Cherokee Wildlife Management Area, near Tahlequah, OK
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These are great primitive trails; we ride there often. Please note that Oklahoma law has changed and you now MUST carry an Oklahoma hunting or fishing license or OK Conservation Pass, or receive a fine. You can purchase them online. If you are from out-of-state the Conservation pass is just $26 and is good for a full year. Cell phones do not work in the park. There are trails as well as roads and you can ride for miles on the 16,000 acre tract. Shoes or hoof protection is a must. The main road is seven miles through the park from the Zeb entrance used by most people to the Qualls entrance on the south end. For a treat, ride out the south Qualls entrance and tie your horse up at Jincy's Kitchen for a hamburger or Indian taco (Fri/Sat/Sun only). Cash only. If you're an early bird ride in for breakfast! Be aware that the roads are not marked well. You can find a downloadable map online at the Oklahoma Wildlife Dept's page for the park. I recommend riding Circle Drive and Buzzard Drive. The best place to park bigger rigs is about 3.5 miles into the park at the "Public Hunting Camp." Note that the park is closed for hunting seasons from Oct. 1 - Feb 1 and during the month of April. |
| Reviewed by LeeAnnD on 1/3/2017 6:32:21 PM |
Experience: Intermediate |
Ride Date: 1/1/2017 |
Hometown: Tahlequah, OK |
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National Cherokee Nation Park, near Sallisaw, OK
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This is an update to my earlier review, as I can’t seem to edit my entry.
There is no camping at this site currently. Parts of the park are under construction. Use the back gate to enter (marked clearly with a sign) as the main gate is closed. Follow the drive around to the parking area. The trail head is to the west/right hand end of the parking area. Head towards the large pond and turn right to begin the trail.
The trail is freshly marked with white and red/white arrows. There’s a little over 7 miles of trail at this time. It is beautiful and well-maintained by the owner, Cherokee Nation Businesses. You do not have to be a tribal citizen to ride here. Watch for all kinds of wildlife. It is typical to see deer, rabbits, armadillos, pelicans and bald eagles. You are welcome to ride across the land dam on the east side or the large pond but please avoid riding in the adjacent construction area. |
| Reviewed by LeeAnnD on 5/31/2025 1:03:31 PM |
Experience: Expert |
Ride Date: 4/12/2025 |
Hometown: Tahlequah, OK |
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Very nice park and short trail system right off I-40! Trails are easy and scenic, perfect for beginners. Nice, brand new barn for camping with your horse. All camping is primitive right now but upgrades are planned and additional miles of trail. The park is operated by the Cherokee Nation and is well-maintained for public use. There's no water for horses near the barn, so you will want to bring your own. |
| Reviewed by LeeAnnD on 1/3/2017 6:36:18 PM |
Experience: Intermediate |
Ride Date: 1/1/2017 |
Hometown: Tahlequah, OK |
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