This is an archived news release. For current information, visit our current conditions webpage.
Recent rainfall in the area was enough to allow Antelope and Buffalo Springs to once again flow. The increased level of water in Travertine Creek has allowed the park to reopen Little Niagara, Bear Falls and Garfield Falls for swimming. Panther Falls and Black Sulphur Springs remain closed. Chickasaw NRA closed the Travertine Creek swimming areas last fall due to drought and
Park visitation can be affected by water levels in the creek. In 2012 the park received a total of 1,487,039 visitors, an increase of 22.7% over 2011. In 2011 Travertine Creek was dry during the summer, due to the extended drought in Oklahoma. For most of 2012 Travertine Creek and the swimming areas had plenty of water for our visitors to enjoy.
Chickasaw NRA offers many opportunities for recreation. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking and camping in addition to swimming in our cool waters. Visitors can also boat, swim and participate in other water-based activities at the Lake of the Arbuckles and Veterans Lake. Visitors may visit the Travertine Nature Center open Thursday through Monday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Nature Center is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday. Children can participate in the park Junior Ranger program and earn a Junior Ranger patch, badge, and certificate.
For more information about Chickasaw National Recreation Area and camping, visit www.nps.gov/chic/ or call the Travertine Nature Center, 580-622-7234.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
