Nestled in the heart of southeastern Oklahoma’s stunning Ouachita Mountains, Hochatown has transformed from a small sawmill village into one of the state’s premier vacation destinations.
Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures, peaceful nature escapes, or family-friendly entertainment, this charming town near Broken Bow Lake offers something for every traveler.
With crystal-clear waters, towering pine forests, and an ever-growing collection of attractions, things to do in Hochatown span from adrenaline-pumping activities to relaxing retreats. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the absolute best experiences this Oklahoma treasure has to offer, ensuring your visit is nothing short of unforgettable.
Outdoor Adventures on Broken Bow Lake
The crown jewel of the area, Broken Bow Lake spans 14,000 acres with 180 miles of pristine, tree-lined shoreline that beckons water enthusiasts from across the country.
The lake’s crystal-clear, mountain-fed waters are perfect for boating, swimming, and a variety of water sports that make for incredible summer memories.
Renting a pontoon boat from Beavers Bend Marina gives you the freedom to explore hidden coves and small islands at your own pace. These peaceful spots are ideal for swimming, picnicking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
For thrill-seekers, jet ski rentals provide an exciting way to zoom across the water while taking in panoramic views of the forested shoreline. The lake’s depth and clarity also make it excellent for smallmouth bass fishing.
Water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing are popular activities that bring families together for hours of laughter and excitement on the water.
The Broken Tiki Tour offers a unique way to experience the lake aboard a fun tiki-themed pontoon boat, complete with music, refreshments, and stunning views of Beavers Bend State Park.
Hiking and Nature Exploration
When it comes to things to do in Hochatown with a love for nature, the hiking opportunities are absolutely exceptional.
Beavers Bend State Park features numerous trails ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain treks that reward hikers with breathtaking vistas.
The Skyline Trail is an 11.6-mile challenging route that winds through waterfalls and mountain peaks, offering some of the most spectacular views in the Ouachita National Forest.
For families and casual hikers, the Friends Loop Trail provides a more manageable 1.9-mile journey with equally impressive scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.
The Lookout Mountain Trail delivers incredible panoramic views after a moderate climb, making it one of the most photographed spots in the area.
Fall is an especially magical time for hiking, as the forest transforms into a kaleidoscope of gold, crimson, and orange hues from late October through early November.
Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, various bird species, and if you’re lucky, even bald eagles soaring overhead.
The trail along Lower Mountain Fork River offers peaceful walks alongside rushing waters where fly fishermen cast their lines for trout.
Fishing Paradise in Hochatown
The fishing opportunities around Hochatown are truly world-class, drawing anglers from across the nation to test their skills in these pristine waters.
Mountain Fork River provides year-round trout fishing below Broken Bow Dam, where the cool waters create perfect habitat for Brown and Rainbow Trout.
The river features 12 miles of designated trout water, making it one of Oklahoma’s premier fly fishing destinations with crystal-clear conditions.
Broken Bow Lake’s 180 miles of rock-lined shoreline yield excellent catches of smallmouth bass, walleye, and crappie throughout the year.
Local fishing guides, available through various outfitters, can take you to the best spots and provide expert instruction whether you’re a beginner or seasoned angler.
The Beavers Bend Fly Shop offers guided trips, equipment rentals, and everything you need to make your fishing adventure successful and memorable.
Family-Friendly Attractions and Fun Things to Do in Hochatown OK
Things to do in Hochatown with kids are plentiful, ensuring that families have countless options for creating lasting memories together.
Beavers Bend Safari Park offers a drive-through adventure where you can feed exotic animals like zebras, bison, ostriches, and various species of deer from your car.
The Hochatown Rescue Center & Petting Zoo provides hands-on experiences where children can feed, pet, and learn about rescued animals including prairie dogs, sugar gliders, alpacas, and even coatimundi.
Beavers Bend Mining Company lets kids pan for gemstones, shark teeth, and fossils in over 66 feet of sluice, providing an educational and exciting treasure-hunting experience.
The Maze of Hochatown challenges families to navigate through 29,000 square feet of wooden pathways while finding hidden Hochatown Hotspots to complete your game card.
Dino Dig Golf combines miniature golf with a prehistoric theme that kids absolutely love, featuring dinosaur displays throughout the course.
