The Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, larger than many states, is a vast urban center in Texas well-known for its big cities, but the natural sites in and around this region are well worth exploring. Nearby, Oklahoma’s uniquely gorgeous settings include mountains, waterfalls, and thick forests. Below are some of the natural sites in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area and Oklahoma region that will stand out most to outdoor enthusiasts.
Klyde Warren Park, TX
Klyde Warren Park is an extensive park in the heart of Dallas, connecting uptown and downtown. The lively atmosphere of this 5.2-acre park makes it a popular destination for families. It consistently hosts shows and festivals, along with food trucks that crowd the area offering delicious food.
Oak Cliff Nature Preserve, TX
To escape the noise and urban sprawl of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, head to Oak Cliff Nature Preserve. This huge park feels far removed from the noise of Dallas and is a 121-acre area filled with trees, wildflowers, and vegetation. Oak Cliff Nature Preserve has eight miles of hiking and biking trails, all in a scenic, densely-forested area. It is an ideal place to reconnect with nature.
Cedar Hill State Park, TX
Cedar Hill State Park is a lovely natural area a short drive from Dallas. If you are looking for a place to enjoy scenic trails or fish convenient to the city, this is the place to be. Located along the shores of Joe Pool Lake, this park is a popular destination for fishing. Also, trails cross over bridges and overlook unique biodiversity, including bobcats, foxes, and gorgeous birds.
White Rock Lake, TX
White Rock Lake is one of the most-visited parks in the Dallas park system. It is centered around a 1,015-acre lake made from the damming of a local creek. It is a popular spot for outdoor fun just five miles from the city’s downtown. While swimming in the lake is not advised, it is ideal for boating and fishing for bass. Visitors can also hike, bike, and run on trails along the water.
Lake Texoma, TX & OK
Lake Texoma is a vast reservoir in both Texas and Oklahoma. It is based along the states’ shared border, just under a two-hour drive from Dallas’s downtown. Lake Texoma is a destination that attracts boaters and anglers, known for the catfish, bass, and bluegill that populate the waters. And visitors can spend the night in this beautiful setting at one of Lake Texoma’s lodging options or campgrounds.
Chickasaw National Recreation Area, OK
In south-central Oklahoma is one of the state’s most gorgeous natural settings. Chickasaw National Recreation Area is a huge site located in the foothills of the Arbuckle Mountains. It has thick forests, sparkling blue lakes and rivers, and more than twenty miles of trails. This area is home to rare birds, armadillos, and flying squirrels, among many other unique animal species.
Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge, OK
Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge is a huge natural area in Oklahoma’s southwest. It is known for protecting some incredible animals, including bison, elk, otters, and prairie dogs. The refuge, spanning over 59,000 acres, includes climbing areas, campgrounds, and waters for fishing. Also, its rugged landscape with uphill trails presents hikers and bikers with exciting challenges.
