Cave Island Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Cave Island Falls
Cave Island Falls is a quietly scenic waterfall in Oklahoma, framed by distinctive rock and wooded surroundings that reward those who take the trail in. The site sits within the Chickasaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area and is managed as tribal land (Manager: TRIB) on property listed under owner DESG, so visitors should approach the area with respect for its cultural and land-management context. The setting is inviting for hikers seeking a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path outing rather than a heavily developed attraction. Access to the falls is commonly made via a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating, making it a satisfying half-day hike for most fit walkers. Cold Springs Campground (Chickasaw) lies about 1.29 km away and provides a convenient nearby option for camping or using as a basecamp while you explore the falls and surrounding woods.
The Setting
Cave Island Falls sits at 1,017 feet within Chickasaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area, fed by the Rock Creek, in the foothills of Oklahoma.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Route: 2.4 miles (out-and-back); Elevation gain: ~350 ft; Difficulty: Moderate. The trail leads through forested areas and uneven terrain; expect natural, unpaved footing and some moderate uphill sections. No USFS trail number, surface, grade, or official trail class is listed for this route in the provided data—this is a tribal-managed (TRIB) trail on land owned by DESG—so trailside conditions and signage can vary. Hikers should wear sturdy footwear, allow extra time for slower footing, and follow any posted tribal regulations or seasonal advisories.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful natural setting with a waterfall surrounded by unique rock formations. The area may be less crowded, offering a tranquil experience.
Accessibility
The trail and waterfall area may not be accessible for individuals with mobility challenges due to uneven terrain and lack of infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cave Island Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cave Island Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be higher due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and be prepared for remote conditions. Cell service may be limited, so inform someone of your plans before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
7 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 37 years of record
5.28 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Rock Creek at Sulphur, OK (3 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
8 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
8 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
8 cfs
4/10Sat
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Sulphur hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Here the descent is spread out: 3-meter lidar measures about 42 feet of drop through Cave Island Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,017 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 34 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 19 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,017 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 42 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cave Island Falls is located in a remote area of Oklahoma. Access may require navigating unpaved roads and potentially hiking through forested terrain. Visitors should research specific directions before traveling.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along nearby roads or designated areas if available.
Elevation
1,017 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.506756° N, -96.953627° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear, as the terrain may be uneven. Carry plenty of water and snacks, and ensure you have a map or GPS as the area may lack clear signage.
Where to Stay
Comfort Inn & Suites Pauls Valley - City Lake
Turner Falls Park Villa
Village Inn
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Hotel - Pauls Valley by IHG
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Cold Springs Campground (Chickasaw)
0.8 miles away · 64 sites
Overview Cold Springs Campground is a popular summer campground conveniently located 5-7 minutes from the town of Sulphur. Travertine Creek, directly across from Cold Springs, provides several refreshing spring-fed swimming areas to escape the summer heat. Other nearby attractions, such as Little Niagara and the Travertine Nature Center, make this campground an ideal location for both seasoned and first-time campers.El Camping Cold Springs es un popular camping de verano, convenientemente ubicado
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other natural attractions in Oklahoma, such as Turner Falls or the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, may be worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area may host a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Cave Island Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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