BigFoot Speedway and Hochatown Amusements offer go-kart racing for all ages, providing thrilling competition and family fun on well-maintained tracks.
A train ride on the 1/3 scale replica of the C.P. Huntington trains take families through Beavers Bend State Park, often spotting wildlife along the way.
McCurtain Cinema provides a great option for rainy days or evening entertainment, showing the latest family-friendly blockbusters.
Best Things to Do in Hochatown OK for Adventure Seekers
Adrenaline junkies will find no shortage of heart-pumping activities when exploring the best things to do in Hochatown OK.
Rugaru Adventures offers an unforgettable zipline experience with six lines ranging from 300 to 1,100 feet, reaching speeds of up to 35 mph high above the forest canopy.
The zipline tour includes breathtaking views over Broken Bow Lake and takes approximately 2 hours with expert guides ensuring both safety and maximum excitement.
Rugaru also features guided Swincar tours in fully electric off-road vehicles that navigate the challenging terrain of Beavers Bend State Park in an eco-friendly way.
ATV and UTV rentals from Bandits ATV & Boat Rental or Captain’s Hideaway Powersports provide access to 33 miles of old lumber trails through the Ouachita National Forest.
Horseback riding with Riverman Trail Rides or Glover River Trail Rides lets you explore over half a million acres of forested mountain trails on well-trained horses.
Rock climbing enthusiasts can test their skills at local climbing facilities that offer both bouldering and top-rope climbing experiences.
Helicopter tours with Sky Tours or Semper Fly Helicopters provide aerial perspectives of Broken Bow Lake and the surrounding wilderness that will leave you breathless.
Water Activities Beyond the Lake
The Mountain Fork River flowing through Beavers Bend State Park offers exciting opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding adventures.
Wild Goose Canoe & Kayak, Yippie Kayo Kayaks, and Tippa Canoe all provide rentals and guided trips down the river’s Class I and II rapids.
The river features exciting waterfalls and calmer sections lined with majestic bald cypress trees, creating diverse experiences for paddlers of all skill levels.
Stand-up paddleboarding on either the lake or river provides a peaceful way to explore while getting a great workout and enjoying nature from a unique perspective.
Paddle boat rentals offer a relaxing family activity that even young children can enjoy safely on calm waters.
For a more challenging adventure, the untamed Glover River provides a secluded, natural waterway for experienced paddlers seeking solitude.
Things to Do in Hochatown at Night
When the sun sets, Hochatown transforms into a vibrant destination with plenty of things to do in Hochatown at night for every taste.
Hochatown Saloon transitions from a restaurant into a lively dance hall at 9pm, featuring live country western and rock music on weekends that keeps the energy high until 2am.
The Tasting Room offers a more sophisticated atmosphere with specialty cocktails, an impressive bourbon selection, and a cozy ambiance perfect for conversation.
Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Tap Room and Abendigos both feature outdoor patios with live music on weekends, creating perfect settings for dining and entertainment.
The Hochatown Magic Show at the intimate theater delivers family-friendly entertainment with incredible illusions, humor, and an inspiring message that resonates with audiences.
Chili Dippers Golf Club stays open after dark, allowing families to enjoy miniature golf under the lights when temperatures cool down.
Stargazing around a cabin fire pit is a magical experience thanks to Hochatown’s dark skies, offering clear views of constellations and even the Milky Way.
Evening wildlife watching along quiet roads often reveals deer, foxes, and other nocturnal creatures going about their nightly routines.
Culinary Delights and Local Flavors
The dining scene has exploded in recent years, making food one of the best things to do in Hochatown today for adults with refined palates.
Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Taproom serves artisan pizzas with creative toppings alongside an excellent selection of craft beers in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
Pressa Italia brings authentic Italian cuisine to the mountains, with homemade pasta, traditional recipes, and a romantic ambiance perfect for special occasions.
Abendigo’s Grill & Patio specializes in perfectly cooked steaks and fresh seafood, plus a weekend brunch that has become a local favorite.
The Blue Rooster delivers comfort food at its finest with southern fried chicken, home cooking, and generous portions that satisfy any appetite.
