We Bet You Didn't Know This Rural Oklahoma Destination Even Existed
By Ashley|Published August 18, 2023
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Ashley
Author
Ashley has lived in Oklahoma for 25 years and is the Oklahoma staff writer for onlyinyourstate.com. When she isn't exploring Oklahoma, she enjoys visiting the beaches of California.
Unbeknownst to many, the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge is a well-kept secret tucked away in the heart of Southern Oklahoma. This sprawling 16,464-acre sanctuary, established in 1946, graces the upper Washita Arm of Lake Texoma and plays a vital role in protecting migratory waterfowl in the Central Flyway. If you’re seeking an extraordinary and lesser-known destination, look no further. Keep scrolling below and I’ll give you a sneak peek of this majestic destination.
Welcome to the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge, a hidden oasis in rural Oklahoma that beckons with its untouched beauty and extraordinary biodiversity.
When you first arrive, don't miss the chance to visit the Visitor Center. Here, you can immerse yourself in a treasure trove of exhibits, from interactive games to captivating wildlife displays and informative orientation maps and videos.
This 16,464-acre sanctuary, established in 1946 for migratory waterfowl in the Central Flyway, opens its gates only during daylight hours, allowing visitors to revel in its natural splendors from dawn to dusk.
One of the refuge's highlights is undoubtedly the 3,000-acre Tishomingo Wildlife Management Unit. Here, you'll be surrounded by a breathtaking panorama of upland areas ranging from grasslands to wild plum thickets to oak-hickory-elm woodlands.
For birdwatchers, the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge is an absolute haven, with its diverse landscapes attracting an impressive 284 bird species. From the graceful flight of migratory waterfowl to the colorful plumage of resident songbirds, every corner of the refuge offers a prime vantage point to observe and admire the rich avian life.
In the Cumberland Pool, you'll find yourself immersed in an angler's paradise. The seasonally flooded flats and willow shallows at the Pool's edge create an ideal wildlife habitat, resulting in a fishing experience like no other. Whether you're an expert angler or a novice with a fishing rod, the Cumberland Pool will have you hooked.
Visitors will be spoiled for choice with a plethora of outdoor activities available from dawn to dusk. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the numerous nature trails that wind through picturesque landscapes.
I highly recommend you spend a day here and take some time to discover the intriguing historic farm structures scattered throughout the area. These remnants of the past, including the Chickasaw Labor Academy and Washita Farm, offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's history and cultural heritage.
