Dig For Crystals In A Stunning Salt Plain In Oklahoma's Most Unique State Park

While the southwestern state of Oklahoma evokes images of vast prairies and perhaps the occasional tornado, there are more landscapes to explore than one might think. From an underrated state park with unbeatable scenery in the northeastern part of the state to hiking trails near dinosaur tracks in the western part, this unique state has plenty to see for outdoor lovers. Oklahoma sightseeing also often comes with campgrounds and fun for the whole family, too.

Just over two hours north of the budget-friendly Oklahoma City is Salt Plains State Park near the small town of Jet, Oklahoma. What makes this 11,200-acre state park surprising is the fact that, despite being a landlocked state, the salt flats here are left over from prehistoric times when present-day Oklahoma was actually covered by the ocean. Aside from enjoying the seemingly endless white land that stretches for miles, you can marvel at the crystals that lie in these salt plains, too. For maximum geologic exploration, and to have even more family-friendly outdoor adventures, check out nearby campsites and stay a while.

The crystals at Salt Plains State Park are not just any crystals. They are hourglass-shaped selenite crystals. This soft, delicate type of crystal is thought to have cleansing and healing properties. Crystal enthusiasts also look to selenite crystals to help with energy blocks due to stress or general negative energy. People hold them while meditating or place them in their homes to draw out negative energy.

Those who do not have an interest in crystal use can definitely still enjoy digging for these little treasures at Salt Plains State Park. Park visitors of all ages can feel like a geologist when searching through the upper layers of the ground in the hopes of discovering some crystals of your own. You can dig for them free of charge on any day from April through October 15th every year. Bring a shovel and sun protection. After digging, you can let nature take over as local wildlife actually makes use of the post-dig holes. The designated digging area changes each year to prevent any single area from too much human influence.

Salt Plains State Park includes the Great Salt Plains Lake. Take a dip in this saltwater lake at Sandy Beach if you need a break from the heat, or bring a fishing pole and try to catch catfish, sand bass, and more. Keep an eye out for birds, too. Salt Plains State Park sees around 300 different species of birds including golden eagles, bald eagles, and ducks around the shore. There are also hiking and horseback riding trails to explore around the park, but you will need your own horse.

From cabins to old-fashioned camping, there are cozy places to stay near the park as well. Aside from quaint on-site cabins, RV spots at River Road Campground and Sandy Beach are equipped with electrical hookups. Tent sites are at the Salt Plains Tent Area, River Road, North Spillway, and South Spillway campgrounds. Other significant draws for Salt Plains State Park are the Nathan Boone Equestrian Campground and the George Sibley Equestrian area. Travelers with horses can stay at these special overnight options that feature accommodations for horses. All but the George Sibley Equestrian area can be reserved online. Reserve a spot at George Sibley in person at the park.