Mountain Fork Trout Fishing, Broken Bow Lake, and Ouachita Forest Trails
Mountain Fork Trout Fishing, Broken Bow Lake, and Ouachita Forest Trails
In the forested foothills of southeastern Oklahoma, where the Ouachita Mountains roll toward the Texas border, Beavers Bend State Park offers something unexpected: a mountain wilderness experience in a state most people don’t associate with mountains at all. Established in 1937 on the Mountain Fork River near the community of Hochatown in McCurtain County, the 3,482-acre park sits alongside Broken Bow Lake, a 14,000-acre reservoir surrounded by towering pines and rocky bluffs. The cold-water releases from Broken Bow Dam maintain the Mountain Fork River at 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, creating the only sustainable trout fishery in Oklahoma and drawing anglers from across the region.
Trout fishing is the park’s signature activity and the reason many visitors arrive in the first place. Oklahoma’s Department of Wildlife Conservation stocks rainbow and brown trout in the Mountain Fork year-round, and the park maintains two catch-and-release trophy areas for serious fly fishing. The Forest Heritage Center, a well-regarded museum dedicated to the forestry history of the region, makes for a worthwhile stop even in non-fishing visits. Hiking trails range from the easy Cedar Bluff Nature Trail and Friends Trail Loop to the challenging Skyline Trail, which involves creek crossings, steep climbs, and waterfall views. The David Boren Hiking Trail extends 16 miles through the forest for serious trekkers. Broken Bow Lake delivers boating, water skiing, swimming, and kayaking for those who want more open water than the river provides. Eagle watches run from November through February, when bald eagles winter along the river and lake.
The park operates 47 on-site cabins with kitchenettes and pet-friendly options, alongside 393 campsites and two yurts on the Mountain Fork River. Leashed pets are welcome throughout the park, making it one of the more dog-friendly state parks in Oklahoma.
Families appreciate Beavers Bend for its blend of water recreation, trails appropriate for children, and lodge-style amenities within the park itself. Multi-generational groups find the park comfortable for a wide range of ability levels, from horseback rides and mini-golf to fly fishing clinics and serious hikng. Pet-first travelers will find the park explicitly pet-welcoming, with pet-friendly park cabins and trails throughout.
The surrounding Hochatown area has transformed dramatically in recent years into one of Oklahoma’s premier cabin destination communities, with hundreds of private vacation rental properties ranging from cozy one-bedroom retreats to luxury homes with multiple bedrooms, hot tubs, fire pits, private decks overlooking the forest, and fully equipped kitchens. Properties with dock or boat slip access on Broken Bow Lake are available for those who want to combine lake days with park visits. The density of rental inventory in Hochatown means availability across a wide range of budgets and group sizes, from couples to large multi-generational gatherings that sleep a full extended family comfortably. Book your accommodations near Beavers Bend State Park through Lake.com.
Seasons
As the ice thaws, Beavers Bend State Park bursts into life with a kaleidoscope of wildflowers and new greenery. Spring temperatures average a comfortable 60-70°F, making it an ideal time for hiking the park’s many trails. Guided nature walks let you embrace the freshness of the season. Activities: Hiking, fishing, bird watching Advantages: Less crowded, vibrant nature
Say hello to Summer, when the sun’s out and days stretch longer! Average temperatures range from the high 80s to low 90s, perfect for taking a dive in Broken Bow Lake or floating down the Mountain Fork River. Bring your sunscreen and plenty of water; the heat is on, but so is the fun! Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking Nature’s Bonus: Lush greenery, longer days for more adventure
Fall at Beavers Bend is a parade of color with the trees donning their reds, yellows, and oranges. With average temperatures in the 60s and 70s, it’s the perfect sweater weather for a cozy picnic or attending seasonal events surrounded by fall colors. Activities: Fishing, hiking, photography Seasonal Perks: Lower humidity, beautiful fall foliage
Winter may bring chillier days, with averages in the 40s and 50s, but the park’s beauty is worth donning the extra layers. Although some areas may be less accessible due to weather, the park’s frost-covered landscape is serene. Activities: Hiking, eagle watching, relaxing by the fire Weather Note: While snow is rare, it adds a magical touch when it happens
Top 3 Facts about Beavers Bend State Park
Beavers Bend State Park covers 3,482 acres in McCurtain County in southeastern Oklahoma’s Ouachita Mountains, adjacent to Broken Bow Lake, a 14,000-acre reservoir with 180 miles of shoreline. Cold-water releases from Broken Bow Dam maintain the Mountain Fork River at 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, sustaining the only year-round trout fishery in Oklahoma with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation stocking of rainbow and brown trout throughout all seasons.
