LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Lower Verdigris Falls (historical)
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Lower Verdigris Falls (historical)
Lower Verdigris Falls (historical) marks the former location of a natural cascade on the Verdigris River in Oklahoma. The waterfall no longer exists in its natural form after dam construction and river modifications changed the channel, and the site is now treated as a historic river feature rather than an intact waterfall. The area sits within the Creek Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area and is on land owned by DESG and managed by the tribal authority (Manager: TRIB), so visitors should be mindful of tribal jurisdiction and any access guidelines. Today the spot is best visited for its riverside scenery and historical interest rather than expecting a classic plunge pool and free-flowing falls. Nearby recreation opportunities include boating and shoreline exploration along the Verdigris, and primitive day-use visits are possible for those respecting local rules. For overnight stays, Sequoyah Bay campground is about 9.26 km away, offering a convenient base for exploring the river and nearby points of interest.
The Setting
Lower Verdigris Falls (historical) sits at 489 feet within Creek Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area, fed by the Arkansas River, in the coastal lowlands of Oklahoma.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is no maintained USFS trail or designated federal trail number to the original Lower Verdigris Falls site. An informal route exists for visitors interested in the historic location: an out-and-back of approximately 2.4 miles round-trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. Specific surface, grade, and official trail class data are not available for this unmaintained approach, so expect natural footing and variable terrain. Because the site lies within the Creek Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area (land owner DESG, manager TRIB), check local access rules, pack appropriate footwear, and consider camping at Sequoyah Bay (9.26 km) if you plan an overnight trip.
What to Expect
Visitors should not expect to see a natural waterfall at this location. The area has been significantly altered by dam construction, and the falls are now considered a historical feature. The surrounding region may offer views of the Verdigris River, Oologah Lake, and recreational opportunities.
Accessibility
Accessibility depends on the specific park or recreation area visited. Some areas may have paved paths or accessible facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lower Verdigris Falls (historical)?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lower Verdigris Falls (historical)?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and summer may be the best times to visit nearby recreation areas for outdoor activities, but the historical falls are not seasonally dependent as they no longer exist.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Be cautious near water and dam areas. Follow all posted signs and regulations. The historical falls site may be submerged or inaccessible, so avoid attempting to access restricted areas.
Current Water Conditions
10,500 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 23 years of record
18.19 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
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 Arkansas River near Muskogee, OK (12 km away).
Today
Moderate
7190 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
5722 cfs
9/10Wed
Strong
5574 cfs
7/10Thu
Roaring
10183 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
11455 cfs
6/10Sat
Strong
9796 cfs
10/10Sun
Moderate
7317 cfs
9/10Best window: Sat — strong flow, sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late June, peaking in May.
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 Okay 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: 1-meter lidar measures about 31 feet of drop through Lower Verdigris Falls (historical), stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 490 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 34 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 32 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 490 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 31 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The site of the historical Lower Verdigris Falls is located along the Verdigris River in Oklahoma. The exact location may be submerged or inaccessible due to the construction of the Oologah Dam and the creation of Oologah Lake.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is uncertain as the falls no longer exist in their natural state. Visitors may need to explore nearby parks or recreation areas along the Verdigris River or Oologah Lake.
Elevation
489 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.855430° N, -95.369215° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Research nearby parks or recreation areas for access points to the Verdigris River or Oologah Lake. Be aware that the historical falls no longer exist, and the area may be submerged or inaccessible.
Where to Stay
Quality Suites Tulsa I-44
Comfort Inn & Suites Muskogee
Hampton Inn & Suites Tulsa-Woodland Hills
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Tulsa Midtown
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
Sequoyah Bay
5.8 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of Fort Gibson Lake
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Oologah Lake, Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch, and various parks along the Verdigris River.
Wildlife
The area around the Verdigris River and Oologah Lake may host a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and small mammals.
Cities near Lower Verdigris Falls (historical)
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