State Park also features picturesque hiking, mountain and nature trails to explore the surrounding wilderness and greenery. Get a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the Lake Thunderbird Horse Stables, where you can ride a horse on a 4-mile route along the beautiful hills throughout this state park. You can also find playgrounds, picnic tables and an archery range within Lake Thunderbird State Park—as well as tent and RV campgrounds that can be reserved online if you decide to stay awhile to experience nature to the fullest extent in the unique, charming setting. 

Find an outdoor oasis at Osage Hills State Park

Placed in the heart of the Osage Nation in Northeast Oklahoma, Osage Hills State Park is a prime location for a relaxing retreat or an exciting adventure that everyone can enjoy. Find natural beauty like you’ve never seen before throughout the astonishing outdoor amenities—from the rocky bluffs and lush forests to the tranquil creeks and serene waterfalls. Take advantage of the bass, crappie, catfish and sunfish while fishing on the admirable Lookout Lake or Sand Creek—where you can catch a glimpse of the timid wildlife, including white-tailed deer and wild turkey. Make your way through the spectacular forestry on the hike and bike trails, and take time to cool off in the swimming pool near the tennis courts and ball field. 

Perfect for an overnight stay, this park is located an hour away from Tulsa and two-and-a-half hours from OKC. Reservations for RV and tent sites with water and electricity hookups are available at Osage Hills State Park—and visitors can camp in the canvas-wall tents pitched on a wooden platform, or relax in one of eight native stone cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

Get a closer look at nature at Tenkiller State Park

Known as Oklahoma’s “heaven in the hills”—Tenkiller State Park is the state’s best destination for scuba diving, hiking, boating and more. With a two-and-a-half-hour drive from OKC and an hour and 20-minute drive from Tulsa—this beautiful state park is definitely worth the trip. Spend a day or two exploring the underwater world of Lake Tenkiller, where divers will find a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter, two boats and multiple artifacts—or enjoy the sunshine on top of the water while boating, water skiing, swimming or fishing. Two diving pro shops—Gene's Aqua Pro and Nautical Adventures—are located on the lake and offer training, certification and equipment rental for the ultimate diving experience. Hike or bike on any of the park's scenic trails, and end your excursions with a relaxing swim in the outdoor swimming pool—which contains a water slide and splash pad for the little ones. 

In addition to the tent and RV campgrounds available, Tenkiller State Park guests may choose from 38 cabins, ranging from one- to three-bedroom styles. You can spend as much time as you want in this amazing park, with the on-site Pine Cove Marina fully equipped with food and supplies for all of your needs—as well as the delicious floating restaurant, Clearwater Cafe.

Visit the stunning Roman Nose State Park

One of the oldest state parks in the entire state, Roman Nose State Park is a phenomenal park that truly has something for everyone. Placed along a majestic canyon and surrounded by exquisite rock formations and natural springs—visiting Roman Nose State Park makes for a trip worth remembering. The park is perfect for people of all ages, with beautiful hiking trails, two lakes, trout fishing, an 18-hole golf course, canoeing, paddle boating, mountain biking, horseback riding and more. Get in touch with your inner outdoorsman by listening to the soothing sounds of the surrounding wildlife and calming water, and enjoy the historic natural elements for a relaxing retreat.

One of the best parts about Roman Nose State Park is the wide variety of options for an overnight getaway. Book a night at Roman Nose State Park Lodge for an amenity-filled, newly-decorated room, or stay in any of the wonderful lakefront cabins for a luxurious camping experience. With an hour and 15-minute drive from OKC and a 2 hour and 40-minute drive from Tulsa—you’ll never run out of things to do and sights to see at Roman Nose State Park. 

Choose Homes by Taber

Whether you decide to visit all of these outstanding state parks or just a few, above all, we want our residents to not only love their forever home in any of our amazing communities—but also the beauty of Oklahoma and everything this historic state has to offer. At Homes by Taber, we know that it’s just as important to love the area you reside in as much as your home and community—which is why we choose to build in only the best neighborhoods throughout Oklahoma City and Tulsa. From the local amenities and entertainment to the outdoor adventures and nearby state parks and everything in between—when you choose Homes by Taber, you choose a forever home that can take you to incredible places.

To start your journey to your dream home for you and your family, be sure to browse our quick move-in homes and our remarkable communities—and don’t hesitate to contact us online at any time, or give us a call at 405-984-1185 in OKC or 918-393-4149 in Tulsa.