If you’re looking for a fun, new way to keep the kids entertained while sticking to a budget, use this itinerary to explore some of Woodward’s top attractions - many of which are completely free!
Day One:
Reconnect with nature and take advantage of gorgeous northwest Oklahoma scenery with a stay at Boiling Springs State Park. This oasis on the plains is named after a natural “boiling” spring that still flows. After checking into your cabin or setting up your campsite, search out some of the park’s plentiful wildlife along one of the five hiking trails that make up the Boiling Springs State Park Trail System. You’ll find plenty of winding turns through mature trees, wooden footbridges and even stepping stones across the water. Bring along a picnic lunch spread out a blanket along the bank of the North Canadian River or settle in at one of several picnic tables scattered throughout the park.
After dining al fresco, visit the 7-acre spring-fed Shaul Lake for an afternoon spent fishing or play a round of golf at the Boiling Springs Golf Club. The golf club features an 18-hole course adjacent to the park with several challenging sand traps and water hazards, offering a challenging yet rewarding game.
During the warmer months, take the whole family to the seasonal swimming pool at Boiling Springs State Park. The renovated pool features a splash pad for small children, a rock-climbing wall for older kids and a slide for everyone. There is always a lifeguard on duty, as well as plentiful seating and shade. Plus, you can cool down with a sweet treat from the on-site concession stand that offers soda, candy and ice cream.
Once everyone has worked up a hearty appetite, a trip to Wagg's Bar-B-Q is in order. This eclectic barbecue joint serves up delicious brisket and ribs out of a former auto assembly plant built in the early 1900s. There's even a salad bar served out of a 1929 Ford.
Wrap up your day with a dessert of s'mores on a cozy campfire outside of your cabin, tent or RV at Boiling Springs State Park.
Day Two:
Begin your second day with a walk on the wild side at the Plains Indians and Pioneers Museum. Woodward is the hometown of lawyer and gunfighter Temple Houston, and visitors can see portraits and artifacts from his time in Woodward. The museum, which offers free admission, also features an 1870s Lee-Lienemann Cabin from Old Camp Supply.
For lunch, head downtown to Café Paradee for a delicious sandwich and pastry. The local café serves up sandwiches packed with flavorful meats, cheeses and house-made dressings in addition to gourmet coffee and desserts.
Spend the afternoon in the sun at Woodward's top-notch Crystal Beach Park. Surrounded by a spring-fed lake, the outdoor oasis offers something for everyone. Play a round of mini-golf, ride a miniature train around the park, take a relaxing paddleboat ride or engage in some friendly competition with a horseshoe tournament. The crowning jewel of the park is the Crystal Beach Aquatics Center where your little ones will be delighted with winding water slides, a giant water bucket, shooting canons and more.
End the day gathered around a table at Red Prairie Steakhouse for a dinner of Southern-style comfort food. The local steakhouse boasts a diverse menu of daily specials ranging from fried catfish and filet mignon to popcorn shrimp and hushpuppies. Finish your meal with a slice of signature cobbler or cheesecake for a sweet ending to your weekend in Woodward.
