Salt Plains State Park
Salt Plains State Park

Salt Plains State Park

Address:
23280 S Spillway Dr
Jet, OK 73749
Park Office:
580-626-4731
Office Fax:
580-626-4730

Salt Plains State Park is one of Oklahoma's most unique state parks. The barren landscape of the nearby Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge is comprised of salt leftover from an ocean that covered Oklahoma in prehistoric times, and the saltwater lake in the park, Great Salt Plains Lake, is about half as salty as the ocean.

Visitors can take their pick of activities in the park, such as swimming in Great Salt Plains Lake or trekking along bike trails. Equestrians can bring their horses to ride designated trails, and there are nature trails to enjoy while taking in the scenery. Fishing at the lake is fun for the entire family, whether in a boat or onshore. Varieties of fish such as catfish, saugeye, sand bass and hybrid striper can be found in these salty, shallow waters. You can also bring your canoe or kayak and enjoy a trip around the lake viewing the many migratory birds that pass through the area.

The selenite crystal dig area is located southwest of the lake in the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge, and access roads are available six miles west of Jet or three miles south of Cherokee. The crystal digging area is open from April 1 to October 15 from sunrise to sunset. Located just under the surface of the salt plains, these crystals usually form into an hourglass shape. Oklahoma is the only place in the world where the hourglass-shaped selenite crystal can be found. While searching for crystals, look for some of the over 300 species of protected birds that live in and can be seen in the refuge.

Enjoy a multi-day stay at Salt Plains State Park in one of the renovated, eco-friendly cabins. Each of the six cabins has its own bed, refrigerator and stove, among other amenities. Pets are allowed in select units for a small nightly fee. Also, overnight camping is available in an RV or tent site. One full hookup site is available. Online reservations must be made for all RV and tent campsites. Comfort stations with showers are located near the sites and throughout the park for the convenience of visitors. Great Salt Plains State Park also offers picnic pavilions and outdoor grills.

Many visitors leave Salt Plains State Park with crystals in tow. Photo by Lori Duckworth/Oklahoma Tourism.
Salt Plains State Park offers a barren landscape created by salt remnants from a prehistoric ocean. Photo by Lori Duckworth/Oklahoma Tourism.
All ages are invited to spend the day digging at Salt Plains State Park from April to October. Photo by Lori Duckworth/Oklahoma Tourism.
Visit Great Salt Plains State Park from April to October to dig for crystals and enjoy the views. Photo by Shane Bevel.

Activities

Horseback Riding
Canoeing/Rafting/Kayaking
Hiking
Swimming
Watchable Wildlife
Fishing
Biking

Soundscapes

Pricing

Click for current pricing of tent and RV campsites and cabin and lodge rooms.

Amenities

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Weather

35° Clear

Cooling down with no rain expected.

Tue
31°
55°
Wed
32°
68°
Thu
47°
69°
Fri
50°
70°
Sat
37°
63°

Last Updated: March 28th at 3:42am

Hours

Sunday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Monday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tuesday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Wednesday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Friday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Saturday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Hours above reflect park office hours. The crystal digging area is open from sunrise to sunset April 1st - October 15th for visitors and is owned & managed by the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge.
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