The park was established in 1937 on land historically associated with the Choctaw Nation; its name honors John T. Beavers, a Choctaw intermarried citizen who originally owned part of the land. The Civilian Conservation Corps contributed significantly to the park’s original construction beginning in 1935. Beavers Bend absorbed the former Hochatown State Park in 2017, expanding its scope. The park was one of seven Oklahoma state parks in the path of totality during the April 8, 2024 total solar eclipse.
Beavers Bend State Park draws over a million visitors annually to one of the most diverse outdoor recreation landscapes in the southern plains. Activities include year-round trout and bass fishing, kayaking and canoeing on the Mountain Fork River, boating and water skiing on Broken Bow Lake, hiking on 16-plus miles of trails including the David Boren Hiking Trail, horseback rides, and bald eagle watches from November through February along the river and lake corridor.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Park cabins and nearby Hochatown vacation rentals fill many months in advance for summer weekends, fall foliage season, and holiday periods. Book as early as possible. A daily vehicle parking pass is required to park within the state park; purchase online in advance or on site. The park address for navigation is 4350 S. Beaver Lodge Rd, Broken Bow, OK 74728. Check the park’s official page at travelok.com/beavers-bend for current activity schedules, cabin availability, and any seasonal facility changes. Carry cash and a fishing license if planning to fish.
Pack Appropriately
Wear water shoes or river sandals for Mountain Fork River access, where rocky beds are standard. Bring insect repellent for summer visits near the river and lake. Pack layers for cool mornings and evenings in the Ouachita foothills, which are noticeably cooler than surrounding plains at all seasons. Hiking boots with grip are recommended for the Skyline Trail’s steep sections and creek crossings. Anglers should bring appropriate cold-water fly fishing gear and confirm current stocking schedules with Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation before arriving.
Respect Wildlife
Black bears inhabit the Ouachita Mountain forests surrounding the park. Never approach, feed, or attempt to attract bears. Store all food in vehicles or bear-resistant containers when camping. Bald eagles winter along the river and lake from November through February; observe from a respectful distance and do not approach roosting or feeding birds. White-tailed deer are active throughout the park year-round; keep leashed pets under control and away from deer and other wildlife. Confirm current park pet policies before your visit.
Stay Informed
Check the Oklahoma State Parks website and travelok.com/beavers-bend for current trail conditions, cabin availability, activity schedules, and any park alerts. Mountain Fork River conditions can change after heavy upstream rainfall, which can affect floating and wading safety. For park emergencies, call 9-1-1. For non-emergency park information, contact the Beavers Bend park office through Oklahoma State Parks at (580) 494-6300.
- Area (mi²)
- 5.5
- Annual visitors
- 1 000 000
- Established year
- 1937
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Beavers Bend State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Beavers Bend State Park is Broken Bow, Oklahoma, which is about 8 miles south of the park along Highway 259.
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The Tree Trail is a good option for kids, as it is a 1-mile looped trail that is relatively easy and follows along Beaver Creek, allowing children to walk on rocks and observe wildlife. It has a short but fairly steep climb at the beginning and end, but is otherwise suitable for younger kids and less experienced hikers.
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Dogs must be kept on a leash that is no longer than 10 feet. They cannot be left unattended. This rule applies to all areas of the park.
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Parking costs are included with the rental of any accommodation, but additional vehicles incur a parking fee that needs to be registered. No specific cost for additional vehicle parking is provided.
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You can enjoy hiking, biking, boating, fishing, water skiing, and nature center activities. There are also river float trips, canoeing, and horseback riding opportunities. Additional activities include visiting the Forest Heritage Center, Beavers Bend Nature Center, and taking part in zip line tours or ATV adventures through the forest.