Travelin' Arklahoma: Greenleaf State Park is a beautiful and historic retreat in Oklahoma’s Ozark foothills

BRAGGS, OK – Located in eastern Oklahoma, Greenleaf State Park in Braggs is a popular destination known for its natural beauty and historical significance. One of Oklahoma’s original seven state parks, it offers a range of recreational activities around the 930-acre Greenleaf Lake, set amidst the oak and hickory forests of the Ozark foothills.

Greenleaf State Park was established in the 1930s through the efforts of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and German prisoners-of-war from Camp Gruber during World War II.

The 1939 construction of Greenleaf Lake initially served as a water supply for the military camp. The park’s 14 cabins, built with native stone, reflect WPA craftsmanship and remain in use today.

In 1994, the park added the “Cabin on the Lake,” a fully accessible cabin for physically disabled visitors, donated by the Telephone Pioneers of America.

According to the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department’s website (www.travelok.com), these facilities highlight the park’s historical and inclusive legacy.

Situated 10 miles north of US 64 on State Highway 10, the 565-acre park features Greenleaf Lake, with a 14-mile shoreline ideal for fishing, boating, and swimming.

The lake supports largemouth bass, channel catfish, and crappie, and a kids’ fishing pond is available for children 16 and under to fish free without a permit.

There is also an indoor heated fishing facility that can br used year-round for a nominal park use fee.

The park offers five camping areas with RV and tent sites, some with 50-amp service, plus restrooms, showers, and a laundry center. Family-friendly amenities include a splash pad, 18-hole miniature golf course, swim beach, and an 18-mile hiking trail extending into adjacent Camp Gruber land.

A naturalist leads programs like astronomy nights, campfire talks, and lake tours. The nature center provides hands-on exhibits, and seasonal events enhance the park’s appeal

The Greenleaf Diner, Marina, and Camp Store, operated by a concessionaire, serve as the heart of visitor services at Greenleaf State Park.

Located in a shallow valley next to the lake, the marina offers rentals for kayaks, paddle boats, fishing boats and pontoons making it easy for guests to explore the 930-acre Greenleaf Lake..

The camp store stocks essentials, snacks, and fishing and camping supplies, while the Greenleaf Diner provides a cozy spot for hearty meals, perfect for refueling after a day of outdoor activities. Bike rentals are also available at the store.

Open year-round, the park office operates from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Cabin check-in is at 4:00 p.m., with check-out at 11:00 a.m. The splash pad runs daily from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except Tuesdays for maintenance.

Since June 2020, an entrance fee of $10 per vehicle daily ($8 for Oklahoma residents) supports park upkeep, with waivers for veterans and residents 62 and older. Annual passes cost $75 ($60 for Oklahoma residents).

To maintain the lake’s calm environment, jet skis and wave runners are prohibited. Canoe, kayak, and pontoon rentals are available.

About an hour and a half from Fort Smith via US 64 and Highway 10, Greenleaf State Park is accessible for day trips or extended visits. Cabin rentals, starting around $8 per night, should be reserved early through www.travelok.com or okstateparks.reserveamerica.com.

Limited cell service encourages visitors to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors.

Greenleaf State Park remains a valued destination for fishing, hiking, or relaxing in historic cabins, offering a blend of history and recreation for all ages.

For more information or reservations, visit www.travelok.com or call (918) 487-5196.