Things to Do in Broken Bow
From mountain trails and kayaking adventures to live entertainment and gourmet dining — Broken Bow offers year-round activities for families, thrill-seekers, and those seeking relaxation.
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Explore, Adventure, Relax
Whether you’re looking for outdoor thrills, family-friendly entertainment, or peaceful moments in nature, Broken Bow has something for everyone. Here are our curated picks for the best things to do during your stay.
Outdoor Adventures
Hit the Trails at Beavers Bend
Friends Trail is the most popular in the area — moderate difficulty with stunning views of the Lower Mountain Fork River. If you want something flatter and easier, Beaver Creek Trail is marked with red blazes and winds through shaded forest with almost no elevation gain.
Tip: Go early on weekends. Friends Trail gets crowded by 10am in peak season.
Yippie Kayo Kayaks
Float the crystal-clear Mountain Fork River on a 3-mile trip through the “Rock Gardens,” past Presbyterian Falls, and into Cooper Creek. The shuttle drops you at the start — just paddle and enjoy. Trips run 3–4 hours. Age 8+ required; kids 4 ft+ may go with a parent.
Tip: Pet-friendly with a 20 lb weight limit. Bring snacks.
Stevens Gap & Broken Bow Lake
Our top pick for swimming is Stevens Gap — a scenic swim beach with picnic tables, a boat ramp, and nearby hiking trails. The water can be deep, so watch children closely. Other options include the Beavers Bend Land & Water Park and Broken Bow Lake itself.
Tip: Stevens Gap is inside Beavers Bend State Park — a day pass is required.
For the Thrill Seekers
Rugaru Adventures
Six zip lines, a half mile total, and speeds up to 35 mph — ending with a breathtaking ride over Broken Bow Lake. The two-hour tour is guided by certified staff and runs rain or shine. Reservations strongly recommended. Weight limit: 70–250 lbs. Must arrive with valid ID.
$89/person · Book online to hold your time slot.
Riverman Trail Rides
The most scenic horseback experience in the area. Riverman takes you along the River Valley with views of the winding Glover River through the Ouachita Mountains. Choose from 1–3 hour rides for all skill levels. Couples: ask about the Sweetheart Ride — a bluff overlook with wine, cheese, and a campfire after your ride.
Reservations required. Call (405) 833-6671.
Family Fun
Beavers Bend Depot & Trail Rides
A family favorite inside Beavers Bend State Park. Ride a 1/3-scale replica of the historic C.P. Huntington steam train through the park’s game reserve — you might spot deer, fox, and squirrel on the 15-minute loop. Guided horseback trail rides depart every hour and cover 2.5 miles of scenic forested paths. Great for first-time riders and young kids.
Train: $10–12/person · Horseback: $50+/person · Call ahead for summer hours.
Beavers Bend Mining Company
Kids go absolutely wild here. Purchase a pre-seeded bag and sluice for real gemstones — emeralds, garnets, amethyst, rose quartz — then learn what each one is. Also on site: an 18-hole pirate-themed mini golf course at Shipwreck Cove, a T-Rex ride, fossil dig, and wax hand dipping. You can easily make a full day of it.
Mining bags from $10.99. Located in Hochatown.
Sasquatch’s Candy Den
Over 750 types of candy under one Bigfoot-themed roof — gummies, chocolates, freeze-dried treats, truffles, and Blue Bell ice cream. Located in The Yard Under the Pines on Sugarberry Trail in Hochatown. A must-stop with kids (or without — we won’t judge). The wrap-around porch and outdoor seating make it easy to linger.
91 Sugarberry Trail, Hochatown · (580) 494-3002
Hester’s Theatre of Magic
The #1 rated attraction in Hochatown on TripAdvisor — and it genuinely earns it. Magician Chris Hester delivers an hour of illusions, comedy, and audience interaction in an intimate 60-seat theater. Great for all ages. Shows sell out on weekends, so book tickets in advance. Indoor venue, so weather is never an issue.
VIP $34.95 · General $29.95 · Kids $24.95 · Weekends + select dates · 8825 N Hwy 259
Beavers Bend Safari Park
A 90-acre drive-thru safari with 30+ species — bison, zebra, ostrich, rhino, kangaroos, lemurs, kudu, elk, and more. The 1.8-mile road winds through natural terrain with trees and streams. Upgrade to the Ultimate Safari Adventure for a guided close-up experience with Ronnie the rhino and the kangaroo yard. One of those surprises that guests always thank us for mentioning.
Open year-round · 589 Old Hochatown Rd · (580) 494-3222
Eat & Shop
Pressa Italia
The best sit-down dinner in Hochatown, and it’s not particularly close. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, and 70+ bottle wine list — all in a relaxed Italian countryside-inspired space. The artisan market at Pressa also carries imported cheeses, charcuterie, and specialty ingredients if you want to cook at the cabin. Owned and operated by Scott and Natalie Cross.
Reservations strongly recommended on weekends · 6427 N US-259 · (539) 399-5445
The Market at Local 259
The best stop for stocking your cabin before you settle in. Gourmet groceries, fresh produce, artisan meats and cheeses, ready-to-eat meals, beer, and cabin essentials — plus a coffee shop inside and a gift shop with local goods. Way better than driving into Broken Bow for supplies. Open daily starting at 8am.
42 Lucian Sorrel Rd, Hochatown · (580) 494-6758 · Open 8am daily
Pickleball
Pickle Bow at Cedar Hills
The most dedicated pickleball experience in Hochatown — a covered court with overhead lighting, ceiling fans, and a sound system, designed for both casual games and competitive matches. Access available to guests staying at Cedar Hills cabin properties. Check availability before your trip.
Covered court · Night play available · Climate-controlled restrooms on site.
Courts Across Hochatown
Pickleball has taken off in Broken Bow — many cabin properties now have their own private courts. If you want a game during your stay, let us know when you book and we can recommend properties that include court access. Several venues around Hochatown also offer drop-in play for visitors.
Ask us about cabin properties with private pickleball courts.
Ready to book your stay?
Browse our cabins in Broken Bow and we’ll make sure you’re set up for the perfect trip.