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 on the park’s hiking trails. There, you’ll find plenty of winding turns through mature trees, wooden footbridges and even stepping stones across the water. Bring along a picnic lunch and dine on the bank of the North Canadian River. After dining al fresco, visit the 7-acre spring-fed Shaul Lake to cast your line and give the kids a fun fishing lesson.
Boiling Springs State Park also has a seasonal swimming pool that children will love. This renovated pool features a splash pad for smaller children, a rock wall for the bigger kids and a slide for everyone. There is always a lifeguard on duty, as well as plentiful seating and shade for the parents. Plus, you can cool down with a sweet treat from the on-site concession stand, which offers soda, candy and even ice cream from the local Dairy Queen. Wrap up your day by gathering around a cozy campfire and finding as many constellations as you can in the brightly lit night sky.
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.
Next up, head out for some fun in the sun at Woodward’s top-notch Crystal Beach Park. Surrounded by a spring-fed lake, this 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.
Once the family’s 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.
