Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve wilderness guide
Wildlife Preserve · OK

Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve is a unique combination of wildlife sanctuary, museum, and historic ranch in northeastern Oklahoma, offering visitors an immersive experience with native animals, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage.

Wildlife Preserve37004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Preserve

Total Wilderness Area

3700

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve is a unique combination of wildlife sanctuary, museum, and historic ranch in northeastern Oklahoma, offering visitors an immersive experience with native animals, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve, located approximately 12 miles southwest of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, encompasses 3,700 acres of diverse terrain including rolling hills, tallgrass prairie, woodlands, and reservoirs. Established in 1925 as a private retreat and museum by oilman Frank Phillips, Woolaroc combines natural habitats with a significant collection of Western art and artifacts. The preserve serves as a sanctuary for native and exotic wildlife such as bison, elk, longhorn cattle, mountain lions, and various bird species, emphasizing conservation and education. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the property by hiking multiple trails, take scenic drives through the ranch roadways, and visit the Woolaroc Museum, which showcases Native American artifacts, firearms, and paintings by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell. Recreational activities include guided wildlife viewing, photography, and camping in designated areas. The preserve’s varied landscapes provide excellent habitat for wildlife and offer visitors a chance to experience the history and natural beauty of northeastern Oklahoma. With its combination of cultural heritage and outdoor recreation, Woolaroc appeals to history enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike.

Field Guide · Wildlife Preserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Woolaroc Museum and Art Collection featuring Western and Native American artifacts✦ Native wildlife exhibits including bison, elk, longhorn cattle, and mountain lions✦ Scenic hiking trails through prairie, woodland, and creek habitats✦ Historic Frank Phillips’ ranch house and preserved oilman’s retreat
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Admission fee required for museum access; outdoor areas open during daylight hours with free access.

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).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Woolaroc Campground

Located near the museum and wildlife viewing areas, featuring tent and RV sites with basic amenities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

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

Bartlesville, Oklahoma
⌖ 2.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bartlesville, Oklahoma

Bartlesville offers a quiet outdoor escape with hiking, biking, and paddling near gentle rivers and rolling hills. Perfect for wildlife watchers and those seeking relaxed nature activities in eastern Oklahoma.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Copan, Oklahoma
⌖ 12.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Copan, Oklahoma

Copan, Oklahoma offers quiet lakeside adventures with boating, fishing, and hiking around its reservoirs and wildlife areas. This peaceful town is perfect for outdoor lovers seeking calm scenery and low crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Ramona, Oklahoma
⌖ 14.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ramona, Oklahoma

Ramona, Oklahoma offers a peaceful rural escape with easy access to hiking, fishing, boating, and bird watching around scenic lakes and wildlife areas. It’s a great basecamp for travelers seeking calm nature experiences off the beaten path.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Barnsdall, Oklahoma
⌖ 15.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Barnsdall, Oklahoma

Barnsdall, Oklahoma offers outdoor lovers quiet trails, wildlife viewing, and paddling near Woolaroc Preserve. This small town is a great base for peaceful nature escapes from spring through fall.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Nowata, Oklahoma
⌖ 19.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nowata, Oklahoma

Nowata, Oklahoma, is a small town perfect for anglers, paddlers, and nature lovers seeking quiet outdoor time. With peaceful lakes, gentle rivers, and friendly trails, it’s a great spot to relax and explore Eastern Oklahoma’s natural charm.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Pawhuska, Oklahoma
⌖ 20.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pawhuska, Oklahoma

Pawhuska offers outdoor adventurers a quiet gateway to the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve’s vast native grasslands and bison herds. Enjoy hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing in a culturally rich and lightly trafficked Oklahoma destination.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

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