THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
City Park / Nature Preserve · OK

Turkey Mountain Preserve

Turkey Mountain Preserve is a 300+ acre urban wilderness area just outside downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma, offering rugged trails, scenic overlooks, and a rich mix of wildlife within a unique sandstone ridge environment.

City Park / Nature Preserve300+4+ Trails

Designation

City Park / Nature Preserve

Total Wilderness Area

300+

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Turkey Mountain Preserve

Turkey Mountain Preserve is a 300+ acre urban wilderness area just outside downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma, offering rugged trails, scenic overlooks, and a rich mix of wildlife within a unique sandstone ridge environment.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Turkey Mountain Preserve covers approximately 300 acres on the western edge of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and is one of the largest urban wilderness preserves in the region. The preserve features steep sandstone ridges, dense woodlands, and diverse plant communities characteristic of the Cross Timbers ecoregion. The landscape showcases rugged terrain with exposed sandstone ledges, offering visitors scenic views and a variety of outdoor recreation options. Established in the late 1990s, this area has become a popular destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners seeking technical and enjoyable trail experiences close to an urban center. The preserve includes over 20 miles of trails of varying difficulty, providing opportunities to explore both dense forests and open ridges. Wildlife commonly seen includes white-tailed deer, various species of songbirds, and occasional bobcat sightings. Several overlooks provide panoramic views of the Arkansas River and Tulsa cityscape, especially at sunset. Turkey Mountain also features a mountain bike skills course and a number of singletrack trails designed for different skill levels. The preserve draws outdoor enthusiasts year-round and hosts various community events promoting conservation and outdoor recreation. Its proximity to Tulsa makes it a vital green space for local residents and visitors seeking adventure close to the city.

Field Guide · City Park / Nature Preserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Turkey Mountain Preserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Charming Drumright: A Hidden Gem in Oklahoma★ 2.3⌖ 35 miExploring History
Drumright

Charming Drumright: A Hidden Gem in Oklahoma

Explore Drumright, OK, known for its historical significance during the oil boom. Enjoy fishing at Cushing Lake or hiking in Keystone State Park. A family-friendly spot for a peaceful retreat with local culture and history.

Exploring HistoryView Details→
The Majestic Arkansas River★ 7.8⌖ 71 miWhite-water Rafting
Arkansas River

The Majestic Arkansas River

The Arkansas River offers thrilling white-water rafting and kayaking adventures along its 1,450-mile stretch. Suitable for adrenaline seekers, enjoy stunning canyon views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Ideal in spring for water sports, though summer crowds may be present.

White-water RaftingView Details→
Natural Falls: Oasis in Oklahoma★ 7.8⌖ 74 miHiking
Natural Falls State Park

Natural Falls: Oasis in Oklahoma

Explore the scenic landscapes of Natural Falls State Park featuring a stunning 77-foot waterfall. Located near Colcord, OK, the park offers easy hiking trails, wildlife watching, and picnic areas. Perfect for a family-friendly day trip, best enjoyed in spring or fall.

Discover Elk City State Park★ 6.8⌖ 81 miHiking
Elk City State Park

Discover Elk City State Park

Explore Elk City State Park's scenic trails and tranquil Elk Lake near Independence, KS. Ideal for hiking, fishing, and bird watching. Experience diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes in this peaceful escape.

Nature's Oasis at Martin Park★ 6.5⌖ 96 miHiking
Martin Park Nature Center

Nature's Oasis at Martin Park

Explore Martin Park Nature Center's 3-mile trail system in Oklahoma City. Perfect for easy hiking and wildlife observation. Open year-round with the best visits in spring and fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Turkey Mountain Overlook with panoramic views of Tulsa and the Arkansas River✦ Cross Timbers ecosystem featuring native oak-hickory forests and unique sandstone formations✦ Extensive multi-use trail system favored by mountain bikers and hikers✦ Mountain bike skills course and pump track catering to skill development
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Turkey Mountain Preserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Turkey Mountain Preserve
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Turkey Mountain Preserve
Park Recreation

Trail Running

Available in Turkey Mountain Preserve
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Turkey Mountain Preserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Turkey Mountain Preserve
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Turkey Mountain Preserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Turkey Mountain Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, no permits required; parking available in multiple lots.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Turkey Mountain Preserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Jenks
⌖ 5.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jenks, Oklahoma

A charming small town along the Arkansas River offering accessible water-based recreation and relaxed outdoor experiences with rich cultural highlights nearby.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Sand Springs
⌖ 6.86 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sand Springs, Oklahoma

A friendly town offering peaceful outdoor escapes with access to river paddling, hiking trails, and nearby nature preserves that appeal to casual adventurers and families alike.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Broken Arrow
⌖ 11.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

A family-friendly town blending urban parks and natural spaces with easy access to outdoor recreation in the Tulsa metropolitan area.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Bixby
⌖ 12.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bixby, Oklahoma

A family-friendly suburban town offering easy access to nature trails, waterways, and parks, perfect for casual outdoor activities near Tulsa.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Owasso
⌖ 13.86 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Owasso, Oklahoma

A growing suburban town blending easy access to Tulsa's outdoors with local parks and trails suited for family-friendly and beginner outdoor activities.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Skiatook
⌖ 18.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Skiatook, Oklahoma

A lakeside town offering calm waters and natural beauty, ideal for fishing, paddling, and outdoor relaxation with nearby trails and forested areas.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Turkey Mountain Preserve

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.