It's rare these days now that Ashley is grown that we manage to pull off a family vacation together - plus Ashley's BFF Britt and her boyfriend, Mackenzie. But we finally managed to clear 8 busy schedules to take a trip to Broken Bow, Oklahoma together.
Why Broken Bow, Oklahoma? I can show you in one photo...
Browsing through VRBO, Jay and Jude found a cabin that had it's own private putting green.
Nope, I'm not pulling your leg.
They saw that private putting green and as far as they were concerned the matter was settled. We were going to Broken Bow, Oklahoma and staying at that cabin.
Chase and Mackenzie were totally on board with that. We gals just rolled our eyes and laughed.
We loved the rest of the cabin so it was hunky dory with us. Put the putters in their hands and let the boys be boys.
If you're looking for a beautiful nature spot with minimal crowds, add Broken Bow to your travel bucket list. Broken Bow, Oklahoma is a scenic city in southeastern Oklahoma known for outdoor recreation, cabin rentals, and natural beauty. In fact it has more log cabins and chalets per square mile than every outdoor destination in the U.S. including the Midwest, New England and the Pacific Northwest.
It's the perfect family destination, where you can go fishing, kayaking, and canoeing during the day, and curl up by the fire inside your log cabin rental at night.
Broken Bow is located in McCurtain County in southeastern Oklahoma, nestled in the Ouachita and Kiamichi Mountains. It lies about 12 miles north-northeast of Idabel and 16 miles west of the Arkansas border, making it accessible from major cities like Dallas, Shreveport, Tulsa, and Oklahoma City within a 2–4 hour drive.
It's renowned for its outdoor recreation.
Whether you’re staying at Beavers Bend State Park or renting a cabin, you can save significantly with military discounts, early/last-minute specials, and extended-stay perks. For the most up-to-date offers, visit TravelOK.com
Tips for Maximizing Savings
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Book early for the best rates and to secure military discounts.
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Check both state park lodging and private cabin rentals for overlapping offers.
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Combine discounts (e.g., military + extended stay) if allowed by the provider.
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Call directly for last-minute or extended-stay deals, as some require phone booking.
Cabin Rental Specials
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Broken Bow Lake Cabin Rentals:
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Early Bird: 10% off if booked 3 months in advance (excludes holidays).
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Last Minute: 10% off if booked within 30 days of arrival (excludes holidays).
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Year-Round: 8% off for 2+ night bookings.
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Extended Stay: 6+ nights = 1 weekday night free ($35).
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Wedding Anniversary: $40 off.
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Honeymoon: $35 off.
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Active Firefighters/Police: $35 off.
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Active Teachers/Coaches/Nurses: $35 off
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Beavers Bend Adventures:
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Mid-Week Special: Arrive Sunday or Monday, get 4th night free (excludes weekends/holiday weeks).
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Artsy Special: 15% off all wall art & sculptures when booking a cabin stay
The Bear Cabins:
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Military/First Responder Discount: 5% off with proof of ID.
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Returning Guest Special: 10% off next stay
WorthhePenny - Broken Bow Discount Codes & Coupon Codes - 50% Off
My advice to you in looking for accommodations is to look for a privately owned cabin and take the time to do some bargain hunting. There are so many of these (often luxury) cabins that competition between them is fierce. If you doubt me, go on YouTube and search "Tourism videos Broken Bow, Oklahoma". You'll find video after video after video of private cabin rentals.
I already explained to you how we found the cabin we stayed in. LOL But here it is.
4 Bedrooms, 3+ bathrooms, sleeps 12. We had 8 so 2 people per bedroom worked out perfectly.
8.5 miles from Broken Bow center, totally secluded.
Very secluded
Firepit area
Rec room on lower level
Very secluded
$704 per night for 8 adults or $4927 for 7 nights, all fees included. This was split 4 ways in that now that the kids are adults and working jobs, so they were expected to pay some of the rent which came to $1231.75 for 7 nights per couple. Actually, less than that after our discount but that will give you some idea of the rental price.
