Bokoshe Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat and stay, and transportation options in Bokoshe, Oklahoma. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for planning your trip to this small town in Choctaw Country.


Introduction to Bokoshe

Bokoshe is a small town located in Choctaw Country, in the state of Oklahoma, United States. It is situated in the heart of the Great Plains, surrounded by beautiful nature and rich cultural heritage. Despite its small size, Bokoshe offers a wide range of attractions and activities, making it a perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.

List of Places to Visit in Bokoshe

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, Bokoshe has plenty to offer. Here are some of the top attractions you should definitely visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Choctaw Nation Capitol Museum: A museum dedicated to the Choctaw Nation, featuring artifacts and exhibits showcasing the culture and history of the Choctaw people.
  • Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center: A historic site featuring prehistoric Native American artifacts and burial mounds.
  • Tanner Chapel AME Church: A historic church built in the late 19th century by African-American members of the community.

Natural Attractions of Bokoshe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Robbers Cave State Park: A beautiful park with hiking trails, fishing, swimming, and camping options.
  • Lake Wister State Park: A scenic lake with opportunities for fishing and water sports.
  • Talimena Scenic Drive: A breathtaking scenic route in the nearby Ouachita Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bokoshe

Bokoshe is a nature lover’s paradise, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Some of the popular routes in the area include:

  • Robbers Cave Nature Trail: A 2-mile loop trail through the scenic Robbers Cave State Park.
  • K-Trail: A challenging biking trail that stretches for 22 miles through the Ouachita Mountains.
  • Choctaw Nation Trail: A 35-mile trail that winds through the Choctaw Nation, offering stunning views of the surrounding nature.

Best Things to Do in Bokoshe: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, Bokoshe also offers a variety of other activities and tours. Here are some worth checking out:

  • Horseback Riding at Robbers Cave Stables: Enjoy a scenic horseback ride through Robbers Cave State Park.
  • Fossil Hunting at the Spiro Mounds: Join a guided tour to hunt for prehistoric fossils on the historical Spiro Mounds.
  • Kayaking on Lake Wister: Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the serene Lake Wister.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bokoshe

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Bokoshe:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Bokoshe, settle in, and explore the town
2 Visit Choctaw Nation Capitol Museum and Tanner Chapel AME Church
3 Go hiking in Robbers Cave State Park
4 Take a day trip to Talimena Scenic Drive
5 Explore the Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center and go fossil hunting
6 Enjoy horseback riding at Robbers Cave Stables
7 Go kayaking on Lake Wister before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Bokoshe

Bokoshe has a modest yet delicious food and drink scene, with plenty of local and regional specialties worth trying.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Catfish: A classic Southern dish best enjoyed at local joints like the Catfish Roundup.
  • Chili and Cornbread: A hearty and comforting meal best enjoyed at home-style restaurants like Missy’s Deli.
  • Choctaw Fry Bread: A traditional Native American dish best enjoyed at festivals and powwows in the area.

Local Beverages

  • Oklahoma Beer: Several local breweries like the Choc Beer Company offer a selection of craft beers and ales.
  • Route 66 Soda: A classic retro-themed bottled soda made in Oklahoma and found in many shops and restaurants in the area.

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

While Bokoshe is a small town, it offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors. Here are some of the best:

  • Robbers Cave State Park Cabins: Cozy cabins with beautiful views of the park, perfect for nature lovers.
  • Green Frog Inn: A charming bed and breakfast with a lovely outdoor space.
  • Holiday Inn Express Poteau: A modern hotel located just a short drive from Bokoshe.

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

Bokoshe may be a small town, but it has its fair share of unique and locally-made products worth bringing home.

  • Choctaw-made Crafts: Look for handmade crafts by members of the Choctaw Nation, such as beadwork, pottery, and textiles.
  • Made-in-Oklahoma Products: Sample and buy local products like barbecue sauce, herbal tea, and handmade soap at local shops like Made in Oklahoma.

Local Culture and Customs of Bokoshe

As a town in Choctaw Country, Bokoshe has a rich Native American heritage and culture. Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions, such as participating in powwows and avoiding any sacred sites unless given permission by the Choctaw Nation.

Best Time to Visit Bokoshe

The best time to visit Bokoshe is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild, and the natural scenery is stunning. Summer can get hot and humid, while winter can be cold and icy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bokoshe

Here are some useful tips for visitors to Bokoshe:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities available.
  • Try the local food and drink specialties.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect sacred sites or Native American traditions.
  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Trespass on private property without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bokoshe

Bokoshe is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should still exercise caution and common sense, such as locking their car and valuables, especially when hiking and camping.

Health in Bokoshe

Bokoshe has a small clinic for basic medical needs. For emergencies or more serious health concerns, visitors should go to the nearby city of Poteau or seek help in Tulsa.

Getting to Bokoshe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bokoshe

The closest major airport to Bokoshe is the Tulsa International Airport, located about 120 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Bokoshe

There are no bus stations in Bokoshe, but the nearby city of Poteau has a Greyhound bus station.

Other Options

Renting a car is the best option for getting around Bokoshe and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Bokoshe

The best way to get around Bokoshe is by car. However, biking and walking are also viable options for exploring the town and surrounding nature.

Where to Go Next from Bokoshe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bokoshe is located in a beautiful region of Oklahoma and serves as an excellent base for exploring other nearby destinations like:

  • Tulsa: A vibrant city with plenty of cultural and tourist attractions, located about two hours north of Bokoshe.
  • Fort Smith: A historic town with beautiful architecture and interesting museums, located about an hour east of Bokoshe.
  • Hot Springs National Park: A breathtaking national park with natural hot springs and beautiful trails, located about three hours southeast of Bokoshe.

Conclusion

Bokoshe may be a small town, but it offers an abundance of attractions, activities, and cultural experiences for visitors. With its natural beauty, rich history, and friendly locals, it’s easy to see why this Oklahoma gem is worth a visit. So pack your bags and start exploring all that Bokoshe and the surrounding area have to offer.