Thackerville Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and explore in Thackerville, Oklahoma, with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Thackerville

Thackerville is a small town located in Chickasaw Country, Oklahoma, United States. It sits on the state’s southern border, near Texas, and is famously known as the host of the largest casino in the world - WinStar World Casino. The town is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its vast casino and resort complex. But there are more reasons to visit Thackerville than just gambling. Outdoor enthusiasts can choose from a wide range of activities, from hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing. The town boasts of several museums, cultural attractions, and historical sites worth visiting, making it an ideal destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Thackerville

Here are some must-visit places in Thackerville:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Red River Valley Museum: This museum highlights the history of Cooke County and its surrounding areas, showcasing exhibits dating back to the early pioneer days.
  • Butterfield Stagecoach Trail: This trail highlights the Butterfield Overland Mail Route, which operated from 1858 to 1861, and includes a restored stagecoach stop.
  • Chickasaw Cultural Center: This cultural center showcases the history and culture of the Chickasaw people through interactive exhibits, museums, and events.
  • Frank Buck Zoo: This animal park houses over 130 animals, including zebras, lions, and tigers.

Natural Attractions of Thackerville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Murray State Park: This park is the largest state park in Oklahoma, boasting of over 12,000 acres of forest, hiking trails, fishing spots, and water sports activities.
  • Gainesville State Park: This state park sits on the southern shore of Moss Lake and boasts of beautiful hiking and camping grounds.
  • Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge: This 12,000-acre wildlife refuge is home to over 340 species of birds, as well as several species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
  • Lake Texoma: This lake sits on the border of Texas and Oklahoma and is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Thackerville

Thackerville is surrounded by several scenic trails and parks that nature lovers can explore. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in the area:

  • Cross Timbers Hiking Trail: This 14-mile trail runs along the shoreline of Lake Texoma and offers stunning views of the lake.
  • Copperas Creek Mountain Bike Trail: This intermediate-level trail stretches over four miles and winds through the beautiful woods of Gainesville State Park.
  • Shelter Lake Trail: This easy two-mile trail loops around Shelter Lake and is perfect for beginners.
  • Trails of Lake Murray State Park: Lake Murray State Park has over 30 miles of trails, ranging from easy to difficult, and can be used for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.

Best Things to Do in Thackerville: Activities and Tours

There are several fun and exciting things to do in Thackerville, Oklahoma. Here are some of the best:

  • (Tours of) WinStar World Casino
  • WinStar Golf Course
  • WinStar Spa
  • WinStar Global Event Center
  • Boating and fishing at Lake Texoma
  • Visiting Hagerman Wildlife Refuge
  • Hiking or biking in the nearby state parks
  • Tour of the historic Butterfield Stagecoach Trail

Week-Long Itinerary for Thackerville

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for visitors to Thackerville:

Day Activities
1 Visit the Chickasaw Cultural Center and the Red River Valley Museum
2 Play golf at WinStar Golf Course and relax at the WinStar Spa
3 Take a tour of WinStar World Casino and explore its many attractions
4 Visit Lake Murray State Park and take a hike on one of its many trails
5 Go fishing or boating on Lake Texoma and visit nearby Gainesville State Park
6 Tour the historic Butterfield Stagecoach Trail and enjoy a picnic outdoos
7 Visit Frank Buck Zoo and head back to the airport

Food and Drink Scene of Thackerville

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken-fried steak
  • Biscuits and gravy
  • Tacos al pastor
  • Frito pie
  • Fried catfish
  • Barbecue
  • Chicken fried chicken

Local Beverages

  • Craft beer from 903 Brewers in Sherman, Texas
  • Wine from Blue Ostrich Winery & Vineyard in St. Jo, Texas
  • Margaritas and frozen cocktails at WinStar World Casino

Where to Stay in Thackerville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Thackerville has several accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious.

  • WinStar World Casino & Resort
  • Best Western Red River Inn & Suites
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Gainesville
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham
  • Super 8 by Wyndham Gainesville TX

What to Buy in Thackerville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Artifacts and souvenirs from the Chickasaw Cultural Center
  • Native American jewelry
  • Local produce and wine from the Blue Ostrich Winery & Vineyard

Local Culture and Customs of Thackerville

Thackerville is deeply connected to the Chickasaw Nation, and visitors will experience Native American culture during their visit. Visitors should respect the local customs and traditions and be aware of the cultural significance of some of the attractions.

Best Time to Visit Thackerville

The best time to visit Thackerville is from March to May and September to November. These months offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower room rates. The summers and winters can be quite extreme, with temperatures over 100°F in the summer and below freezing in the winter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Thackerville

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when in public places.
  • Try the local cuisine, including the chicken-fried steak and barbecue.
  • Visit the Chickasaw Cultural Center to learn more about the local culture.
  • Take advantage of the many outdoor activities the area offers.

Don’t:

  • Engage in any illegal activities.
  • Disrespect the local customs or culture.
  • Travel or hike alone, especially in the wilderness areas.
  • Carry large amounts of cash while gambling.

Safety and Health

Safety in Thackerville

Thackerville is relatively safe, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings, especially when visiting the casinos. Crime rates in the area are low, but visitors should take basic precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

Health in Thackerville

Thackerville has several medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, to address any health concerns or emergencies.

Getting to Thackerville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Thackerville is easily accessible from major cities in Texas and Oklahoma.

Airports Near Thackerville

  • Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
  • Love Field Airport (DAL)

Bus Stations Near Thackerville

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Gainesville, TX

Other Options

  • Renting a car
  • Taking a taxi

How to Get Around in Thackerville

Thackerville is relatively small, and most attractions are within walking distance. Still, visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to get around the town.

Where to Go Next from Thackerville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of exciting destinations near Thackerville, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas. Here are some of the nearest destinations:

  • Dallas, Texas
  • Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
  • Fort Worth, Texas

Conclusion

Thackerville, Oklahoma, is a hidden gem located in Chickasaw Country that offers something for everyone. Visitors can experience Native American culture, explore scenic parks, and enjoy gambling and entertainment at the world’s largest casino. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, history buff, or outdoor adventurer, Thackerville is the perfect destination.