Summer tans, rock bands, water sports, and cool resorts–there are many activities to enjoy as spring arrives just in time for Spring Break. In Oklahoma, there are endless opportunities for those looking for adventure or relaxation.
Lake Overholser
This outdoor destination offers a variety of activities for individuals and groups and is located just five miles (approximately ten minutes by car) from campus. The area features a 2.5-mile scenic walking trail that runs along the water’s edge. In addition, kayaks are available for rental, offering an opportunity for solo travel or an adventurous duo at approximately $20 per person. For those preferring a more leisurely experience, the lake provides shaded areas ideal for picnics or fishing.
Local Parks
Several parks in Bethany, Oklahoma, provide excellent locations for outdoor recreation:
- Eldon Lyon Park – One of the largest parks in Bethany, featuring picnic tables, basketball courts, disc golf, and a running track. It is an ideal location for a change of scenery and is only four minutes away from campus by car.
- Garrison Park – Located seven minutes from campus, this park includes a picnic shelter, picnic tables, a walking trail, a basketball court, BBQ grills, and a disc golf course winding through the trees.
- Additional Parks – Other notable locations include Dolese Park, which features a pond, ducks, a walking trail, and a disc golf course, as well as Will Rogers Park, which offers similar amenities.
Outdoor Puzzle Adventures
For those who enjoy mental challenges and do not mind exploring the outdoors, scavenger hunts provide an engaging way to experience nature. This activity is ideal for a group of friends or a couple looking for quality time together. Two well-known outdoor adventure games offer unique experiences:
Geocaching
Geocaching is a GPS-based treasure hunt that involves finding hidden containers, or “caches.” Participants download the Geocaching app on their phones and use GPS coordinates to locate caches. Once found, the cache may contain a logbook to sign and small prizes. It is customary to leave an item if taking something from the cache. Participants must also return the container to its original location for others to find.
Letterboxing
Letterboxing is a lesser-known alternative to Geocaching that does not require an app. Instead, participants visit Atlas Quest to find letterboxing coordinates, which can be entered into Google Maps for navigation. Unlike Geocaching, this activity involves using stamps. Each letterbox contains a unique stamp that participants imprint into their personal logbook, and in return, they leave their own stamp in the letterbox’s logbook. Many enthusiasts carve their own stamps using a pink eraser. As with Geocaching, it is essential to respect the environment and rehide the letterbox in its original location.
Make the Most of Spring
Whether seeking relaxation, physical activity, or a mental challenge, there are plenty of options to enjoy before the arrival of summer’s unrelenting heat. Take advantage of the nice weather and explore the many activities Oklahoma has to offer.
Photo by: Katherine Baker