10 Best Small Towns in Oklahoma for a Crowd-Free Summer

Oklahoma is renowned for its expansive plains and vibrant cities, but nestled within its diverse landscape are small towns brimming with character, history, and summer charm.

 

From the cobblestone streets of Medicine Park to the frontier spirit of Kenton, these destinations offer unique experiences for travelers seeking a more intimate summer getaway.

 

Here are ten of the best small towns in Oklahoma to explore this summer:

 

Bartlesville

 

Located in northeastern Oklahoma, Bartlesville is a testament to the state's rich oil heritage.

 

Visitors can delve into history at the Bartlesville Area History Museum, which recently showcased the "Our Oily Past" exhibit, highlighting the city's pivotal role in the energy industry.

 

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Bartlesville Trails at Lake Hudson offer scenic mountain biking paths around a 250-acre lake, providing peaceful shoreline views and a dose of adventure.

 

After a day of exploration, indulge in local cuisine at spots like Bambino’s Downtown Bistro and Cooper and Mill Brewing Company.

 

Kenton

 

Tucked between ancient mesas in the Oklahoma Panhandle, Kenton offers a frontier experience like no other.

 

Start at the Kenton Museum, housed in a building from 1902, to discover artifacts from the region's early settler days.

 

Adventure seekers can hike the Black Mesa Summit Trail, leading to Oklahoma’s highest point at 4,973 feet, offering breathtaking views and encounters with rare wildlife.

 

For a rustic retreat, consider staying at Hitching Post Lodging & Ranch, where you can enjoy guided horseback rides and bird-watching tours.

 

El Reno

 

At the crossroads of Route 66 and the historic Chisholm Trail, El Reno blends rich heritage with summer adventure.

 

Hop aboard the Heritage Express Trolley to explore downtown's antique shops and local boutiques.

 

Don't miss the town’s legendary fried onion burger, celebrated annually at the Fried Onion Burger Day Festival.

 

For outdoor fun, head to Lake El Reno, a 170-acre recreation area perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing.

 

Hugo

 

On the edge of the Kiamichi Mountains, Hugo offers a unique summer escape filled with history and wildlife.

 

Explore the Frisco Depot Museum and visit Mount Olivet Cemetery's “Showmen’s Rest,” honoring circus performers.

 

Animal lovers can visit the Endangered Ark Foundation, home to one of the largest herds of Asian elephants in the U.S.

 

For outdoor activities, Kiamichi Park Campground on Hugo Lake offers lakeside campsites and swimming.

 

Medicine Park

 

At the base of the Wichita Mountains, Medicine Park is known for its red cobblestones and resort-town roots.

 

Bath Lake, the town’s original swimming hole, remains a summertime favorite with cascading waterfalls and clear, spring-fed waters.

 

Nearby, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offers rugged trails and close-up views of bison, elk, and prairie dogs.

 

Guthrie

 

Once Oklahoma’s territorial capital, Guthrie is a summer favorite for history lovers.

 

Explore downtown's Victorian architecture and join the Guthrie Ghost Walk for tales of local hauntings.

 

Learn about Oklahoma’s early days at the Oklahoma Territorial Museum.

 

For outdoor fun, Guthrie Lake offers boating, fishing, and picnicking opportunities.

 

Perry

 

Founded during the 1893 Cherokee Strip Land Run, Perry blends deep heritage with summer adventures.

 

Visit the Cherokee Strip Museum to explore pioneer artifacts.

 

Downtown Perry features one of the few authentic town squares, centered around the Noble County Courthouse, with antique shops and classic diners.

 

For outdoor fun, Perry Lake offers swimming, boating, and camping.

 

Woodward

 

In northwestern Oklahoma, Woodward is a scenic summer destination filled with outdoor fun and local history.

 

Enjoy the natural beauty of Boiling Springs State Park, with shaded trails and a public 18-hole golf course.

 

Explore the Goetzinger Walking Trails, a network winding through the Great Plains Field Station.

 

Stillwater

 

Centrally located between Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Stillwater blends small-town charm with university spirit.

 

Cheer on the Cowboys at Oklahoma State University, then grab a bite at iconic spots like Eskimo Joe’s.

 

Nature lovers can hit the trails at Lake Carl Blackwell, offering over 50 miles for hiking and biking.

 

In August, experience the Payne County Free Fair, featuring livestock shows and carnival rides.

 

Tishomingo

 

Steeped in Indigenous history, Tishomingo offers a refreshing summer getaway rooted in the legacy of the Chickasaw Nation.

 

Visit the Chickasaw Council House Museum and the Chickasaw National Capitol Building to learn about Indigenous culture.

 

Outdoor enthusiasts can fish in the clear waters of Blue River or spot wildlife at the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge.

 

Families can cool off at Delta’s Landing, a splash pad and play area in Pennington Park.

 

These small towns across Oklahoma offer unique and memorable summer experiences, blending history, culture, and outdoor adventure.

 

Whether you're hiking in Woodward, fishing in Tishomingo, or exploring the streets of Medicine Park, each town provides its own slice of seasonal magic.

 

So pack your bags and set out to discover the hidden gems of Oklahoma this summer.