Suggestion: Look at Bravo Cabin Rentals. You can find some budget friendly nice cabins there for around $100 - $200 per night!
Cabins in Broken Bow features cabins for under $100 per night on the weekdays.
Hugo Airport is located approximately 45.36 miles / 73 kilometers West (W) of central Broken Bow. IATA airport code is HUJ.
Cox Field is located approximately 48.47 miles / 78 kilometers Southwest (SW) of central Broken Bow. IATA airport code is
PRX.
BROKEN BOW MUNICIPAL AIRPORT
This airport is located on the west side of Broken Bow, OK at 1239 Rodeo Rd. It has an elevation of 403.2 ft. It has an asphalt surface on the 3200 ft. lighted runway and a fixed base operator, along with being listed by the FAA Mapping Service. There are multiple hangars and an office.
Tie down space is available at no charge.
You will definitely need a car to get around the Broken Bow area.
We drove the BEAST with Jay's car in the rear end. The kids wanted to drive themselves so the 4 of them came in Mackenzie's car which worked out great. If the 4 of them wanted to go off on their own, they could.
Our cabin had onsite parking with plenty of room for 2 vehicles.
Note: There is a lot of confusion when it comes to attractions in Broken Bow and Hochatown. Check out this government website specifying Broken Bow city's limits 10 miles south of Hochatown.
The Broken Bow area includes three main regions:
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Broken Bow
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Hochatown
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Beavers Bend
Together they form one of Oklahoma’s most scenic outdoor playgrounds.
Get settled in your digs.
Our smarta** kids suggested our first stop be Broken Bow City Park as it has a senior citizen's center there. We flipped the tables on them and told them "That would be PERFECT! They have a playground and splash pad there for you kids!" (Don't mess with the old folks, we've been around the block too many times.)
Actually, do check out Broken Bow City Park as it's beautiful and is home to a large fishing pond, hiking trail, playground, pavilion, senior citizen's center, baseball field and splash pad.
Broken Bow City Park
It's the perfect place to have a picnic as there are tables and grills. Just watch out for the geese, they're all over the park!
Explore Downtown Shops & Cafés. Downtown is lined with small, independent shops, coffee houses, and sweet shops. You’ll find no big-box malls here, so you’ll discover unique local goods and cozy spots to relax.
Like most women, Ashley and Britt LOVE shopping. Those two were off and running through the downtown shops and we didn't even attempt to keep up with them.
I had to laugh when Chase said to Jude
"You raised a shopaholic!" to which Jude replied "Get used to it, son. Won't matter what woman you eventually marry, you'll be paying off her credit card shopping
bills for the rest of your life."
Yup, truth to that one, right gentlemen?
There are some pretty cool establishments in downtown Broken Bow though.
Whether you’re a hardcore hiker or simply love the outdoors aesthetic, you’ll find cozy gear, unique accessories, and nature-inspired gifts at Camp Diem.
Perfectly Imperfect Vintage Marketplace & Boutique is another 7800 sq, ft. store full of a variety of unique items that's fun to browse through.
Brick and Bread
I recommend having lunch downtown at Brick and Bread, Their Artisan sandwiches are to die for.
Locals rave about their sourdough and the perfectly layered croissants.
Step inside this artisan bakery, and you’ll be greeted by the scent of warm loaves, handcrafted pastries, and specialty sandwiches.
If you want to top off lunch with a gourmet treat to cool you off, stop at Sloppy Pops.
From fruity to creamy, classic to daring, every pop is crafted with care and a dash of local flair.
The Hidden Gem is a delightful discovery, offering an eclectic mix of antiques, vintage finds, and quirky collectibles. You never know what you’ll stumble upon—one-of-a-kind furniture, classic vinyl, retro gadgets
While downtown Broken Bow is vibrant year-round, autumn ushers in the much-anticipated Fall in Love with Downtown event. This annual festival transforms Main Street into a playground of competition, creativity, and community pride.
