Osage Hills State Park offers cabins, RV hookups, tent camping, and 8 miles of trails — all within a short drive of Pawhuska and Bartlesville. Here's everything you need to know.
Osage Hills State Park is one of Oklahoma's most underrated outdoor destinations. Tucked between Pawhuska and Bartlesville, it offers 1,100 acres of hills, creeks, and oak forests — plus a variety of camping options for any style of traveler. Here's your complete guide.
The Park in Brief
- Size: 1,100 acres - Location: About 12 miles west of Bartlesville, 20 miles east of Pawhuska - Fees: Day-use is free. Camping fees vary by site type. - Trails: 8 miles of hiking - Best for: Weekend camping, day hiking, family trips
Where to Stay
Cabins The park has several cabins ranging from rustic to modern. Most sleep 4-6 people and have kitchens, bathrooms, and heating/air. Book well in advance — they fill up months ahead, especially for weekends and holidays.
RV Camping Multiple RV sites with electric and water hookups. A few sites also have sewer. These are first-come, first-served during the week but reservations are recommended for weekends.
Tent Camping Several tent sites scattered through the wooded areas. Most have picnic tables and fire rings. Restrooms and showers are available at the camp bathhouse.
Group Camp For scout troops, family reunions, and large groups, there's a group camping area with shelters and communal facilities.
The Trails
The park has 8 miles of trails, all well-marked.
Lookout Trail — 1.5 miles, moderate. The must-do hike. Takes you to a scenic overlook with a panoramic view of the hills.
Creek Trail — Easy, flat, follows the creek. Good for families and casual walkers.
Old Timer's Trail — Longer and more challenging, with some elevation changes and rocky sections.
All trails are day-hike length. You can easily explore the whole park in a weekend.
What to Bring
- Tent and sleeping gear (if tent camping) - Camp stove and food (the park has picnic areas but no on-site store) - Water — there's potable water in the park, but bring extra for hikes - Firewood (buy locally to avoid spreading invasive species) - Insect repellent (especially spring and summer) - Sturdy shoes for hiking - Layers — mornings and evenings can be cool even in summer
Wildlife
The park is home to white-tailed deer, raccoons, armadillos, and a surprising variety of birds. Keep food stored properly. There are no bears.
Best Time to Go
Spring (March-May): Mild, green, wildflowers. Best overall.
Fall (September-November): Cool, beautiful foliage, fewer bugs. A close second.
Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, but the creek makes it tolerable and the trees provide shade.
Winter (December-February): Cold, quiet, beautiful in its own way. Cabins are heated and cozy.
Combine with Other Destinations
Osage Hills is a great base for exploring the eastern part of Osage County. From here you can day-trip to:
- Woolaroc Museum (15 minutes) - Bartlesville (20 minutes) — The Price Tower, Frank Phillips Home - Pawhuska (30 minutes) — The Mercantile, Osage Nation Museum - The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve (50 minutes)
A weekend here can easily turn into a full Osage County adventure.
Booking
Reserve cabins through the Oklahoma State Parks website. Camping can be walk-up for weekdays but reserve ahead for weekends. For lodging alternatives, browse our where to stay page.
