Hochatown is in the beautiful Ouachita Mountains of Southeastern Oklahoma. It’s full of outdoor activities, nature-based attractions, and cultural experiences. It’s a top spot for tourists looking for adventure, peace, or to dive into local culture.
Key Takeaways
- Hochatown has lots of outdoor fun like hiking, horseback riding, and floating on rivers.
- There are nature centers and wildlife museums to learn about the area’s plants and animals.
- It’s great for water sports, fishing, and scenic drives on the Talimena Scenic Byway.
- The area is known for its lively food and drink scene, with local distilleries, breweries, and wineries.
- For indoor fun, there are escape rooms and bowling for rainy days or a break from the outdoors.
Embrace the Great Outdoors at Beavers Bend State Park
Beavers Bend State Park is in the heart of Hochatown. It’s perfect for nature lovers. With over 3,400 acres of beautiful landscapes, there’s lots to do outside.
Hiking Trails for All Skill Levels
There are many trails for hikers. You can walk the David Boren Hiking Trail or the Lakeview Lodge Nature Trail. These trails are for everyone, from easy walks to tough hikes.
Beavers Bend Land and Water Park
For water fun, check out the Beavers Bend Land and Water Park. You can swim, play mini-golf, or rent kayaks and paddleboards. The Mountain Fork River is calm and beautiful.
Beavers Bend Forest Heritage Center
Don’t miss the Beavers Bend Forest Heritage Center. It’s full of wood art by Harry Rossol. It shows off the area’s forestry history.
Beavers Bend State Park has something for everyone. Enjoy a walk, a water adventure, or learn about the area’s culture. Discover Hochatown’s natural beauty.
Float Down the Mountain Fork River
Discover the calm beauty of Hochatown by floating down the Mountain Fork River. Beavers Bend River Floats offers a great way to see this beautiful place. You can rent a kayak or canoe for a peaceful 2.5-mile trip. Or, bring your own and enjoy a fun day out.
The Mountain Fork River is perfect for all skill levels. It has calm waters and is very clean. You can float slowly or go faster, depending on what you like.
For more excitement, try the Lower Mountain Fork River. It has fast currents and is known as Oklahoma’s best white water stream. It’s a thrilling way to spend your day.
Remember, kayakers must be at least 6 years old and 42 inches tall. It’s also a good idea to wear water shoes. No glass containers are allowed, but the water is very clean.
There are many places to rent canoes and kayaks. You can choose from single or double kayaks, and even tubes. Prices are low, and groups get discounts.
So, put on your life jacket, bring some snacks, and get ready for a fun float down the Mountain Fork River. It’s a top activity in Hochatown.
Saddle Up for a Trail Ride
Visitors to Hochatown can go on a fun horseback riding adventure. They can see the area’s beautiful landscapes. Outfitters like Riverman Trail Rides, Outlaw Trail Rides, and Beavers Bend Depot & Trail Rides offer guided trail rides.
Riverman Trail Rides
Riverman Trail Rides has different horseback riding options. You can choose from one-hour or three-hour rides. They also have buddy riders for kids under six, so it’s great for families.
Their Sweetheart Ride is perfect for couples. It takes you on a trail with views of the River Valley. You’ll enjoy wine and cheese by a campfire.
Outlaw Trail Rides
Outlaw Trail Rides offers tours through Hochatown’s scenic trails. You can see wildlife and enjoy amazing views. Their guides make sure everyone has a safe and fun time, no matter your riding skill.
Beavers Bend Depot & Trail Rides
Beavers Bend Depot & Trail Rides lets you explore Beavers Bend State Park on horseback. Their tours are 45 minutes to an hour long, covering 2.5 miles of beautiful park terrain. Rides start every hour, giving you a special way to see Hochatown’s nature.
After riding, relax in a cozy cabin rental. Call 580-306-2265 for more info and to book.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7odhK2FLLUk
Encounter Wildlife at Hochatown’s Nature Centers
In the heart of Hochatown, you can dive into the world of local wildlife at two great nature centers. The Beavers Bend Wildlife Museum and the Hochatown Petting Zoo and Rescue Center let you see and touch the animals of this amazing place.
