Beaver Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to eat, sleep, and shop in Beaver, Oklahoma with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Beaver

Welcome to Beaver, a small town in Oklahoma located in the Great Plains region of the United States. Despite its size, this town has a lot to offer visitors looking for unique cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. In this guide, we will take a closer look at all the exciting things to see and do in Beaver.

List of Places to Visit in Beaver

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Beaver has a rich history, and visitors can learn more about it by visiting the many cultural attractions in town. Here are some of the places you should visit to learn more about the town’s history:

  • Beaver County Pioneer Museum: This museum showcases the area’s history with exhibits ranging from Native American artifacts and homesteading equipment to displays of local art and photographs.
  • Beaver County Courthouse: Built in 1913, this historic courthouse is a prime example of the Neoclassical style and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Jones & Plummer Trail Museum: Located in the historic Jones & Plummer Trail ranch house, this museum features exhibits on Beaver County’s cattle industry and the history of the Santa Fe Trail.

Natural Attractions of Beaver: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Beaver’s natural beauty and endless opportunities for adventure. Here are some of the best things to do outdoors in Beaver:

  • Gloss Mountains State Park: This park is known for its unique geologic formations, including mesas and buttes that rise out of the surrounding prairie. Visitors can hike the trails, picnic, and camp overnight.
  • Beaver River Wildlife Area: This nature preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and turkey. Visitors can hike the trails, birdwatch, and fish in the river.
  • Optima National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge is a must-visit destination for birdwatchers, with over 300 species of migrating birds passing through each year. Visitors can also fish in the lake or hike the trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Beaver

Hiking and biking enthusiasts will find plenty of trails to explore in and around Beaver. Here are some of the best routes for outdoor adventurers:

  • Gloss Mountain Loop Trail: This 1.2-mile loop trail in Gloss Mountains State Park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mesas and valley below.
  • Beaver River Wildlife Area Trail: This 3.5-mile trail follows the Beaver River and offers great opportunities for birdwatching and fishing.
  • Alabaster Caverns State Park Trail: Located just a short drive from Beaver, this park features a 3/4-mile trail that takes visitors through a gypsum cave system.

Best Things to Do in Beaver: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours available in Beaver. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Take a historic downtown walking tour: Visitors can explore the historic buildings and architecture of downtown Beaver, including the Old 100 Oil Company Building.
  • Enjoy a day of golf: The beautiful Beaver Pioneer Park Golf Course offers an 18-hole course and a practice range.
  • Attend the annual Cow Chip Day Festival: This festival, held in April, celebrates the town’s cowboy heritage with events like a cow chip throwing contest, rodeo, and parade.

Week-Long Itinerary for Beaver

Day 1: Visit Gloss Mountain State Park and hike the Gloss Mountain Loop Trail. Day 2: Explore the Jones & Plummer Trail Museum and the Beaver County Courthouse. Day 3: Spend the day fishing and birdwatching at Beaver River Wildlife Area. Day 4: Take a tour of the Alabaster Caverns State Park and hike the park’s trail. Day 5: Play a round of golf and explore the historic downtown area. Day 6: Attend the annual Cow Chip Day Festival (held in April). Day 7: Relax and enjoy some local cuisine before heading home.

Food and Drink Scene of Beaver

Must-Try Dishes

Hungry visitors will not be disappointed with the food scene in Beaver. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

  • Chicken Fried Steak: This classic dish is a favorite in Oklahoma, and Beaver is no exception. Try it at local spots like The Hitchin’ Post or The Corral Drive Inn.
  • Fry Bread: A Native American staple, fry bread is available at many local restaurants, including PaPa’s Italian Restaurant.
  • BBQ Ribs: For a taste of Oklahoma-style BBQ, head to The Old Timer restaurant and try the ribs.

Local Beverages

Quench your thirst with some of the best local drinks in Beaver:

  • Prairie Wolf Vodka: Made right here in Oklahoma, this vodka is distilled from 100% wheat and offers exceptional quality and taste. Available at local liquor stores.
  • Choc Beer: This craft beer is brewed in nearby Krebs, Oklahoma, and has been a local favorite since 1919.

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

Visitors to Beaver have several great options for accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Beaver Dunes State Park: This state park offers RV camping and tent camping sites as well as a couple of yurts for those looking for more luxurious glamping.
  • Best Western Plus The Inn & Suites at Beaver: Located just off the main highway, this hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, complimentary breakfast, and an outdoor pool.
  • Capri Motel: A locally owned and operated motel with budget-friendly prices and clean rooms with modern amenities.

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

Take a piece of Beaver home with you and remember your trip forever. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to buy in Beaver:

  • Western Wear: Head to Jiffy Trip convenience store or the local gas stations to shop for western wear and accessories.
  • Handmade Jewelry and Art: Stop by the Beaver County Pioneer Museum gift shop to browse a selection of handmade jewelry and art made by local artisans.
  • Oklahoma-made Products: Visit Meadowlark Mercantile, a boutique that sells Oklahoma-made products like honey, soap, and home decor items.

Local Culture and Customs of Beaver

Beaver is a friendly town with a welcoming community. Visitors should respect the local culture by dressing modestly in public places and avoiding loud and disruptive behavior.

Best Time to Visit Beaver

The best time to visit Beaver is in the spring or fall. The weather is mild, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events to enjoy. Summer months can be hot, and winter months can be bitterly cold and windy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Beaver

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take the time to explore all of the town’s attractions.
  • Try some of the local cuisine.
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Don’t:

  • Be disruptive or disrespectful to locals.
  • Leave trash behind in natural areas.
  • Ignore safety precautions when engaging in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Beaver

Beaver is a safe town, but visitors should always take basic safety precautions. Lock car doors and secure valuables, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night.

Health in Beaver

Medical facilities in Beaver are limited, so visitors should take necessary precautions to stay healthy. Drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and avoid overexertion in the hot sun.

Getting to Beaver: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Beaver

The closest major airport to Beaver is Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA), located approximately 100 miles to the west.

Bus Stations Near Beaver

There are no bus stations located in Beaver. The nearest Greyhound station is in Woodward, Oklahoma, approximately 75 miles away.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Beaver via US Highway 270 or US Highway 64. Amtrak train service is available in Oklahoma City, approximately 200 miles south of Beaver.

How to Get Around in Beaver

Most attractions in Beaver are within walking or biking distance of each other. Driving is also an option, and there are several car rental agencies available in the area.

Where to Go Next from Beaver: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Beaver can explore other nearby destinations and excursions, including:

  • Black Mesa State Park: A serene and remote state park located about 70 miles from Beaver that features the highest point in Oklahoma, Black Mesa.
  • Woody Guthrie Folk Music Center: Located in Okemah, Oklahoma, this museum is dedicated to the life and music of legendary singer-songwriter Woody Guthrie.
  • Lake Meredith National Recreation Area: This park features a large reservoir and offers plenty of water activities like boating, fishing, and camping.

Conclusion

With its rich history, unique cultural experiences, and endless outdoor adventures, Beaver is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Oklahoma and the Great Plains region. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your visit to this charming town.