Disclosure: We are a professional review site that receives compensation from the companies whose products we review. We test each product thoroughly and give high marks to only the very best. We are independently owned and the opinions expressed here are our own..
In mid-November 2020 we decided on a last-minute hiking trip to Beavers Bend State Park with plans to hike a couple more difficult trails. Because of our poor planning we got a late start and were only able to hike a few trails before dark. One of the trails on our list was the little-known Indian Nature Trail at Beavers Bend State Park in Oklahoma.
Indian Nature Trail at Beavers Bend State Park
The Indian Nature Trail is officially a 2.4 mile lightly trafficked there and back trail located within the state park. The trail features lake views and a decent elevation gain to the end of the trail. On the way back it is easy going because it’s all downhill. The trail isn’t officially listed on the park map and isn’t maintained by the park anymore. So, use at your own risk.
Our Hike
It took us about 30 minutes to find the trail head. Even with AllTrails help we had difficulties. We found several unofficial trails at the different roadside stops and viewing points. Once we found the correct spot, we were able wonder around a few minutes until our trail lined up with the AllTrails version of the trail.
During our visit we had no issues with bugs and overgrown grass/brush on the trail. Then again, we did do the trail in the late fall and already had a cold spell. Unfortunately, the trail was covered with leaves. But if we kept an eye on the path, we could see the lightly packed path that other hikers made. We just followed that and compared it to AllTrails. Along the way you will find old blazing markers on the trees that still point you in the right direction.
When we made it to top of the ridge line and the trail started to go downhill. We found several downed trees that blocked the rest of the path. Because most turn back at this point, we couldn’t find the old trail and decided to turn back.
Round Trip was 1.8 miles and our least favorite trail at the park. We won’t be doing this trail again. The views weren’t that great It’s the same view but from different angles on the trail.
Don’t forget to follow me on AllTrails.com for me great trails near DFW and North Texas.
Indian Nature Trail – Location
The trail is located at the viewing area parking lot at Stephens Gap (Dam). From 259 at Hochatatown take 259a and head towards the dam. Just before the dam you will find a scenic view area. Pull off there and park by the guard rails. You will seed an opening between the rails. The trails start there. Go up the path and turn left to hike the trail.
Tips For the Trail
- Bring plenty of bug spray
- Wear pants, no shorts
- Closed toed shoes or hiking boots/trail runners would be ideal. No sandals or slip-on the trail isn’t maintained, and you might twist an ankle or stump a toe in the underbrush.
- Bring some water in the hot months.
- Download a copy of the AllTrails map. Cell phone data is limited out there. The pro version allows you download maps to help you get to the hike and during the hike,
About the Images
The images were shot on an early afternoon. I had some issues getting the images to stay in focus and removing noise from the images. I was able to fix some of the issues in post. I used my Sony a6000 using my Sony SELP18105G E PZ 18-105mm F4 G OSS. I then edited the images with Adobe Lightroom CC, Topaz Labs Denoise AI, AI, Topaz Labs Sharpen AI , Aurora HDR, and Luminar AI. Some images were shot on my old Samsung Galaxy Note 8 and edited with Snapseed.
About James
That seems like a neat place