These are the best places to see fall foliage in Oklahoma

As rains start to return and bring cooler weather back to Oklahoma, the time is coming for the leaves to begin changing from green to vivid shades of red, yellow and orange. For those looking to catch a glimpse of Oklahoma's autumn beauty, there are a number of trips and places to visit.

Peak times to view fall foliage vary by location, but are typically late October to early November. Many of the best sites are located across the eastern portion of the state, but there are some in other parts of Oklahoma as well. Rent a cabin, pack a tent or just take a roadtrip to see the leaves in all their color-changing glory. 

Talimena National Scenic Byway

Perhaps the most well-known location for fall foliage in Oklahoma is the Talimena National Scenic Byway. Winding through the Ouachita National Forest, this drive actually extends into Arkansas if you take it all the way. There's plenty to see while on the Oklahoma side of the border though!

"Not only is the drive along the byway beautiful, but the scenic vistas offer breathtaking views for miles," said Megan Thele, a Yukon resident who took the Oklahoma portion of the drive last fall. "There's a lot to choose from, but each one is worth the stop to see colorful leaves through the forest, sprawling farmland and mountains stacked in the distance." 

More:Did the hottest summer on record scorch leaf-peeping season? See fall foliage predictions

The national forest also offers plenty of options in recreational areas for camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, ATV off-roading, boating and more, making the byway a great option for a weekend trip or fall family vacation. Two popular recreation areas near the byway are Billy Creek and Cedar Lake. 

Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Just a short jaunt south of Oklahoma City, in the Arbuckle Mountains is the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Home to Veterans Lake and Lake of the Arbuckles, this nearly 10,000 acre expanse offers chances to view some of south central Oklahoma's best fall foliage. 

Whether camping for a weekend in a tent or RV, taking a day hike through the recreation area, cruising the lake on a boat or taking a walk on the wild side to see what animals you can spot, you're sure to find a way to take in the natural beauty of autumn in this national park. 

More:Oklahoma fall foliage forecast released for 2023. See the best week to see peak colors

Turner Falls Park

Just west of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area lies another gem of the Arbuckle mountains. Turner Falls Park, located just off Interstate 35 in Davis, is home to the largest waterfall in the state. 

Be sure to climb to the top of a nearby peak and get a view of the water cascading over the edge with the brilliant hues of fall all around. Along with the waterfall, the park boasts cabins, screened shelters and tent camping for those looking to stay the night. For fun, there's hiking, fishing, caves and even a castle to explore.

Kiamichi Mountains

There are several prime viewing locations for seeing fall colors in Oklahoma's Kiamichi Mountains. These mountains are home to Beavers Bend State Park and Clayton Lake State Park. 

Beavers Bend is nestled in the southern portion of the Ouachita National Forest, along Broken Bow Lake, and offers a wide variety of amenities and activities, including hiking, biking, boating, fishing, canoeing and kayaking, horseback riding, scuba diving and more. 

Clayton Lake is in the heart of the Choctaw Nation and offers hiking, kayaking, and fishing as well as boating, but no water sports. Both state parks offer tent or RV camping and cabin rentals, including pet-friendly options.

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

If you're in the southwestern part of the state, there's still a chance to catch some changing leaves. Mount Scott in the refuge offers views from it's peak, which is accessible by foot, car or bike. Head to the summit to see the colors of the refuge displayed in 360-degree views.

The refuge offers hiking, rock climbing, fishing and wildlife watching with herds of wild bison and longhorn cattle roaming freely. Camping at the refuge is currently only available for those with RVs and travel trailers with self-contained bathrooms, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Honorable Mentions

Robbers Cave State Park in the San Bois Mountains of eastern Oklahoma, Grand Lake O' the Cherokees and the Tahlequah area in northeastern Oklahoma, Lake Murray State Park in south central Oklahoma, and Black Mesa State Park in the panhandle and all among additional sites for great fall escapes. Each location offers camping and hiking with additional recreation options available at some. 

"We’ve rented a cabin up at Grand Lake a couple of times and it was great," said Michael Kimball, an Oklahoma City resident on Twitter. "Not as pricey as the summer and the leaves were spectacular. Made for good family photos."

With so many options and most within a few hours drive of the city, you can even choose to check out more than one area. Make plans now to take a few friends or the family and make the most of the stunning oranges, reds and yellows as they spread across Oklahoma.