When the crisp days of autumn roll around, it's time to prep that RV or give that convertible a bath, so you can hit the road to see the lush forests of Oklahoma put on their last performance of the year.  It’s time to think fall foliage.

Each year, from mid-October through early November, Oklahoma becomes awash with the rich colors and textures of autumn.  From Beavers Bend in southeastern Oklahoma to Boiling Springs in northwestern Oklahoma the forests burst forth in breathtaking displays you can admire from the cool confines of your car.

If you haven’t taken a drive along one of Oklahoma’s scenic roadways, or if it’s been a while, it’s high time to hit the open road to take in Mother Nature’s artful shadings in orange, red, and yellow hues.  Nothing quite compares with a long leisurely drive through our majestic state.

State Highway 1, the Talimena National Scenic Byway, and US Highway 259, south of Big Cedar, combine to offer more than a 100 miles of highway beauty straight through the heart of the Ouachita National Forest and the Kiamichi Mountains.  Here you’ll find mile after mile of fall color and splendor.  The roadways snake across the crests of the densely wooded mountain range revealing breathtaking vistas from the scenic pullouts.  These curvaceous byways will make you remember how much you love to drive as you enjoy the foliage.

Along the drive, you’ll find Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area, which offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities including camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, and horseback riding.  At the nearby Cedar Lake National Recreation Area, you’ll find a campground area offering covered shelters, picnic tables, a playground, a volleyball area and more.

Another long stretch of Oklahoma highway beauty can be found on State Highway 10 from Miami to Tahlequah.  With more than 130 miles of dazzling color on roads that weave their way through rolling hills, this drive is something special.  Plan for stops in Grove, Jay, and Tahlequah for a little shopping and don’t forget your camera.  With views of the Illinois River, Lake Tenkiller, and Grand Lake, this highway will have you trying to capture every angle of every shore.

Other northeastern Oklahoma prime foliage viewing spots include Osage Hills State Park along US 60 west of Bartlesville and the short drive around Oologah Lake on State Highway 88, south to Claremore.

In northwestern Oklahoma Boiling Springs State Park with its cool springs and tall cottonwoods is an oasis of majesty.  The rich fall colors that adorn the park are in stark contrast to the sagebrush landscape of the surrounding area and the peacefulness of this hideaway will leave you feeling renewed.  

Then head south to the rugged Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton where you’ll see amazing fall colors amidst a backdrop of granite formations.  Herds of buffalo and elk roam the refuge and are often spotted along the roadway in addition to the colorful foliage.  With its wildlife and scenery, opportunities abound for hikers and photographers alike in this national refuge.  Drive right to the top of Mount Scott where you can park your car and stretch your legs as you take in the panoramic vistas.  Other activities for the active minded include rock climbing, rappelling, and mountain biking. 

One of southern Oklahoma’s most beautiful fall drives awaits you in Sulphur at the Chickasaw National Recreation Area.  Mineral and fresh water springs wind their way through acres of towering pines and hardwoods in the wilderness area once known as Platt National Park.  Add in the magnificent scenery surrounding the Lake of the Arbuckles and the rushing waters of nearby Turner Falls Park in Davis and you have a fall foliage viewer's paradise.  All three areas are easily accessible by car so you can choose to drive through or camp out and extend your stay.

More enchanting fall foliage opportunities can be found at Lake Eufaula, Lake Arcadia, Lake Texoma State Park, and many other locations throughout the state.

No matter what part of Oklahoma you visit this fall, you’re sure to see some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable.