LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Hickory Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Hickory Falls
Hickory Falls is a quietly scenic cascade tucked inside the Chickasaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area, on land owned by DESG and managed by tribal authorities (designation: TRIB). The setting is peaceful and photogenic, framed by native woodland that draws hikers and photographers looking for a less-crowded natural stop in Oklahoma. Visitors often praise the sense of seclusion and the opportunity to enjoy forest sounds and seasonal light at the falls. Access to the falls comes via a moderately paced out-and-back hike: the route covers 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. Because the site sits on tribal land, please respect any posted guidance and leave no trace. The hike’s moderate grade and manageable distance make Hickory Falls a rewarding day-trip for hikers comfortable with uneven forest trails.
The Setting
Hickory Falls sits at 974 feet within Chickasaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area, fed by the Honey Creek, in the foothills of Oklahoma.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Turner Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oklahoma at 77 feet, lies 9.4 miles to the northeast.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail length: 2.4 miles (out-and-back); elevation gain: ~350 ft; difficulty: moderate. The path travels through forested terrain with typical singletrack and natural surfaces—expect roots, rocks, and moderate grades rather than paved or heavily improved tread. USFS-specific surface/grade/class data are not available for this route; overall the trail is best described as a moderately graded, natural-surface woodland hike suitable for hikers with some experience on uneven ground.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Hickory Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hickory Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and stay on designated trails to avoid accidents. Watch for ticks and other insects, especially during warmer months.
Current Water Conditions
11 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 22 years of record
1.41 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Honey Creek below Turner Falls near Davis, OK (16 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
12 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
12 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
14 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
15 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
14 cfs
4/10Sat
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
12 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 Fox 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 96 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 970 feet.
The ground changes about 48 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 20 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 970 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 96 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Hickory Falls is located within the Chickasaw National Recreation Area in southern Oklahoma. Visitors can access the area by driving to the park and following signs to the designated trailheads.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated lots within the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Availability may vary during peak seasons.
Elevation
974 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.359256° N, -97.292242° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and holidays. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, as the trail may not have amenities along the way.
Where to Stay
Hilton Garden Inn Ardmore
Hampton Inn & Suites Ardmore
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ardmore
Quality Inn & Suites Ardmore
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
BUCKHORN PAVILION
17 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Buckhorn Pavilion provides a scenic opportunity to rent a day-use space for your next outdoor event or celebration. Located at the end of Buckhorn Road, it is approximately 10 minutes from the town of Sulphur and is an ideal spot for hosting birthday parties and other gatherings with friends and family. Ample parking and a spacious lakeside view make this pavilion ideal for larger groups. Note: Buckhorn Pavilion is not a campsite. Overnight stays are not permitted.Recreation Bring a swim
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area include Little Niagara Falls, Travertine Creek, and the Bison Pasture.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also spot bison in designated areas of the park.
Cities near Hickory Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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