Blackburn OklahomaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Blackburn, Oklahoma.
1. Arkansas River Ford
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
The Arkansas River Ford at Blackburn served as a natural crossing point along the Arkansas River. Throughout its history, this location featured various crossing methods including a toll bridge, a wagon bridge, and a ferry service. This historic crossing point represents an important part of Blackburn's transportation history.
2. Blackburn Ghost Town
OKLAHOMA'S HISTORIC PAST
Blackburn Ghost Town offers visitors a glimpse into Oklahoma's past as one of the state's abandoned settlements. The town was positioned on the south side of the Arkansas River and once served as a community hub. Despite discovering oil nearby, Blackburn never developed into an oil-boom town, which contributed to its eventual decline.
3. Former Pawnee County Fairgrounds
EARLY 1900S FAIR SITE
The Former Pawnee County Fairgrounds in Blackburn hosted county fairs from 1903 to 1909. This historic site represents an important community gathering place during Blackburn's more prosperous years. Visitors can imagine the bustling atmosphere of early 20th century agricultural fairs that once animated this location.
4. Top of Oklahoma Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Top of Oklahoma Historical Society Museum showcases the rich history of Blackwell and the surrounding region. Visitors can browse farm tools, artwork, and artifacts that tell the story of the Cherokee Strip Land Run settlement period. The museum serves as a testament to Blackwell's enduring connection to its frontier past.
5. Blackwell Downtown Historic District
LATE 1800S ARCHITECTURE
Blackwell's Downtown Historic District features buildings dating back to the Cherokee Strip Land Run settlement period of the late 1800s. The district showcases architectural styles typical of frontier Oklahoma communities during their formative years. Visitors can stroll through history while appreciating these well-preserved structures that form the heart of Blackwell.
6. Buffalo Stone City District
FIRE-RESISTANT HISTORIC BUILDINGS
Buffalo's Stone City District features unique stone buildings constructed specifically to withstand fires before Oklahoma statehood. The downtown area maintains its historic character thanks to the founders' requirement that buildings be built of stone. This distinctive architectural approach has preserved Buffalo's historic character for modern visitors to enjoy.
7. Selman Guest Ranch
NATURAL PRAIRIE EXPERIENCE
The Selman Guest Ranch near Buffalo offers visitors an authentic experience of Oklahoma's prairie landscape. The ranch is considered a must-see destination in the region for nature enthusiasts and those seeking to connect with the state's natural heritage. Visitors can explore the expansive property and appreciate the high-plains grandeur characteristic of this part of Oklahoma.
8. Gloss Mountain State Park
STUNNING SELENITE FORMATIONS
Gloss Mountain State Park in Fairview features distinctive mesa formations containing selenite crystal that gives the mountains their characteristic gloss. The park offers hiking trails leading to breathtaking vistas of Oklahoma's northwestern region. Visitors can climb to Cathedral Mountain's summit for panoramic views of the surrounding prairie landscape.
9. Under Her Wing Display
PUBLIC ART INSTALLATION
The Under Her Wing display in Enid serves as a notable public art installation celebrating the region's cultural heritage. This striking artwork provides visitors with a visual representation of local values and artistic expression. The installation has become a distinctive landmark that enhances Enid's cultural landscape.
10. Standing Bear Museum
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
The Standing Bear Museum honors the legacy of Chief Standing Bear and the Native American heritage of Oklahoma. The museum features exhibits that tell the story of the Ponca Tribe and other tribal nations in the region. Visitors can learn about the significant contributions of Native Americans to Oklahoma's history and culture.
11. Red Carpet Country Scenic Drive
MAJESTIC PRAIRIE VISTAS
The Red Carpet Country Scenic Drive takes visitors through the impressive landscape of Oklahoma's northwest region. This driving route showcases the contrasting terrain, from prairie floors to elevated vistas, that characterizes this part of the state. Travelers experience the expansive, high-plains grandeur that once earned this region the nickname 'No Man's Land.'
12. Cherokee Strip Museum
LAND RUN HISTORY
The Cherokee Strip Museum preserves the history of one of America's last great land runs. Exhibits detail the 1893 Cherokee Strip Land Run that opened the region to settlement and shaped Oklahoma's development. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and recreated settings that bring this pivotal moment in frontier history to life.
13. Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge
UNIQUE CRYSTAL DIGGING
Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge offers the unique experience of digging for selenite crystals in designated areas. The refuge provides crucial habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife species across its distinctive salt flat landscape. Visitors can combine crystal hunting with wildlife observation for a multifaceted outdoor adventure.
14. Great Salt Plains Lake
RECREATION AND RELAXATION
Great Salt Plains Lake provides numerous recreational opportunities including fishing, boating, and swimming. The lake's shoreline offers camping facilities for visitors wanting an extended stay in this scenic area. Its position adjacent to the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge creates a comprehensive outdoor destination for nature enthusiasts.
15. Alabaster Caverns State Park
RARE GYPSUM CAVE SYSTEM
Alabaster Caverns State Park features one of the world's largest gypsum caves open to the public. The 3/4-mile cavern showcases rare black alabaster and houses several species of bats in its naturally air-conditioned environment. Guided tours take visitors through this geological wonder, revealing stunning formations created over millions of years.