LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Lick Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Lick Creek Falls
Lick Creek Falls is a peaceful, scenic waterfall in Oklahoma that rewards visitors with a quiet stretch of natural beauty—ideal for hikers and photographers looking for a relaxed outing. The site sits on land owned by DESG within the Chickasaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area and is managed by tribal authorities (TRIB), so visitors should treat the area with respect and follow any posted guidance while on the property. The most common route to the falls is a moderate, out-and-back hike of about 3.0 miles with roughly 300 feet of elevation gain. That approachable length and climb make Lick Creek Falls a satisfying half-day trip for fit beginners and regular day-hikers who want a scenic destination without an all-day commitment.
The Setting
Lick Creek Falls sits at 1,076 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 2.0 miles to the southeast.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 3.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Lick Creek Falls is an out-and-back route approximately 3.0 miles round trip with about 300 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. Expect a mix of dirt paths and rocky sections that require careful footing in places; much of the route is shaded by trees. There is no USFS trail name/number provided in the available data, so follow on-site signage and any tribal land regulations while hiking.
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 Lick Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lick Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have a stronger flow due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Hikers should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and watch for uneven terrain on the trail. Carry a map or GPS device, as cell service may be limited in the area.
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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Honey Creek below Turner Falls near Davis, OK (3 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 Davis 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 93 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,061 feet.
The ground changes about 47 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 111 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face north and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,061 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 93 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Lick Creek Falls is located within the Ouachita National Forest. Access typically involves driving to a trailhead near the falls, with the nearest town being Hodgen, Oklahoma. Specific directions may vary depending on the trailhead used.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated trailheads within the Ouachita National Forest. Visitors should check for signage and ensure they park in authorized areas.
Elevation
1,076 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.443977° N, -97.175575° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven in places. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, and consider bug spray to ward off insects. Check weather conditions before your visit, as rain can make the trail slippery.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 3.0 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Hilton Garden Inn Ardmore
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ardmore
Hampton Inn & Suites 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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
The Point Campground (Chickasaw)
8.9 miles away · 16 sites
Overview The Point Campground is a family-friendly campground located on Lake of the Arbuckles. Popular recreational activities include boating, swimming, fishing, bicycling, and birding. Due to its relaxed atmosphere, The Point Campground is a great outdoor destination for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Recreation Bring your boats and jet skis to enjoy the lake or pack your fishing rods to catch some of the state's finest bass, catfish, and crappie.Boating is a popular summer activity, bu
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Ouachita National Forest offers numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and camping opportunities. Nearby attractions include the Talimena Scenic Drive and Winding Stair Mountain.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be aware of the possibility of encountering snakes or other wildlife on the trail.
Cities near Lick Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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