Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area

Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area is a scenic area located in southeastern Oklahoma. Situated within the Ouachita National Forest, this recreation area covers approximately 26,445 acres of beautiful natural landscapes.

The area derives its name from the winding staircase-like formation of the mountains, which offers breathtaking views for visitors. It is located in Le Flore County, near the towns of Heavener and Hodgen.

Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area has a rich historical background, with evidence of early Native American settlements in the region dating back thousands of years. The Ouachita Trail, a long-distance hiking trail that stretches over 200 miles, passes through this area, further enhancing its historical significance.

Visitors to Winding Stair Mountain have plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the numerous trails that meander through the forest, providing opportunities to observe wildlife and immerse themselves in nature. Fishing is also a popular activity in nearby Cedar Lake, where anglers can try their luck at catching various species of fish.

For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the area offers scenic drives with stunning overlooks where one can capture picturesque photos. Additionally, camping facilities are available, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully embrace the beauty of the surroundings.

Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area is conveniently located near several other notable attractions. Nearby Talimena State Park offers additional recreational opportunities, with its scenic drive along the Talimena National Scenic Byway – a route that weaves through the Ouachita Mountains and provides panoramic views of the valleys below.

Furthermore, the area is in proximity to Heavener Runestone State Park, which is famous for the mysterious Heavener Runestone, believed by some to be evidence of a Viking presence in the region centuries ago. This archaeological site attracts history enthusiasts and researchers alike.

Overall, Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area offers visitors an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of southeastern Oklahoma. With a combination of stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and nearby attractions, it is a destination worth experiencing for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area is situated in the southern region of Oklahoma, within the boundaries of the Ouachita Mountains. This picturesque recreational area can be found approximately 40 miles east of Talihina and 20 miles west of Heavener. Nestled in the heart of the scenic Winding Stair Mountain Range, the area offers breathtaking views of lush forests, deep canyons, and cascading waterfalls. Its strategic location on the western edge of the Ouachita National Forest provides visitors with an abundance of outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife observation. With its unrivaled natural beauty and convenient proximity, Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area has established itself as a prime destination for nature enthusiasts within the state of Oklahoma.

Address & Contact

Sorry we don't have an address for this park on file yet.
Phone: NULL
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area would be in the months of April to June when the average maximum temperatures range from 73°F to 87°F and the average minimum temperatures range from 45°F to 65°F. During this time, the monthly precipitation is moderate, ranging from 4.4 inches to 7.5 inches. This timeframe provides pleasant weather for outdoor activities and allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Campsites within or near Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area

Cedar Lake

The campground is located 8.2 mi from Heavener, OK and is open all year.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 24
Toilets: NULL
Showers: No
Potable Water: Yes

Billy Creek

The campground is located 1.9 mi from Muse, OK and is open all year.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 12
Toilets: Vault Toilets
Showers: No
Potable Water: Yes

Talimena State Park

The campground is located 5.9 mi from Talihina, OK and is open all year.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: NULL
Toilets: NULL
Showers: No
Potable Water: Yes

Winding Stair

The campground is located 11.7 mi from Heavener, OK and is open mid mar-mid dec.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 23
Toilets: NULL
Showers: No
Potable Water: Yes

Hotels within or near Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area

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Prime Inn & Suites

Located in Poteau, Prime Inn & Suites is within a 5-minute drive of Le Flore County Courthouse and Twyman Park. Featured amenities include wired Internet access (surcharge), a business center, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1702 N Broadway St, Shady Point, Oklahoma 74953
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites POTEAU, an IHG Hotel

Located in Poteau, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites POTEAU, an IHG Hotel is in a rural location, within a 10-minute drive of Le Flore County Courthouse and Twyman Park. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 201 Hillview Parkway, Shady Point, Oklahoma 74953
Web: Link

SureStay Plus Hotel By Best Western Poteau

Located in Poteau, SureStay Plus Hotel By Best Western Poteau is a 5-minute drive from Le Flore County Courthouse and 6 minutes from Twyman Park. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3111 N Broadway St, Shady Point, Oklahoma 74953
Web: Link

Black Angus Motel Poteau

Located in Poteau, Black Angus Motel Poteau is in a rural location, within a 5-minute drive of Le Flore County Courthouse and Twyman Park. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1700 N Broadway St, Shady Point, Oklahoma 74953
Web: Link

Safari On Glover River 2 Bedroom Cabin

With a stay at this cottage in Battiest, you'll be 23.1 mi (37.1 km) from Hochatown State Park and 26.6 mi (42.8 km) from Cedar Creek Golf Course. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 711 Glover River Road, Battiest, Oklahoma 74722
Web: Link

Sierra 1 Bedroom Cabin

With a stay at this cabin in Battiest, you'll be 23.2 mi (37.3 km) from Hochatown State Park and 25.2 mi (40.6 km) from Cedar Creek Golf Course. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 695 Hickory Bend Road, Battiest, Oklahoma 74722
Web: Link

Cimarron 1 Bedroom Cabin

With a stay at this cabin in Battiest, you'll be 24.7 mi (39.8 km) from Hochatown State Park and 26.8 mi (43.1 km) from Cedar Creek Golf Course. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 171 Hickory Bend, Battiest, Oklahoma 74722
Web: Link