Panther Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Panther Falls
Panther Falls is a picturesque cascade tucked into the scenic woodlands of south-central Oklahoma. The falls drop over a rocky ledge into a clear pool tucked among shaded boulders, creating a peaceful spot for picnicking, photography, and a short nature break. The site lies within the Chickasaw National Recreation Area and on lands identified as part of the Chickasaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area, managed by tribal authorities (Designation: TRIB).
The Setting
Panther Falls sits at 958 feet within Chickasaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area, fed by the Rock Creek, in the foothills of Oklahoma.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The approach to Panther Falls is a well-marked out-and-back trail totaling about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain; the route is rated moderate. The path is generally well maintained and gains steadily rather than being steeply technical, making it suitable for hikers comfortable with a moderate climb. Cold Springs Campground (Chickasaw) sits only about 0.3 km from the trailhead, making overnight access convenient for multi-stop visits.
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Panther Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Panther Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Panther Falls, as the water flow is typically stronger during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer is ideal for wading or swimming.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Rocks around the falls can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution. Be mindful of water levels, especially after heavy rains, as currents may be stronger.
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 (2 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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 24 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 960 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 29 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 33 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing west, 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
- 960 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 24 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Panther Falls is located within the Chickasaw National Recreation Area near Sulphur, Oklahoma. Visitors can access the falls by following signs within the park. The falls are a short distance from the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, with spaces typically sufficient for most visitors. However, it may fill up during peak seasons.
Elevation
958 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.502867° N, -96.965572° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during weekends or holidays to secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes as the area around the falls can be slippery. Bring water and sunscreen, especially during summer months.
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
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Nearby Campground
Cold Springs Campground (Chickasaw)
0.2 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 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 see fish in the creek.
Cities near Panther Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Panther Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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