Black Mesa State Park & Nature Preserve

Hike to Oklahoma's highest point.

Black Mesa State Park & Nature Preserve is located in northwestern Oklahoma, bordering Colorado and New Mexico. The name of this park comes from the black lava rock that once covered the area millions of years ago. This is a bird enthusiast paradise where people have often spotted golden eagles, pinyon jays, scaled quails, and more. Other wildlife inhabiting the area are black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and antelope. 

The highest point in the state is 4,973 feet above sea level. From the parking lot, expect the hike to the top of the mesa to take at least 4 hours round-trip. Black Mesa State Park boasts some of the darkest night skies in the country, so it is an ideal place to take astrophotography or go stargazing. Every August, the Perseid meteor shower is visible from the park. If you want to stay for multiple days, the state park offers tent and RV campsites that you can reserve online. This secluded state park offers incredible sights away from it all. Explore the wild side of Oklahoma with your friends and family.