Are there fees or permits required for Presbyterian Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Presbyterian Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Presbyterian Falls?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Presbyterian Falls.

Live Conditions · 356 ft³/s · Lower than usual

Presbyterian Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Presbyterian Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Presbyterian Falls.

Oklahoma

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Choctaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area TRIBL · DESG

Photo Credits (4)

Thomas & Dianne Jones from Okmulgee, OK, USA CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

FreeWine CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Presbyterian Falls

Presbyterian Falls tumbles along the Lower Mountain Fork River in southeastern Oklahoma as a lively series of cascading rapids rather than a single vertical drop — a setting that attracts paddlers, photographers and hikers who enjoy dynamic river scenery. The falls’ braided channels and exposed rock shelves create a mix of quiet pools and rushing water, making it an evocative spot for watching currents and for experienced kayakers to run when flows allow. Its character is more rapid than plunge, so views are best from stable riverbanks and rock ledges rather than a single overlook. The falls lie within the Choctaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area on land owned by DESG and managed by tribal authorities (designation: TRIB), so visitors should respect tribal land use and signage. The approach feels natural and undeveloped — a pleasant outdoor escape that rewards a short hike and careful footing along the river’s edge.

The Setting

Presbyterian Falls sits at 367 feet within Choctaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area, fed by the Mountain Fork, in the coastal lowlands of Oklahoma.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The access route to Presbyterian Falls is an out-and-back trail of roughly 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The tread is primarily dirt with uneven surfaces, including rocky, rooty and occasionally steep sections, so sturdy shoes and steady footing are recommended. The trail is suitable for most hikers comfortable with moderate climbs and natural trail conditions; it leads down to the riverbank and the cascading rapids, where views open up and paddlers often launch. Note that this approach is on tribal-managed land, so follow posted rules and stay on established paths.

What to Expect

Swimming is permitted. 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 Presbyterian Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Presbyterian Falls?

✅ Swimming is allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Presbyterian Falls, as the water levels are typically higher, enhancing the beauty of the rapids.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Be cautious of slippery rocks and strong currents near the falls. Always supervise children and pets. Water levels can change rapidly, so check conditions before visiting.

Current Water Conditions

Updated 39 minutes ago Moderate

356 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

254 392 1.6k 4.0k

Based on 56 years of record

1.43 ft

Water depth at gauge

73°F

Comfortable

Pleasant for swimming

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. The water is a comfortable 73 degrees F, pleasant for swimming.

About This Gauge

Mountain Fork near Eagletown, OK

USGS 07339000

1.9 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 800 sq mi

Altitude: 334 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge Mountain Fork near Eagletown, OK (3 km away).

High confidence

Moderate right now

382 cfs

↓ Falling

Today

Strong

413 cfs

8/10

Tomorrow

Strong

306 cfs

10/10

Sat

Moderate

259 cfs

9/10

Sun

Moderate

305 cfs

9/10

Mon

Moderate

288 cfs

9/10

Tue

Moderate

331 cfs

9/10

Wed

Moderate

343 cfs

9/10

Best window: Tomorrow — strong flow, partly sunny (trip score 10/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to early April, peaking in March.

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 Eagletown hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Presbyterian Falls is located near Broken Bow, Oklahoma, within the Lower Mountain Fork River area. It can be accessed via local roads, and the closest major town is Broken Bow. Visitors typically park near the river and walk a short distance to the falls.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available near the river, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors should plan accordingly.

Elevation

367 feet above sea level

Coordinates

34.069555° N, -94.624103° W

Land Management

Choctaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area TRIBL

Managed by TRIB

Visitor Tips & Gear

Visit during the spring or early summer for the best water flow. Bring water shoes if you plan to explore the riverbank. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the water.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 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.