It sounds like a riot: Bed races, Twinkie eating contest, Local Talent Showcase and much more!
Another downtown event is Music On Main.
Every Friday night, the amphitheater hosts free concerts featuring local talent, up-and-coming bands, and a diverse mix of genres. Bring your lawn chair, a blanket, and your dancing shoes.
It's a community event so a good way to connect with some locals to get the 411 on the Broken Bow area!
And the music was really good too...
After a busy day on your feet, head for one of the locals' favorite downtown restaurants - Roma Italian Restaurant at 114 N Main Street.
Roma Sampler
1/2 Veggie & 1/2 Supreme Pizza
This beloved local restaurant serves up hearty pasta, classic pizzas, and decadent desserts in a cozy, family-friendly setting. Their signature lasagna and homemade tiramisu are legendary. (I can vouch for the lasagna being scrumptious!) The tiramisu was heavenly.
If you're not sure what to order, give their Sampler a try: Lasagna, manicotti and spinach ravioli, topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. $14.53
The kids ordered a 1/2 Veggie and 1/2 Supreme pizza they said was "mad good".
Prices are really reasonable too, with most entrees running between $15 and $20.
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If you're up for it either before or after dinner, stop by for a splash of fun at Girls Gone Wine.
Note: There is a lot of confusion when it comes to attractions in Broken Bow and Hochatown. Check out this government website specifying Broken Bow city's limits 10 miles south of Hochatown.
The Broken Bow area includes three main regions:
-
Broken Bow
-
Hochatown
-
Beavers Bend
Together they form one of Oklahoma’s most scenic outdoor playgrounds.
Get settled in your digs.
Our smarta** kids suggested our first stop be Broken Bow City Park as it has a senior citizen's center there. We flipped the tables on them and told them "That would be PERFECT! They have a playground and splash pad there for you kids!" (Don't mess with the old folks, we've been around the block too many times.)
Actually, do check out Broken Bow City Park as it's beautiful and is home to a large fishing pond, hiking trail, playground, pavilion, senior citizen's center, baseball field and splash pad.
Broken Bow City Park
It's the perfect place to have a picnic as there are tables and grills. Just watch out for the geese, they're all over the park!
Explore Downtown Shops & Cafés. Downtown is lined with small, independent shops, coffee houses, and sweet shops. You’ll find no big-box malls here, so you’ll discover unique local goods and cozy spots to relax.
Like most women, Ashley and Britt LOVE shopping. Those two were off and running through the downtown shops and we didn't even attempt to keep up with them.
I had to laugh when Chase said to Jude
"You raised a shopaholic!" to which Jude replied "Get used to it, son. Won't matter what woman you eventually marry, you'll be paying off her credit card shopping
bills for the rest of your life."
Yup, truth to that one, right gentlemen?
There are some pretty cool establishments in downtown Broken Bow though.
Whether you’re a hardcore hiker or simply love the outdoors aesthetic, you’ll find cozy gear, unique accessories, and nature-inspired gifts at Camp Diem.
Perfectly Imperfect Vintage Marketplace & Boutique is another 7800 sq, ft. store full of a variety of unique items that's fun to browse through.
Brick and Bread
I recommend having lunch downtown at Brick and Bread, Their Artisan sandwiches are to die for.
Locals rave about their sourdough and the perfectly layered croissants.
Step inside this artisan bakery, and you’ll be greeted by the scent of warm loaves, handcrafted pastries, and specialty sandwiches.
If you want to top off lunch with a gourmet treat to cool you off, stop at Sloppy Pops.
From fruity to creamy, classic to daring, every pop is crafted with care and a dash of local flair.
The Hidden Gem is a delightful discovery, offering an eclectic mix of antiques, vintage finds, and quirky collectibles. You never know what you’ll stumble upon—one-of-a-kind furniture, classic vinyl, retro gadgets
While downtown Broken Bow is vibrant year-round, autumn ushers in the much-anticipated Fall in Love with Downtown event. This annual festival transforms Main Street into a playground of competition, creativity, and community pride.
It sounds like a riot: Bed races, Twinkie eating contest, Local Talent Showcase and much more!
Another downtown event is Music On Main.
Every Friday night, the amphitheater hosts free concerts featuring local talent, up-and-coming bands, and a diverse mix of genres. Bring your lawn chair, a blanket, and your dancing shoes.
It's a community event so a good way to connect with some locals to get the 411 on the Broken Bow area!
And the music was really good too...
After a busy day on your feet, head for one of the locals' favorite downtown restaurants - Roma Italian Restaurant at 114 N Main Street.
Roma Sampler
1/2 Veggie & 1/2 Supreme Pizza
This beloved local restaurant serves up hearty pasta, classic pizzas, and decadent desserts in a cozy, family-friendly setting. Their signature lasagna and homemade tiramisu are legendary. (I can vouch for the lasagna being scrumptious!) The tiramisu was heavenly.
If you're not sure what to order, give their Sampler a try: Lasagna, manicotti and spinach ravioli, topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. $14.53
The kids ordered a 1/2 Veggie and 1/2 Supreme pizza they said was "mad good".
Prices are really reasonable too, with most entrees running between $15 and $20.
If you're up for it either before or after dinner, stop by for a splash of fun at Girls Gone Wine.
This locally loved wine shop features a sampling Oklahoma-made reds and whites, playful décor, cheeky merchandise, and tasting room making it a favorite spot for girlfriend getaways or a whimsical date afternoon.
For parents: In Oklahoma, it is illegal for anyone over 21 to purchase or attempt to purchase alcohol for someone under 21. This includes furnishing alcohol to an 18-year-old, even if the minor is accompanied by a parent or guardian. Low-point beer exception: Under 21 can buy or consume beer/malt beverages ≤3.2% ABW only if under the direct supervision of a parent or guardian, and only for personal consumption.
The 4 'kids' with us aren't drinkers anyway so they went off to do their own thing while the 4 of us were wine tasting and we all met back at the cabin to have a fire in the firepit.
Morning: We made most of our own breakfasts at the cabin but I checked with locals for recommendations on good breakfast haunts for you in Broken Bow and Hocatown. (Hochatown seems like part of Broken Bow as it's right next door to Broken Bow.
Have breakfast at Hochatown Coffee Central. 9981 N US Hwy 259 Ste C, Broken Bow
Hochatown Coffee Central is the morning anchor of the strip. Specialty coffee, pastries, cinnamon rolls, and a friendly staff make it the easiest stop on the way out of your cabin for a hike. The caramel apple macchiato is its signature offering.
Mountain Fork River runs through Broken Bow, Oklahoma, and offers a mix of whitewater and a small waterfall.
The Mountain Fork River flows through the Ouachita Mountains and is a popular kayaking destination. From Mountain Fork Park, paddlers can float about 4 miles with a mix of Class I and II rapids depending on dam releases, along with flat water sections.
The river also passes near Presbyterian Falls, a small waterfall that’s a highlight for paddlers.
Below Beavers Bend State Park, the river widens and warms, with gentle current and scenic wooded bottomland. The park offers easy access, gear rentals, and a 2.5‑mile scenic float. The lower section is also a year‑round trout fishery and can be paddled from spring through fall.
The lower section is also a year-round trout fishery and can be paddled from spring through fall.
Key points for your trip:
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Whitewater: Class I–II rapids depending on water levels; check the Broken Bow Dam release schedule for best conditions www.paddleroundthepier.com.
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Waterfall: Presbyterian Falls along the lower river.
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Launch points: Mountain Fork Park, Beavers Bend State Park, and other public access points.
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Best time: Spring through fall for stable water levels and cooler temperatures (50–60°F year‑round)
At Mountain Fork Park, you can launch your own equipment onto the scenic Mountain Fork River for a fun day filled with adventure. Floating Mountain Fork is fun for the whole family! You are free to make any stops along the way to enjoy all that nature has to offer on your 3.38 mile float.
