THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Wildlife Preserve · OK

Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve is a unique combination of wildlife sanctuary, museum, and historic ranch in northeastern Oklahoma, offering visitors an immersive experience with native animals, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage.

Wildlife Preserve37004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Preserve

Total Wilderness Area

3700

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve is a unique combination of wildlife sanctuary, museum, and historic ranch in northeastern Oklahoma, offering visitors an immersive experience with native animals, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve, located approximately 12 miles southwest of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, encompasses 3,700 acres of diverse terrain including rolling hills, tallgrass prairie, woodlands, and reservoirs. Established in 1925 as a private retreat and museum by oilman Frank Phillips, Woolaroc combines natural habitats with a significant collection of Western art and artifacts. The preserve serves as a sanctuary for native and exotic wildlife such as bison, elk, longhorn cattle, mountain lions, and various bird species, emphasizing conservation and education. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the property by hiking multiple trails, take scenic drives through the ranch roadways, and visit the Woolaroc Museum, which showcases Native American artifacts, firearms, and paintings by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell. Recreational activities include guided wildlife viewing, photography, and camping in designated areas. The preserve’s varied landscapes provide excellent habitat for wildlife and offer visitors a chance to experience the history and natural beauty of northeastern Oklahoma. With its combination of cultural heritage and outdoor recreation, Woolaroc appeals to history enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike.

Field Guide · Wildlife Preserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

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

Discover Elk City State Park★ 6.8⌖ 38 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.

The Majestic Arkansas River★ 7.8⌖ 60 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→
Charming Drumright: A Hidden Gem in Oklahoma★ 2.3⌖ 62 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→
Natural Falls: Oasis in Oklahoma★ 7.8⌖ 83 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.

Cast Your Line: Fishing Adventures at Lake Avalon★ 6.5⌖ 96 miFishing
105-89 Lancaster Dr

Cast Your Line: Fishing Adventures at Lake Avalon

Experience fishing at Lake Avalon in Bella Vista, Arkansas. With year-round access and a family-friendly environment, enjoy targeting largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. Ideal for anglers looking for a peaceful retreat on the lake.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Woolaroc Museum and Art Collection featuring Western and Native American artifacts✦ Native wildlife exhibits including bison, elk, longhorn cattle, and mountain lions✦ Scenic hiking trails through prairie, woodland, and creek habitats✦ Historic Frank Phillips’ ranch house and preserved oilman’s retreat
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Woolaroc Wildlife 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 Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Admission fee required for museum access; outdoor areas open during daylight hours with free access.

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).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Woolaroc Campground

Located near the museum and wildlife viewing areas, featuring tent and RV sites with basic amenities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Woolaroc Wildlife Preserve

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

Bartlesville
⌖ 2.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bartlesville, Oklahoma

A charming town offering gentle outdoor experiences amid rolling hills, rivers, and parks with historic and natural appeal.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Copan
⌖ 12.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Copan, Oklahoma

A small town gateway to calm lake adventures, scenic trails, and peaceful rural landscapes in northeastern Oklahoma.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Ramona
⌖ 14.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ramona, Oklahoma

A quiet rural town offering access to Oklahoma's rolling prairies and nearby lakes, ideal for low-key outdoor exploration and water-based adventures.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Barnsdall
⌖ 15.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Barnsdall, Oklahoma

A small Oklahoma town offering peaceful outdoor escapes with access to hiking, fishing, and paddling in the nearby Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Nowata
⌖ 19.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nowata, Oklahoma

A quiet small town offering peaceful access to rolling prairies, nearby lakes, and gentle waterways ideal for relaxed outdoor activities and fishing escapes.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Pawhuska
⌖ 20.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pawhuska, Oklahoma

A small-town gateway to scenic woodland and river adventures, combining Native American culture with quiet outdoor exploration in northeastern Oklahoma.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Woolaroc Wildlife 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.