Beavers Bend Wildlife Museum
The Beavers Bend Wildlife Museum is a top spot for nature lovers. It has a huge collection of taxidermy animals from Oklahoma. You can see beavers, deer, bears, and many other animals up close.
Hochatown Petting Zoo and Rescue Center
At the Hochatown Petting Zoo and Rescue Center, you can touch and meet rescued animals. It’s a place where families can have fun and learn. You’ll see farm animals, exotic birds, and sometimes bobcats or opossums. It’s a great way to connect with wildlife in Hochatown.
Hochatown’s nature centers are perfect for anyone who loves nature, families looking for adventure, or those who just enjoy the outdoors. They offer a fun and educational experience that you won’t forget.
Immerse Yourself in Choctaw Culture
Hochatown is in the heart of Oklahoma and was once home to the Choctaw Tribe. It still keeps a strong link to Choctaw heritage. This lets visitors dive into the rich cultural traditions of this indigenous group.
The Choctaw culture in Hochatown is tied to the area’s history. You can learn about the Choctaw heritage in Hochatown through different cultural activities and learning:
- Check out the Beavers Bend Museum to see the Choctaw’s bond with the land and their traditional life. It has hands-on exhibits on pottery, beadwork, and other crafts.
- Go to the Choctaw Cultural Center near Durant to learn about the Choctaw people’s 14,000-year history. It offers exhibits and programs that make you feel like you’re part of their story.
- See a traditional Choctaw storytelling or dance to understand their lively cultural traditions better.
- Learn how the Choctaw Nation helps the local community. They work on saving natural resources and supporting schools.
By diving into the Choctaw culture in Hochatown, visitors can really appreciate the Choctaw people’s lasting legacy. They also see how they still shape the area. This cultural journey makes the Hochatown visit more meaningful and memorable.
Things to do in Hochatown: Explore Broken Bow Lake
Broken Bow Lake is a top spot in Hochatown. It offers many water activities and boat rentals. You can explore the calm waters in your own way.
The Broken Bow Marina has kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, and pontoon boats. This lets guests enjoy the lake at their pace.
Watersports and Boat Rentals
The lake is great for exciting watersports like wakeboarding and water skiing. Families can enjoy a calm pontoon boat ride or pedal boating. The lake is perfect for a day of watersports in Hochatown or boat rentals in Hochatown.
Broken Bow Lake has activities for everyone. Whether you want to ride the waves or just relax, there’s something for you. Its beautiful views and great facilities make it a top spot in Hochatown.
Take a Scenic Drive on Talimena Scenic Byway
The Talimena Scenic Byway is a top spot for a stunning journey through Hochatown’s beauty. It’s a 54-mile drive, with 36 miles in Oklahoma. It lets visitors enjoy the Ouachita National Forest’s beautiful views and fall colors.
In 2005, the Talimena Scenic Byway was named a National Scenic Byway. It was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Over time, it has become a top spot for a drive.
Visitors will see over 15 scenic spots along the way. These spots offer wide views of the area. The best time to see the fall colors is from late October to early November.
There are no gas stations on the route. But, there are many places to eat and stay in nearby towns like Talihina and Mena. You can try the Hateful Hussy Diner or the Skyline Cafe for food.
The Talimena Scenic Byway is perfect for a relaxing drive or to enjoy nature. It has beautiful views, colorful fall foliage, and a rich history. This drive will leave a lasting impression on everyone who goes.
Cast Your Line for Fly Fishing and More
Fly fishing fans will love the Hochatown area. The Lower Mountain Fork River is perfect for fly fishing. It has brown and rainbow trout all year.
The “trophy section” near Broken Bow Lake is special. It’s four miles long and has no boats or barbed hooks. This spot is great for catching big trout and wading.
The Glover River and Broken Bow Lake are also great for fishing. You can fish on your own or take a guided trip. Hookers Live Bait Fire & Ice and Beavers Bend Fly Shop & Guide Service offer guided trips.
For beginners, Beavers Bend Fly Shop & Guide Service has half-day and full-day trips. They also offer lessons on the Lower Mountain Fork River. With expert guides and gear, you’ll learn to love fly fishing here.