Steven’s Gap Restaurant is legendary for its breakfast offerings, catfish dinners, and homemade pies that draw crowds from morning until closing.
Hochatown Saloon combines American cuisine with entertainment, serving quality food before transforming into the area’s premier nightlife destination.
Loblolly Chocolates offers handcrafted artisan chocolates that make perfect gifts or sweet treats to enjoy by the fire in your cabin.
Wine, Beer, and Spirits
Adult beverage enthusiasts will find several excellent options among the things to do in Hochatown today for adults seeking quality libations.
Multiple wineries in the area feature outdoor patios with fire pits, offering tastings of everything from dry Cabernets to sweet Moscatos in beautiful natural settings.
Beavers Bend Brewery and Mountain Fork Brewery both craft fresh beer on-site, with revolving taps featuring IPAs, Brown Ales, Pale Ales, and seasonal brews.
Hochatown Distilling Co. produces small-batch spirits and offers tours and tastings that showcase the craft distilling process.
The Tasting Room specializes in premium bourbon and whiskey selections, with knowledgeable staff who can guide you through tasting flights.
Many wineries offer live music on weekends, creating perfect settings for afternoon relaxation or romantic evening outings.
Unique Things to Do in Hochatown and Broken Bow
For travelers seeking unique things to do in Hochatown and Broken Bow that go beyond typical tourist activities, several distinctive options await.
Hochatown Escape Games challenges teams to solve mysteries within 60 minutes, including the popular “Cabin in the Woods” crime scene investigation room.
Body Harmony Day Spa offers award-winning therapeutic bodywork and a unique 90-minute Sensory Therapeutic treatment that has earned statewide recognition.
A Servant’s Hands provides in-cabin massage therapy, bringing relaxation directly to your vacation rental for ultimate convenience and privacy.
Gallery 259 Art Gallery combines visual arts with event space, featuring local artists and hosting special events in a unique waterfall-adorned setting.
The Old West Town Miniature Golf course winds through an authentic-looking Wild West village, complete with a blacksmith shop, stables, and church.
Hochatime and Hochatown Mountain Co. offer curated outdoor gear and lifestyle products that celebrate the area’s natural beauty and outdoor culture.
Whippoorwill Fudge Factory and Hey Sugar Candy Store provide sweet indulgences with handmade fudge and nostalgic candies that please all ages.
Seasonal Activities and Special Events
Each season brings unique experiences, making things to do in Hochatown different throughout the year for repeat visitors.
Fall foliage from late October through November transforms the forest into a spectacular display of color that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the region.
The annual Beavers Bend Folk Festival & Craft Show in November features turn-of-the-century crafts, demonstrations, live mountain music, and nearly 70 vendors at the Forest Heritage Center.
Winter visits offer cozy cabin experiences with hot tubs, fireplaces, and peaceful snow-dusted landscapes that create romantic getaway atmospheres.
Spring wildflower displays along hiking trails and roadsides paint the forest in vibrant colors while comfortable temperatures make outdoor activities ideal.
Summer brings peak water activities, with warm temperatures perfect for swimming, boating, and all-day adventures on Broken Bow Lake.
Holiday decorations in downtown Hochatown during winter months create festive atmospheres perfect for family photos and seasonal shopping.
Relaxation and Wellness
Not all things to do in Hochatown involve high energy, as the area also excels at providing peaceful, rejuvenating experiences.
Luxury cabin rentals throughout the area feature hot tubs, outdoor fire pits, and decks overlooking pristine forests where you can disconnect from daily stress.
Spa treatments at local facilities range from couples massages to full-day pampering packages that leave you completely refreshed.
Quiet mornings on cabin decks with coffee, a good book, and bird songs create the perfect start to leisurely vacation days.
Sunset viewing from lakeside points or mountain overlooks provides awe-inspiring displays of color reflected across the water and mountains.
Stargazing from cabin properties or dark sky viewing areas reveals constellations rarely visible in light-polluted cities.
Meditation and yoga in natural settings help visitors reconnect with nature and themselves in the tranquil mountain environment.
Educational Experiences
The Forest Heritage Center Museum inside Beavers Bend State Park showcases the region’s logging history with large dioramas and unique displays about the area’s natural and cultural heritage.
