LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
McSpadden Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About McSpadden Falls
McSpadden Falls is a quiet, lesser-known cascade tucked inside the Cherokee Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area. The falls sit on tribal land owned by DESG and managed by tribal authorities (designation: TRIB), giving the site a secluded, off-the-beaten-path feel. Water flow can vary with recent rainfall, so spring and wet-season visits typically show the falls at their most impressive. Access to the falls is via a short out-and-back route that climbs through wooded terrain; the hike is rated moderate and delivers a peaceful, wooded setting rather than a developed park experience. The nearest developed campground is Cherokee Landing State Park, about 24.4 km away, so plan accordingly for overnight stays and bring navigation or a map—the route has limited signage and uneven footing in places.
The Setting
McSpadden Falls sits at 761 feet within Cherokee Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area, fed by the Illinois River, in the foothills of Oklahoma.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Length: 2.4 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. The trail winds through wooded terrain and includes uneven footing and occasional steeper pitches; limited signage means hikers should stay alert to the route. No USFS trail name or number is provided in the available data, and specific USFS trail surface, grade, and class details are not available—expect natural tread that can be slippery when wet and bring sturdy footwear and basic navigation tools.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful natural setting with a small but charming waterfall. The flow of the falls may vary significantly depending on recent rainfall, and the area is surrounded by lush vegetation.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at McSpadden Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at McSpadden Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have a stronger flow due to seasonal rains.
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 watch for wildlife such as snakes. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or immediately after, as the trail may become hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
217 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 91 years of record
4.79 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 Illinois River near Tahlequah, OK (6 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
217 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
224 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
269 cfs
3/10Thu
Moderate
287 cfs
4/10Fri
Moderate
282 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
249 cfs
6/10Sun
Barely Flowing
230 cfs
5/10Best window: Sat — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early 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 Steely Hollow 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 28 feet of drop in the ground within a few hundred feet of McSpadden Falls. Elevation at the pin is about 766 feet.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 766 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 28 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
McSpadden Falls is located near the town of Clayton, Oklahoma, within the southeastern region of the state. Access may require navigating rural roads, so a reliable map or GPS is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of informal roadside spots or small pull-offs near the trailhead.
Hours
Elevation
761 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.977502° N, -94.925145° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may have uneven or muddy sections. Bring insect repellent, especially in warmer months, and carry water for hydration. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may become slippery after rain.
Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Tahlequah by IHG
Tru By Hilton Tahlequah, Ok
Hampton Inn Siloam Springs
Quality Inn Siloam Springs West
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
Cherokee Landing State Park
15.2 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of Tenkiller Ferry Lake
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Clayton Lake State Park is located nearby and offers additional outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and camping.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and reptiles. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes and ticks.
Cities near McSpadden Falls
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