Nothing clears your head like some fresh mountain air in McCurtain County, Oklahoma. A hot tub in a luxury cabin doesn’t hurt either.Â
Whether you prefer a restful retreat in nature or the great indoors, southeast Oklahoma is the place to head for a getaway where you can really getaway.Â
No need to stress over the plans. Here are the seven best ways to relaaaaaax in McCurtain County.
1. Soak up those porch views
Whether you’re drinking up that morning air with a cuppa joe or sinking into a steaming hot tub, our cabin’s wide open porches were made for worry-free unwinding. And the chirping birds are happy to be your soundtrack.
2. Go bird watching
Speaking of birds, the lush Ouachita National Forest is a beacon for feathered friends. So grab a pair of binoculars and flock to Beavers Bend State Park for a moment of quiet. For more serious birders, Red Slough Wildlife Management Area is the place to go for a tranquil peek at over 324 species. And maybe even the rare roseate spoonbill.
3. Cast a line
The serene waters of the Lower Mountain Fork River could calm any storm. If your idea of meditation involves the slap of a fishing line on babbling waters, bring your pole — or treat yourself with a private guided fly fishing tour. You might reel in a trophy-worthy rainbow trout while you’re taking it easy.
4. Rejuvenate at your basecamp
Skipping stones is one way to relax. Hot stone massages are just a better one. While you’re in town, pamper yourself McCurtain County style. Many local licensed therapists offer in-cabin services to bring the spa to you. Facials by the forest? Uh huh. Couples massages by the campfire? Yep, those too. Just be sure to book in advance so you can rest easy upon arrival.
5. Become one with nature
Mountains, forests, marshes, rivers, lakes. Whatever your nature of choice, you’ll find it here. Hike among the pines, or clear your mind on a horseback ride. Rent a kayak for a peaceful glide down the awe-inspiring Lower Mountain Fork River. Or maybe you’re more of a picnic in the forest kind of granola. However you unwind, there’s more than enough scenery to take your breath away.
6. Float away your stress
Nothing says laid-back like a lowkey float on Broken Bow Lake or the Lower Mountain Fork River. Grab a tube in town, then head to shore and set sail. We hear a cold drink soothes the soul too.
7. Dig in to a campfire lit dinner
Who needs a white noise machine when you have the great outdoors? Pull up a chair and let the cicadas be your bliss as you roast some weenies and toast some s’mores. Don’t worry. Calories don’t count out over a campfire.
Alright, we handled the itinerary. Now, book your cabin and #GetHereAlready.
COVID-19 UPDATE
As a county, we’re continuing to do our part to help keep people healthy. From social distancing and keeping cabins squeaky clean to setting up hand-washing stations and offering To-Go services – the efforts to help you still get the most out of your time here, while being smart are going strong.
- Don’t travel if you’re sick or have been around someone who has been.Â
- Wash, wash, wash those hands. Soap. Water. 20 seconds. Get creative with a song choice. Follow it up with some alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover that cough. Cover that sneeze. Preferably with a tissue, then throw it away.Â
- Keep it clean. From frequently touched objects to surfaces, be sure to clean and disinfect.Â
- Put distance between yourself and other people. Something we’re all good at out here in nature.