Oxley Nature Center wilderness guide
Nature Center · OK

Oxley Nature Center

Oxley Nature Center offers a peaceful retreat into nature with its diverse habitats and extensive trail system, ideal for wildlife viewing and hiking enthusiasts.

Nature Center800+4+ Trails

Designation

Nature Center

Total Wilderness Area

800+

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Oxley Nature Center

Oxley Nature Center offers a peaceful retreat into nature with its diverse habitats and extensive trail system, ideal for wildlife viewing and hiking enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Oxley Nature Center is a natural oasis within the city's bustling environment. Spanning over 800 acres, the center is part of Tulsa's Mohawk Park and provides a remarkable array of ecological zones, including forests, prairies, and wetlands. This diversity supports abundant wildlife, making it a prime spot for bird watching; over 200 species of birds have been identified in the area, drawing ornithologists and casual birders alike. Established in the 1970s, the nature center has since become an educational hub, offering visitors a chance to learn about local flora and fauna through guided programs and workshops. The center features approximately nine miles of trails, each offering varying levels of difficulty and opportunities for exploration. Visitors can enjoy peaceful hikes through woodlands, take in the open vistas of prairie land, or explore vibrant marsh habitats. The main attractions include the Interpretive Building, where guests can gather information and view interactive exhibits, and the North Woods Loop, known for its serene wooded paths and abundant wildlife sightings. Regardless of the season, Oxley Nature Center remains an appealing destination for those seeking a refreshing outdoor experience.

Field Guide · Nature Center
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Oxley Nature Center

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Interpretive Building with educational exhibits✦ Over 200 species of birds, making it a bird watcher's paradise✦ The scenic North Woods Loop trail✦ Wetlands bridge offering close views of aquatic wildlife
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Oxley Nature Center

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Oxley Nature Center
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Oxley Nature Center
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Oxley Nature Center
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Oxley Nature Center.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, no permits required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Oxley Nature Center

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Owasso, Oklahoma
⌖ 3.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Owasso, Oklahoma

Owasso offers laid-back outdoor experiences with parks, trails, and fishing spots just outside Tulsa. Perfect for casual hiking, biking, and family outings in northeast Oklahoma.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Skiatook, Oklahoma
⌖ 11.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Skiatook, Oklahoma

Skiatook, Oklahoma, is a peaceful lakeside town centered on Skiatook Lake, offering boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. Ideal for water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking scenic tranquility close to nature.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
⌖ 12.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, offers outdoor lovers a blend of urban convenience and nature with great hiking, biking, and paddling nearby. Its parks and trails provide a relaxing yet active experience close to Tulsa.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Sand Springs, Oklahoma
⌖ 13.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sand Springs, Oklahoma

Sand Springs is a welcoming town perfect for outdoor lovers seeking hiking, mountain biking, and paddling near Tulsa. Its trails, river access, and calm camping spots make it great for nature outings year-round.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Jenks, Oklahoma
⌖ 14.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jenks, Oklahoma

Jenks, Oklahoma offers easy access to paddling, hiking, and biking along the scenic Arkansas River. Its friendly parks, fishing spots, and notable landmarks like the Big River Crossing make it a great base for outdoor fun from spring to fall.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Rogers County, Oklahoma
⌖ 16.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rogers County, Oklahoma

Rogers County offers outdoor lovers peaceful lakes, forested hiking and biking trails, and top paddling spots on the Verdigris River. It’s a quiet, less-crowded destination ideal for camping, fishing, and bird watching from spring through fall.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Oxley Nature Center

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Adults‑Only Bounce: 16+ Night in Tulsa’s Giant Inflatable Playground
ADVEXPEDITION
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Pop Up AttractionADV Bookable

Adults‑Only Bounce: 16+ Night in Tulsa’s Giant Inflatable Playground

A three‑hour, ticketed, 16+ session at Mohawk Sports Complex that gives adults exclusive access to the World’s Biggest Bounce House and themed inflatables; this guide explains rules, what to bring, and the on‑site attractions.

Pop Up AttractionPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Shaggin’ Wagon: Step Inside Tulsa’s Time-Stamped 1970s Trailer
ADVEXPEDITION
Tulsa, Oklahoma
RentalsADV Bookable

Shaggin’ Wagon: Step Inside Tulsa’s Time-Stamped 1970s Trailer

A two-hour, retro trailer rental in Tulsa outfitted with shag ceiling carpet, lava lamps, a working VHS player and seating for up to 10 — this guide explains what the Shaggin’ Wagon is and what to expect.

RentalsPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip