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This Safari-Themed Water Park In Oklahoma Should Be On Everyone’s Summer Bucket List

Published May 15, 2019

Written by 

Ashley

Can you believe it's already time for water parks, sunscreen, and summer break? If you're like me and you're already making your summer bucket list of places to take the kids, make sure you have Safari Joe's H20 Water Park on your list. It's a safari-themed water park in Tulsa that's one of the biggest in the state — and the best part is — it will keep the kids entertained all day long while you sip on drinks in the shade.

Safari Joe's H20 Water Park is located at 4707 East 21st Street in Tulsa and opened in 2015 (formerly known as Big Splash). It's undergone a lot of renovations since opening, and every year it gets better and better.

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SafariJoesH2OWaterPark/Facebook

Plan on spending all day at the park, as there is plenty to keep you busy. Make sure you take a ride on the waves in Shark Beach Wave Pool — one of the largest wave pools in the Southwest.

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SafariJoesH2OWaterPark/Facebook

One of the cool things about this attraction are the animals. Safari Joe's Reptile World is located in the park and is home to an assortment of amazing exotic creatures including reptiles.

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SafariJoesH2OWaterPark/Facebook

The animals you can meet, include parrots, tortoises, emus, rabbits, snakes, tarantulas, water monitors, caiman, and soon lemur monkeys, and more.

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SafariJoesH2OWaterPark/Facebook

All the animal attractions are included in your price of admission, so you're getting two attractions for the price of one.

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SafariJoesH2OWaterPark/Facebook

Plus, there are special shows and events throughout the season that you can attend.

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SafariJoesH2OWaterPark/Facebook

Tiny Turtle Lagoon is a great spot for the little kiddos. The water is only 8 inches high and features several small slides and attractions perfect for their height.

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SafariJoesH2OWaterPark/Facebook

Another fun attraction is New Rex's River — a lazy river where you can enjoy the gentle current and flow on a tube.

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SafariJoesH2OWaterPark/Facebook

You can also ride on Oklahoma's largest and only water roller coaster. Make sure to plan a trip to this fun summer attraction that's filled with animals and fun in the sun!

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SafariJoesH2OWaterPark/Facebook

Address: 4707 East 21st Street, Tulsa, OK, 74114

Visit their website or Facebook page for more information and pricing.

Looking for more ideas to add to your summer bucket list? There's a spring-fed pool located in Gage, Oklahoma, that's filled with mineral-laden water. Click here to read more about it.

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Trip Ideas

Spend Three Days In Three State Parks On This Weekend Road Trip In Oklahoma

A 3-day road trip in northeastern Oklahoma visits Keystone State Park, Greenleaf State Park, and Lake Eufaula State Park for natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Updated May 30, 2024

Written by 

Ashley

Looking for a fun nature trip to take this summer in Oklahoma? If so, we put together a weekend road trip that will take you to three great state parks filled with natural beauty, epic scenery, and outdoor recreation. They are all located in northeastern Oklahoma, an area of the state known for its green foliage and beautiful topography. Let's get started on this 3-day road trip in Oklahoma.

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Map highlighting a 3-day nature road trip route through Oklahoma, with text promoting the adventure.
google maps

This 3-day road trip will start at Keystone State Park and end at Lake Eufaula State Park. The total trip distance is 130 miles. Follow along on this interactive map.

Day 1- Keystone State Park

A scenic view of a river surrounded by green trees and picnic tables under a clear blue sky.
google photos/kenny holloway

Keystone State Park is located just west of Tulsa in the town of Sand Springs and encompasses over 700 acres. The park is open 7 days a week all year long and provides endless recreational activities.

A wooden sign reading "Ranger Trail" marks a gravel path surrounded by lush greenery and trees.
facebook/KeystoneStatePark

The park is home to miles and miles of nature trails, along with playgrounds and a children's fishing pond. There is a marina that offers boat rentals and has a full-service restaurant.

A wooden cabin on a hillside overlooking a lake, surrounded by trees and a clear blue sky.
facebook/KeystoneStatePark

You can even stay the night in one of the cabins for a very reasonable price. And, many of them even have lake views! There are 22 cozy cabins to choose from, complete with full amenities including satellite television and fireplaces. Cabin sizes vary from one-bedrooms to multiple bedrooms and some are even pet-friendly.

Day 2 - Greenleaf State Park

A family kayaking on a calm lake surrounded by trees and blue skies with fluffy clouds.
google photos/helen feistel

On day 2 head over to Greenleaf State Park, a lesser-known state park in Oklahoma. This hidden gem is less crowded than other parks and offers peace and serenity for those looking to rest and relax.

