Broken Bow :: Road Trips from Fort Worth

Visit Broken BowIf you’ve asked around for ideas about getaways, it’s likely Broken Bow, Oklahoma, came up. This forest-clad, large-lake oasis is a new hotspot for North Texans. Only three to four hours from the metroplex, it’s an easy and beautiful drive away from the hustle and bustle and into the countryside.

My Oklahoma husband grew up regularly camping at Broken Bow, and we’ve ventured there for anniversary trips. Y’all, we loved Broken Bow before it was cool. So, if cabins, camping, fishing, boats, campfires, hiking, and relaxing are on your agenda, then I’ve got some good news for you.

Pro tip :: The Beavers Bend State Park area — Broken Bow Lake, the Mountain Fork and and Glover Rivers, Quachita National Forest, and Hochatown — are busiest on the weekends and in the summer. Plan accordingly.

What to Do

Attractions // This isn’t the Broken Bow from 1980. There are so many activities! From golf and horse riding to escape rooms and slingshot adventures, there is literally something for everyone now. Petting zoos, museums, ax throwing, wineries, agri-tourism . . . see? Something for everyone.

Boating/Rafting // Boating, canoeing, and kayaking are all awaiting you! You can bring your own, or rent anything from a jet boat to a pontoon or a canoe and kayak. You can forge out on your own, or as mentioned before, can hire a guide. Make sure you follow watercraft laws!

Where to stay, what to eat, and what to do in Broken Bow OklahomaEvents // The crown jewel of events is the Kiamichi Owachito Festival of the Forest and is totally worth attending if you are in the area during September. There are lots of other events happening in this region of Oklahoma. Before you book your vacation dates, it’s a good idea to check what events will be happening. Events like fishing tournaments impact the traffic and accessibility to roads and water. 

Fishing // You have lots of fishing options! You can bring your own boat, or rent one. You fish from the shoreline or hire a fishing guide (totally recommended and fun). This area offers fishing of all sorts — fly-fishing, bass fishing, and more. What do you need to know? You’ll need a temporary fishing license, check updated fishing limits and regulations, and review the boating and watercraft laws.

Gambling // You read that right! Visit the Choctaw Casino – Broken Boxw and support the local tribe. Check the website for events and theme nights. Good luck!

Hiking // Grab your bug spray. hiking boots, and hit the trails in Beaven Bend State Park. There are trail options for options for all skill levels and interests. Check out the nature trails and hiking routes before you head out for maps, tips, and safety info.

Shopping // The shopping scene in the Broken Bow area is eclectic. You’ll find Walmart and a couple of small grocers to supply your food and basic needs. The main thoroughfare (hello, two lane road) is dotted with shops of all sorts. Every time we visit, the shopping options seem a bit different.

Spas // Who likes a spa day? Your outdoorsy getaway can also include some TLC. At the time of publication, there were three options listed by the Chamber of Commerce, each with unique offerings.

Stay at Beavers Bend Lodge in Broken BowWhere to Eat

When we stay in Broken Bow, we usually rent a cabin or share a RV camper with my in-laws. That means we usually make a trip to the grocery store, so we can prepare several meals. Even still, we always eat out at least a couple of times. If you do not want to cook, there are plenty of dining options! These are a few of our favorites:

Where to fish on Broke Bow LakeJake’s Brickhouse Grill // This restaurant is actually in Idabel, but absolutely worth the visit. It’s a good mix of southwestern and American fare.

Mountain Fork Brewery // This one has local favorite written all over it! Handcrafted beers and burgers. What else do you need to know? Fine — the other menu items are good too. And while you are there, sign up for a tour! 

Rolling Fort Takery // Our favorite dining option on the list! There are so many tasty offerings on the menu — from the hearty to the sweet to just the right lunch size. The food is fresh and delicious.

Shuck Me // It’s not often we recommend a seafood restaurant in the middle of almost nowhere Oklahoma, but Shuck Me made the top five. Try the po’ boy, and you’ll understand why!

Where to Stay

Bed and Breakfast Options // There are a handful of choices for that B & B experience with Lago Vista being the closest to a true B & B.

Beavers Bend Lake View Lodge // This is THE lodge if you are looking for hotel accommodations. Located within the state park, this facility offers amenities like free breakfast, a playground, and a killer view of the lake. Book quick; the lodge only has 40 rooms.

Cabins // By far, cabin rentals are the most popular lodging option. McCurtian County now boasts nearly 3,000 cabins! There is truly something for every budget — from luxury living to the “roughing it” camping feel.

Camping // Hit the road in your camper! With nine area campsites and a variety of hookup options (we’re talking camping here only, folks), you can find a spot to unwind. The catch? Reserve your dates early.

For more driving destination ideas, check out Fort Worth Moms “Guide to Road Trips from Fort Worth.”

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Emily is CEO of Fort Worth Moms and co-host of Momfessions Podcast. Since 1999, Emily has worked in various aspects of the publishing industry: curriculum, magazines, books, and newspapers. She first became involved with Fort Worth Moms in 2013 as a contributing writer. She became the managing editor in 2014. Twelve months later, she became the sole owner of Fort Worth Moms. She is also a co-host for the Momfessions Podcast. In 2014, she co-authored and released Legendary Locals of Fort Worth. She has also co-written a Bible study, Grace in the Empty Spaces. She also enjoys gardening, yard sales, and drinking Dr. Pepper.