Webbers Falls (historical)
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Webbers Falls (historical)
Webbers Falls is a historical river site on the Arkansas River in southeastern Muskogee County, Oklahoma, and gives its name to the small town of Webbers Falls (population 338 at the 2020 census). The place takes its name from a once-prominent seven-foot waterfall that marked a trading and meeting place established by Cherokee leader Walter Webber, who opened a trading post here in 1818 and was a leader among the Western Cherokee (“Old Settlers”). That modest cascade was inundated when the Webbers Falls Lock and Dam was built in the mid-20th century, so the original falls are no longer visible today. The site lies within the Cherokee Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area (land unit designation TRIBL) and is noted as being managed by tribal authorities (manager code: TRIB), with land ownership recorded as DESG. Visitors are drawn more for riverside strolls, local history and the town’s riverfront setting than for a classic waterfall hike; interpretive signs and historic points of interest in town help tell the story of Walter Webber and the community that grew up around the river.
The Setting
Webbers Falls (historical) sits at 459 feet within Cherokee Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area, fed by the Illinois River, 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
There is no official USFS trail to the original falls, which now sit underwater behind the Webbers Falls Lock and Dam. Instead, most visitors use a local out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain; the route is commonly rated moderate in difficulty. Surface, grade and USFS trail classification data are not available for a formal trail corridor here, so expect a mix of town streets and informal riverbank paths rather than a designated forest trail.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect to learn about the historical significance of Webbers Falls and enjoy views of the Arkansas River. The original waterfall is no longer present, but the area offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and exploring the local history.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Webbers Falls (historical)?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Webbers Falls (historical)?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal times to visit due to mild weather, but the area is accessible year-round.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Be cautious near the river, as currents can be strong. Seasonal flooding may occur, so check conditions before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
4,460 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 72 years of record
11.66 ft
Water depth at gauge
66°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 66 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect low dissolved oxygen levels.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
PoorLow oxygen — stressed ecosystem
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 Illinois River near Gore, OK (13 km away).
Today
Roaring
5084 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
4563 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
4739 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
3996 cfs
9/10Sun
Strong
3699 cfs
10/10Mon
Strong
3626 cfs
10/10Tue
Strong
3662 cfs
10/10Best window: Sun — strong flow, sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late May, 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 Carlisle hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Webbers Falls is located near the town of Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, along the Arkansas River. The site can be accessed via Interstate 40, with nearby exits leading to the town.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available in the town of Webbers Falls or near the river access points. Specific parking areas for the historical site may be limited.
Elevation
459 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.460833° N, -95.054444° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a camera to capture the scenic views of the Arkansas River. Check local weather conditions before visiting, as the area may be affected by seasonal flooding.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
Where to Stay
Suite 16 Motel
Motel 6-Sallisaw, OK
Sunnyside Lakefront with Private Dock at The Cut
Bixby Cove Cabin #2
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
Brewers Bend
10.9 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of Arkansas River - Webbers Falls Pool
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Webbers Falls Historical Museum and Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge.
Wildlife
The area around the Arkansas River is home to various bird species, fish, and other wildlife. Visitors may spot eagles, herons, and other waterfowl.
Cities near Webbers Falls (historical)
Writing about Webbers Falls (historical)? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.