Natural Falls State Park

The week of March 23rd 2026 we camped with John and Lynda at Natural Falls State Park. Located near the Oklahoma/Arkansas border in the scenic Ozark Highlands region of northeast Oklahoma, Natural Falls State Park features a 77-foot waterfall cascading through rock formations and creating a hidden, serene atmosphere at the bottom of a narrow V-shaped valley. A railed observation platform allows hikers to overlook the falls and another observation deck with seating is located at the foot of the falls offering two vantage points to enjoy one of the most scenic wonders in the state. The beautiful scenery looks familiar to many visitors because scenes from the 1974 movie, "Where the Red Fern Grows" were filmed in the park.

Natural Springs State Park Visitor Center

John & Lynda's Campsite

Ronnie & Donna's Campsite

Inside the park is the Dripping Springs Scenic Waterfall.  The park was originally known as Dripping Springs Park before it became an Oklahoma state park. We hiked the walkway down to the base of the falls. John and I ventured down the Dripping Springs Branch and back up to the campground.

Landscaped Garden Area at the Dripping Springs Scenic Waterfall Trail

Tribute to the Movie Where the Red Fern Grows

Rental Yurts Across the Valley

Fire Pit Cutout Cabin Design

We took a road trip to Tulsa Oklahoma on Wednesday. John treated us to tickets to the Oklahoma Aquarium. The Oklahoma Aquarium is home to the world's largest exhibit of bull sharks which you can explore in the unique, walk through tunnel. You can also see their loggerhead sea turtles, zebra sharks, and humphead wrasse. The aquarium has more than 500 species and 10,000 animals.

Bull Shark Walk Through Tunnel

The Illusive Chillin' Johnny 

You don't need to go very far into the Cherokee Nation to find a cascino. As a matter of fact, all you have to do is cross the Arkansas state line to find Cherokee Hotel & Casino in West Siloam Springs.