Parks to visit during spring
By Declan Bunch
Spring is approaching fast in Owasso. Each morning, the town wakes up to warmer temperatures and sunnier days. The color is returning to plant life and quickly becoming vivid greens, yellows, whites and purples. This time in Oklahoma is revered by locals as one of the most beautiful parts of the year (aside from the tornadoes, of course). Spring’s warm weather and blooming plants have motivated many to go outside and spend more time outdoors. This list compiles some great and unique local parks to visit in the Owasso and Tulsa area. Spring in Oklahoma is often very enjoyable, so here are some great places to spend this time and enjoy the carefully cultivated nature that these towns have to offer.
1. Centennial Park - Owasso
Centennial Park is a sprawling green nestled about a mile away from the Owasso High School. The park offers around three miles of paved walking trails and an impressive pond. It features well maintained fields and trails, and it hosts a pavilion and bathrooms for larger events. One unique feature of Centennial Park is the expansive disc golf course. This park is a great place to meet with friends and enjoy the spring weather.
2. Collinsville Lake Trails - Collinsville
Picture of Collinsville Lake taken by Declan Bunch
While this park is a little less known, that doesn't mean that it lacks in any capacity. Only a ten-minute drive north of Owasso High School, the easily accessible park is heavily wooded. Collinsville Lake hosts some of the best mountain biking trails in the Tulsa area. The trails are carefully marked and carry recommendations for the skill level of bikers or hikers. Towards the back of the park, three staggered ponds offer great fishing spots. Follow the main trail, the “Grind,” and it will lead you to the top of the cliff overlooking the park. This spot is a perfect place to admire the blooming flora.
3. McCarty Park - Owasso
Situated on the west side of Owasso, McCarty hosts sports practice fields, a newly constructed dog park and rodeo grounds. For those with dogs, this park is a perfect place to spend time with pets and enjoy the warm weather. Also, be on the lookout for rodeos that are occasionally hosted at McCarty. While it isn't the most glamorous of local parks, it's sure to entertain.
4. Turkey Mountain - Tulsa
Located right next to the Arkansas River, Turkey Mountain Park covers 300 acres of rugged land. The name likely stems from the fact that the area was popular for hunting turkeys. This park offers hiking trails for everyone, from the absolute beginner to experienced hikers. Early morning is a good time to go, as there is a great view of the sunrise and surrounding areas.
5. Mohawk Park - Tulsa
Connected to the Tulsa Zoo, this park offers miles of paved and unpaved trails. The expansive park often hosts sporting events such as cross-country meets. There is ample parking and many open-air buildings to host events. It can be easy to get lost, so a map of the trails is recommended. The trails directly connect to Oxley Nature Center, a very informative museum with helpful staff. Spring is a great time to experience the wooded trails and sprawling waterways.