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A wooden suspension bridge stretches over a calm body of water, surrounded by trees and autumn foliage.
Aaron Pfauth/Google

If you’re up for a challenge, the 5.3-mile hike known as the Ankle Express in Greenleaf State Park will take you to a swinging bridge. It's not for the faint-hearted. The bridge moves and swings under the weight of the people crossing it.

A sunny park scene with people relaxing by a lake, surrounded by green grass and trees.
google photos/kimber sowell

Motorized personal watercraft are not allowed on Greenleaf Lake, so you can't rent any boats here. It does make it a nice calm place to swim or kayak, especially if you have small children. The park also offers camping options if you would like to rough it or sleep under the stars.

Day 3 - Lake Eufaula State Park

A green yurt with a wooden deck and table, surrounded by trees in a grassy area.
google photos/lake eufaula state park

Your next stop is Lake Eufaula State Park - and stay the night in one of the yurts. A yurt is a portable round tent that's more like glamping than camping. There are three yurts that are available for rental that are situated in an idyllic setting.

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An orange kayak floats on calm, dark water, with a person seated inside.
gettyimages/creatingoutdoors

Lake Eufaula State Park is a beautiful spot in northeastern Oklahoma for a family getaway. It's home to the largest lake in the state and is filled with every water sport imaginable.

A serene sunset over a calm lake, with vibrant orange and blue hues reflecting on the water.
Sarah W. (Rainbow Cloud)

Lake Eufaula State Park has over 10 miles of hiking trails for you to explore. With stunning lake views and beautiful forest trails, you will want to spend as much time outdoors. And, if you can stay and catch the sunset, they are magical.

Have you been to any of the destinations on this 3-day road trip in Oklahoma? Which one is your favorite? Let us know about your favorite road trip destinations in the comments. For more spectacular road trips, check out some of the best road trips in Oklahoma:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/oklahoma/best-road-trips-in-oklahoma/

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The Breathtaking Scenic Drive Through Oklahoma That Runs Along The Illinois River

Published May 15, 2024

Written by 

Ashley

As spring unfolds across Oklahoma, there’s no better way to experience the vibrant rebirth of nature than by taking a scenic drive along State Highway 10, which beautifully traces the path of the Illinois River from Gore to Tahlequah. This route, known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities, offers travelers a refreshing escape into the heart of Green Country.

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The journey begins in the quaint town of Gore, dubbed the Trout Capital of Oklahoma, where the Illinois River provides plentiful fishing opportunities.

A serene river flows through a lush green landscape, with rocky banks and trees lining the water's edge.
greencountryok.com

Just a short detour from Gore on Highway 100 leads to the serene shores of Tenkiller Lake. Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, and soaking up the scenic views along the roads near the dam. The area's vibrant springtime foliage combined with the crystal-clear waters creates a picturesque setting perfect for nature enthusiasts.

A serene lake view at sunset, framed by trees, with vibrant colors reflecting on the water.
greencountryok.com

Continuing northeast, State Highway 10 meanders through lush countryside, introducing travelers to the expansive beauty of the Illinois River’s landscape. As you approach Tahlequah, the capital city of the Cherokee Nation, the road unveils breathtaking vistas of rolling hills and verdant woodlands.

A serene river scene with a green bridge, surrounded by lush trees and reflecting in the calm water.
greencountryok.com

Tahlequah itself offers a charming blend of cultural heritage and local dining spots. Stop in for a delightful meal at establishments like Fish’s Barbecue or Katfish Kitchen, or sample some exceptional pizza at Sam and Ella’s Chicken Palace.

A sailboat glides across a calm lake, framed by vibrant autumn foliage.
facebook/OKGreenCountry

The drive along State Highway 10 is not just about the destinations but the journey itself. Each curve brings a new view of the Illinois River, framing the tranquil water against a backdrop of emerging greenery and wildlife.

A scenic view of a winding river surrounded by lush green trees and hills under a cloudy sky.
greencountryok.com

Embark on this scenic drive through Oklahoma and let the natural beauty of the Illinois River guide you through one of the most picturesque areas in the state. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous exploration, this route offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and local flavor.

A wooden bridge spans over a calm river, surrounded by green trees and a clear blue sky.
google photos/ Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway

Check out this video by Green Country Oklahoma to get a better view of the drive along Highway 10:

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If you need a place to stay in Tahlequah, check out the charming vacation rentals on VRBO.com.

Also, if you take the drive in the late spring/summer, I highly recommend you take some time and enjoy a float trip down the Illinois River.

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