Black Mesa State Park, Western Oklahoma

Sandwiched on a narrow strip of land between SE Colorado and extreme north Texas lies the Oklahoma panhandle. Rough prairie grass, yucca plants, and the occasional cactus belie the beauty that is Black Mesa State Park. With ancient rock formations and a river fed lake, the park offers exquisite camping under cliffs that once formed a shoreline approximately 150 million years ago.

Descending into the park requires dodging cattle in the road. After all, this is open range territory. The speed limit is 55, but approaching hills requires due diligence. Hitting a cow isn't like hitting a bunny. They do damage!

In the park you'll find a completely different terrain: a lake, river, and lots of vegetation. Deer and pronghorn are plenty but tend to keep away from humans.  Rock formations that were once an ancient shoreline now form the edge of a hiking trail. Hiking on the trail is moderately difficult with some large bowling ball sized stones that must be tackled dot the trail. However, the payoff is incredible with a view of the campsites and lake along the highest point.

Approximately 150 millions years ago this are was a shallow waterway with plenty of tall, coniferous tree. The remnants of them can still be found today in the form of petrified wood. 

Of course, this is the southern United States therefore a little religious vandalism is probably expected. 

The campsites are well maintained and some have shade trees. 

By far the best reason for visiting and staying here are the dinosaur trackway which can be found approximately 9 miles away near Kenton, Oklahoma. The trackway is on private land, however there is no fence or admission fee to visit.  The track lies in the middle of a creek bed which is prone to flooding and subject to being covered with mud. If possible, bring a pain brush or small broom to remove dry dirt from the prints for better viewing. After a rainfall though, expect viewing to difficult or impossible. Maps and directions on how to get to the dinosaur trackway can be obtained from the ranger station at Black Mesa State park. The mesa itself is close by the dinosaur trackway and is the highest point in Oklahoma. Due to time restraints I wasn't able to venture tot he top, but I will make another trip to do just that this summer. 

The trackway is approximately 150 million years old and was made by a Theropod (similar to T. rex). The impressions are about 8-10 cm deep and the details can be seen in the talon marks as the creature withdrew its foot from the muddy bank. 

Things to Know Before Visiting: 

The state park is fairly close to Kenton, Oklahoma but don't expect to find mush in terms of provisions such as gasoline or food. Boise City is the nearest community that will have these things.

Camping for RVs is 22 dollars a night. Pets are allowed, but must be leashed.

This is semi-arrid terrain which can be warm during the day but the temperature may drop 40-50 degrees by nightfall so be prepared with a jacket even during the summer months.