Entry 61: Exploring Sequoyah State Park: Nature, History, and Hospitality in Oklahoma

Early in February, I had the chance to meander over into Oklahoma to co-present at the Southwest Parks and Recreation Training Institute. For the last several years, the institute has been hosted by Sequoyah State Park, a scenic and relaxing spot located along the shores of Fort Gibson Lake near the town of Wagoner. As a bonus, it's a park rich in natural beauty and cultural significance.

The park is named in honor of Sequoyah, the famous Cherokee polymath who, in the early 19th century, invented the Cherokee syllabary—a written system that enabled widespread literacy among the Cherokee people. This singular contribution made Sequoyah one of the most important Native American figures in U.S. history, and his legacy lives on through the people and places connected to his name—including this stunning state park.

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What Can You Do at Sequoyah State Park?

Stay the Night
Whether you prefer rustic or refined, you’ve got options. The park features cabins, cottages, a lodge, and campsites—some with lake views and full hookups.

Play a Round of Golf
The Sequoyah State Park Golf Course (18 holes) delivers beautiful views of the lake and Oklahoma’s woodlands, creating a peaceful but challenging course for all skill levels.

Hit the Trails or Saddle Up
Multiple hiking and equestrian trails allow you to explore the landscape, forests, and shoreline. It’s a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the park.

Cast a Line
Fort Gibson Lake is a regional fishing hotspot. Anglers can reel in bass, crappie, catfish, and even paddlefish. The lake is also great for boating, water skiing, and sailing.

Learn at the Nature Center
The Three Forks Nature Center offers interpretive programs, guided hikes, and wildlife education. Learn about the area’s diverse habitats, flora, and fauna—and the cultural heritage of the region.

Pack a Picnic
Sheltered picnic areas with grills make for a perfect afternoon outing with family or friends.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Sequoyah State Park is more than a recreation destination—it's a tribute to the resilience and innovation of the Cherokee people. Sequoyah himself, born around 1770 in what is now Tennessee, moved to Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma) during the Trail of Tears. His syllabary gave the Cherokee Nation one of the first written languages among Native American tribes, fostering community identity, recordkeeping, and education.

The park’s name, therefore, honors more than a man—it honors a movement toward sovereignty, knowledge, and cultural endurance. Visitors are reminded that these lands were once part of Cherokee Nation territory, and nearby communities continue to preserve this deep history.

Places to Visit Nearby

Wagoner – The closest town to the park, filled with historic buildings, small shops, and the Wagoner City Historical Museum.

Tahlequah – The modern-day capital of the Cherokee Nation, home to the Cherokee Heritage Center and the Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum.

Muskogee – Visit the Five Civilized Tribes Museum or walk through the floral displays at Honor Heights Park, especially during spring's Azalea Festival.

Fort Gibson – Explore the Fort Gibson Historic Site, a preserved 19th-century military outpost central to U.S. expansion and Indian Territory settlement.

Tulsa – A vibrant city an hour and a half away. Stop by the Philbrook Museum, Gilcrease Museum, or the Tulsa Botanic Garden.

Family-Friendly Places to Eat Nearby

Boom-a-rang Diner (Wagoner) – A classic Oklahoma diner with burgers, shakes, and all-day breakfast.
Blue Whale Grill (Wagoner) – Fresh takes on American classics with vegetarian options.
El Palenque Mexican Restaurant (Wagoner) – Solid Tex-Mex with big portions and family-friendly pricing.
My Place BBQ (Muskogee) – A local favorite for smoked meats and laid-back vibes.

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Entry 126: A Rainy Night, Birds at Dawn, and the Cozy Joy of Glamping at Ozark RV Park

If you’ve been thinking about trying glamping or need a peaceful base to explore Mountain View, Arkansas, let me share a place you’ll want to add to your list: Ozark RV Park and Cabins. Ozark RV Park & Cabins Call: 870-200-9090 The Glamping Tent I recently stayed in one of their glamping tents, and it was such a fun, comfortable experience. The tent is spacious, set up on a platform with a real bed (on a frame), crisp linens, a fan, air conditioning (yes, you get AC in a tent!), and a Keurig for that first warm cup of coffee in the morning. During my stay, it rained gently, and there is something incredible about falling asleep to the sound of rain on canvas while staying warm and cozy in bed. In the morning, I woke up to the sound of birds and crisp air, peeking outside to a misty, peaceful campground that felt like a breath of fresh air. The Big Park Sign & Rooster The bathhouse on-site deserves a shout-out. It has the nostalgic feel of a summer camp bathhouse but is immacul...

Entry 85: A Quirky Stop in Austin, MN: Exploring the Spam Museum and More

If you’re into quirky attractions and unexpected fun, the Spam Museum in Austin, Minnesota is a must-see. Located at 101 3rd Ave NE , this one-of-a-kind destination has been drawing curious travelers and Spam fans since it opened in 1991. After a major expansion and relocation in 2016, the museum now offers an even more immersive and entertaining experience. A Taste of History Spam was first introduced in 1937 by Hormel Foods , and the museum walks you through how this humble canned meat became a global sensation. It played a major role during World War II , feeding troops across the globe and becoming a beloved staple in households everywhere. Inside the museum, you’ll find a blend of history, pop culture, and international flair . Learn how Spam became a hit in countries like South Korea, the Philippines, and Hawaii. You'll also get a glimpse of the role Spam played in post-war culture and its place in today’s culinary world. Interactive Exhibits and More The Spam Museum is...

Entry 131: From Bonsai to Blooms: A Walk Through Portland’s Gardens

A Stroll Through the Portland Japanese Garden On a quiet morning in downtown Portland, a buddy and I decided to walk from our hotel to the Portland Japanese Garden. The route wound through the city and into Washington Park, and while it was uphill in spots, it was not bad at all. By the time we reached the entrance, we felt like we had already eased into the slower pace the garden promises. Even before I took ten steps inside, the city noise seemed to fade. The air felt cooler and fresher, like the garden had its own climate set apart from the bustle just outside its walls. The path curved gently ahead, leading us past moss-covered stones and neatly raked gravel beds. A small stream gurgled quietly under a wooden footbridge, the sound blending with the soft rustle of leaves overhead. Every turn revealed a new scene, a carefully placed lantern, a cluster of maple trees, or a pond where koi fish drifted lazily through the water. We followed the path uphill to a wide view of the city. Th...

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