Broken Bow is not just for trout. You can catch rainbow trout, spotted bass, walleye, crappie, and bluegill too. Hochatown is perfect for both new and experienced anglers.
Hike or Bike the Ouachita National Forest Trails
The Ouachita National Forest around Hochatown is perfect for outdoor lovers. It has many trails great for hiking and biking. The 22-mile Belle Starr Multi-Use Trail is a favorite, letting visitors enjoy the wild beauty.
For a tough hike, the forest has over 360,000 acres with more than 100 miles of hidden trails. Hikers can find easy walks or tough hikes. They can see beautiful views and different animals.
Biking fans will love the Ouachita National Forest too. It has tough trails like the K-Trail and Old Military Road near Talimena State Park. These trails challenge bikers a lot. Local outfitters can help with the best trails and rules for ATV riders.
Whether you like hiking or biking, the Ouachita National Forest near Hochatown is unforgettable. It has beautiful views and exciting off-road trails. Everyone can find something fun to do in this hidden Oklahoma spot.
Indulge in Local Spirits and Brews
Hochatown is in the heart of Oklahoma. It has a great selection of local spirits and brews for visitors. You can find everything from handcrafted distilleries to lively breweries. Get ready for a fun journey through Hochatown’s craft beverage scene.
Hochatown Distilling Co.
At Hochatown Distilling Co., you can learn about small-batch distillation. They make whiskeys, bourbons, and vodkas with local ingredients. You can take tours with guides who know a lot about making spirits.
The best part is tasting the spirits they make. You can try many different kinds of spirits.
Beavers Bend Brewery
If you like craft beer, you should go to Beavers Bend Brewery. They have a lot of handcrafted beers like IPAs and stouts. It’s a place where you can relax and enjoy great beer.
Fish Tales Winery
Fish Tales Winery is perfect for wine lovers. They make wines with local fruits like blackberries and peaches. You can even make your own wine blend to take home.
Mountain Fork Brewery
The Mountain Fork Brewery is another great spot in Hochatown. They have a wide range of handcrafted beers. You can try their famous IPAs, stouts, and seasonal beers.
Hochatown has something for everyone who loves spirits, beer, or just wants to try local flavors. It’s a place where you can have a unique experience. So, grab a drink and explore what makes Hochatown special.
Discover Indoor Attractions for Rainy Days
When the weather doesn’t cooperate, Hochatown has exciting indoor activities. You can try escape rooms or bowling alleys. There’s something fun for everyone on a rainy day.
Hochatown Escape Games
Test your problem-solving skills at Hochatown Escape Games. These escape rooms are themed and challenge you to work together. You’ll find clues to unlock the door before time runs out.
Choose from the Wild West or Pirate’s Cove. You’re in for an exciting adventure.
Gutter Chaos Bowling
Go bowling at Gutter Chaos Bowling for a classic indoor fun. It’s family-friendly with modern lanes and comfy seating. There’s also a full-service bar.
Rent shoes, pick a ball, and challenge your friends and family. It’s a great way to have fun together.
Choctaw Casino
For a fancy indoor experience, check out the Choctaw Casino in Durant. It has lots of table games, slot machines, and a luxury hotel. Enjoy entertainment, dining, and drinks in one place.
Hochatown has many indoor attractions for rainy days. You can try escape rooms or visit a casino. There’s fun for everyone in this beautiful area.
Conclusion
Hochatown, Oklahoma, is a place full of fun for those looking for a great vacation. If you’re planning a trip to Hochatown, you’ll find lots to do. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a Hochatown vacation that fits their interests.
Beavers Bend State Park offers big outdoor adventures. You can also learn about Choctaw heritage. There’s something for everyone.
Anglers can fish in Broken Bow Lake and Mountain Fork River. Thrill-seekers can zip line through the trees. For a calm day, try scenic drives, hiking, or visiting cozy wineries.
Hochatown will make a big impact, no matter what you like. It’s great for families, couples, or those who love the outdoors. This place in Oklahoma is unforgettable.