Wildlife watching throughout the area provides opportunities to observe and photograph white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, bald eagles, and numerous songbird species in their natural habitats.
The petting zoo experiences offer educational components where guides share fascinating facts about different animal species, their behaviors, and conservation efforts.
Fishing guides don’t just help you catch fish, they also teach proper techniques, share knowledge about local ecosystems, and explain conservation practices.
Shopping and Local Crafts
Exploring local shops is among the enjoyable things to do in Hochatown today for adults and families looking for unique souvenirs and gifts.
Janet’s Treasure Chest offers an eclectic mix of antiques, collectibles, jewelry, cowboy hats, and fun items for kids in a charming setting.
Hochabow represents the area’s luxury retail destination, featuring several premium shops offering upscale goods in an elegant atmosphere.
Local 259 combines a specialty grocery store with an amazing deli, excellent wine selection, and boutique shops all in one convenient location.
The various wineries and breweries sell bottled products perfect for taking a taste of Hochatown home with you.
Day Trips from Hochatown
The Talimena National Scenic Byway, less than an hour north, offers 54 miles of breathtaking mountain driving through the Ouachita National Forest with 22 scenic pull-outs.
This designated National Scenic Byway showcases spectacular fall foliage and stunning spring wildflower displays along one of the highest mountain ranges between the Rockies and Appalachians.
Glover River, a short drive north, provides Oklahoma’s only free-flowing river for fishing and paddling adventures in a more remote setting.
Exploring nearby small towns reveals additional dining options, antique shops, and local culture that adds depth to your Hochatown vacation.
Gaming and Entertainment
Choctaw Landing Casino opened recently with 600 slot machines, eight table games including roulette, blackjack and poker, providing adult entertainment options.
The resort also features Tuklo Grill for dining, a pool with cabanas, and an outdoor recreation venue with an amphitheater and beer garden.
The attached mercantile offers groceries, a deli, Starbucks, and a 24-pump fuel island for convenient one-stop shopping.
Planning Your Hochatown Adventure
With so many incredible things to do in Hochatown, planning your itinerary ensures you make the most of every moment.
Consider the season of your visit, as each offers distinct advantages from fall colors to summer water sports.
Book cabin rentals well in advance, especially during peak seasons and holidays when accommodations fill quickly.
Many activities require reservations, particularly guided tours, zipline adventures, and spa treatments, so plan ahead.
Pack appropriately for outdoor activities including hiking boots, swimwear, sun protection, and layers for changing mountain weather.
Download trail maps and area guides before arrival, as cell service can be spotty in some remote areas.
Check activity schedules for things like magic shows, live music, and special events that might enhance your visit.
Conclusion
From thrilling outdoor adventures to peaceful nature retreats, things to do in Hochatown cater to every type of traveler and vacation style.
This southeastern Oklahoma gem has evolved into a world-class destination while maintaining its small-town charm and natural beauty that first put it on the map.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, adventure trip with friends, or solo retreat, Hochatown delivers experiences that create lasting memories.
The combination of pristine wilderness, modern amenities, diverse activities, and genuine hospitality makes this mountain escape truly special.
Start planning your Hochatown adventure today, and discover why this hidden gem has become one of Oklahoma’s most beloved vacation destinations. The mountains, lakes, and forests are calling, and unforgettable experiences await around every bend in the trail.
FAQs
1. What is Hochatown known for?
Hochatown is famous for its stunning natural scenery, Broken Bow Lake, Beavers Bend State Park, and outdoor adventures like hiking, boating, and ziplining.
2. When is the best time to visit Hochatown?
The best time to visit is spring through fall (March–November) when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and the forests are most vibrant.
3. What are the top family-friendly things to do in Hochatown?
Families love visiting Beavers Bend Safari Park, the Maze of Hochatown, mini golf, go-karts, and scenic train rides through Beavers Bend State Park.
4. Are there cabins or resorts in Hochatown?
Yes, Hochatown offers hundreds of luxury cabins and cozy rentals with amenities like hot tubs, fire pits, and forest or lake views.
5. How far is Hochatown from major cities?
Hochatown is about 3 hours from Dallas, 4 hours from Oklahoma City, and 2.5 hours from Little Rock, making it an easy weekend getaway.
