Redrock Canyon State Park

Red Rock Canyon State Park is located in one of several red sandstone canyons that can be found in this part of the state-- and the history of this area is fascinating. These canyons date back 260 million years when an extensive shallow sea covered the region, bordered on the east by the Ouachita and Ozark Mountains. Sediment eroded from these mountains was carried westward by rivers as the sea receded. This sediment was worked into sand dunes by wind and water and eventually transformed into rock. After millions of years of erosion the canyons became what we see today. Before the mid-1800's, Plains Indians used the canyon as a winter camp for shelter from the cold and as a place to hunt game. With the discovery of gold in California, overland wagon trails were established, such as the California Road, which passed through the current site of the park. Gold-seeking forty-niners used the canyon as a natural landmark for guidance, and a favorite stop for fresh water, as well as a place to stop and repair their wagons.

In the early 1900's the area was made available for homesteads and a public drawing was held to determine ownership of the canyon. Several private and civic organizations operated the park until the Kiwanis Club of Hinton ultimately purchased the land and donated it to the state. The red rock walls of the canyon formed in such a way as to become a favorite area for rapellers to practice their skills. A small spring-fed creek flows through the park to create a heavily wooded environment not normally associated with western Oklahoma. The park also offers camping, picnicking, hiking, and swimming and is a favorite for group camping with a facility to accommodate 160 with 10 bunkhouses and a kitchen/dining hall. Other camping facilities include 5 modern RV sites with all hookups, 46 sites with water and electric, and 30 regular sites for tent camping. Other features include a small 1/4 acre pond, a handicapped accessible swimming pool with a bathhouse, a concession stand, a playground, a volleyball court, 4 comfort stations with showers, several unmarked hiking trails along the canyon sides and rim, and two short interpretative nature trails: the Rough Horsetail Trail (interesting variety of plant life) and the California Road Trail (wagon tracks can still be seen). Fall is an especially auspicious time to visit when the trees in the canyon display their colors. From rock climbers to armchair geologists, visitors will find Red Rock Canyon State Park an appealing destination.

Closest Motel is the Hinton Motel (405)542-3288

Phantom Canyon Ranch has a shaded campground, hiking trails, outdoor stage, steak house in campground specializing in steaks, homemade bread and pies. Ranch can be reserved for large groups, riding clubs or company parties. Phone 405-542-6218.