Launch your equipment from the landing at Mountain Fork Park for $5 per person. Your float will end at the public landing located at the Highway 70 bridge. You must provide your own transportation to and from the landings.
If you want a half‑day adventure with both whitewater and a waterfall, the Mountain Fork River from Mountain Fork Park to Presbyterian Falls is the perfect choice. This is the paddle we took and it's the section most of the guide outfitters run. It's about 4 miles long and takes about 2.5 hours to paddle depending on the water levels.
Whitewater class II and I with nice sections of flat water.
Always check the most current information on the water release schedule below before launching your float.
There are dams on the river that affect water levels!
Another note: You want to wear water shoes for these adventures. If you forget yours or don't have any the Broken Bow Walmart carries them.
There are multiple outfitters from which to rent gear but we highly recommend Yippie Kayo Kayaks.
5900 E Hwy 70, Broken Bow Open 7 days a week from 8:30 am to 4 pm.
Afternoon: Because it was so recommended to us by locals, we drove 15 minutes to nearby Idabel to have lunch at the Red B Restaurant. 10 N Central Ave Idabel, OK
Voted #2 best in Oklahoma by USA Today, is their chicken fried steak sandwich - on Jalapeño Toast with Jalapeño Ranch & Pepper Jack Cheese
I personally loved their Rotel fries
that they normally sell out of
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What Red B serves up was worth every second of that 15 minute drive and then some! We loved their food so much we went back for dinner!
In the meantime, we explored Idabel.
812 E Lincoln Rd, Idabel, OK
Acrocanthosaurus atokensis
I can best describe the Museum of the Red River as a mix of Native American history/artifacts and area dinosaurs.
There's also a play area for kids.
When we arrived the museum staff gave us a quick overview of the museum.
Open Regularly Scheduled Hours Tues-Sat 10am-5pm Sun 10am-3pm
Museum admission is FREE.
The Museum is located at 812 E. Lincoln Rd, on the South Highway 70/259 Bypass.
We nosed around downtown, checking out the shops. Now, this is a little Oklahoma town. The kind of 'if you grow up there small town you can't wait to get out of it' small town. So I don't know if its residents are just bored or(???) but I counted 12 cannabis shops. As of 2026, Idabel, Oklahoma has a population of 6,934. I can't help but wonder how a town with a population of 6,934 people keep 12 cannabis stores in business? LOL Interesting what you find in some of these small towns.
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The old Frisco Railway Station sits in Idabel at 7 SW Texas Street, Idabel.
Grisco Station, is a train station that was built in 1912 by the St. Louis–San Francisco Railway in Idabel, Oklahoma. It replaced an earlier frame structure that had been constructed in 1902. It was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1979.[1] Today it is the headquarters of the Idabel Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture.
At the time the NRHP application was submitted, the station was still owned by the Frisco Railroad, which was using the
building as a freight office with a one-man staff. However, the company was already planning to close the office, in which case it would demolish the structure to eliminate future maintenance costs.
The McCurtain County Historical Society argued the building was the center of commercial and social activity for Idabel for 40 years, being the host of four passenger trains daily and also of freight trains, while there were no other common carriers serving Idabel. "Idabel" itself is named for Ida and Belle Purnell, daughters of a railway official.
And now you know how the town got its name, Idabel.
The interior now serves as a community and business hub, hosting meetings, events, and administrative functions for the chamber.
Evening: We returned to the Red B for dinner. We didn't think dinner could be any better than lunch had been but Red B proved us wrong.
We all ordered something different so we could sample each other's entrees. Everything was superb, especially the Firday night catfish dinner special. They prepare (clean and cut) the catfish themselves so all you get is the white meat. Red B gets 8 thumbs up from us!
We returned to our cabin for the evening and just kicked back and relaxed.