TIFS on the Road: Scenic and historic state park near Wilburton perfect for weekend or day trips

Robbers Cave State Park, located just a few miles outside of Wilburton in Latimer County, is a place where history and nature intertwine.

Once a notorious hideout for infamous outlaws, the park now serves as a serene retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Originally known as Latimer State Park, has a storied past that dates back to its use as an Osage hunting ground and the object of French exploration in the 18th century.

However, it is perhaps best known for its association with some of the most notorious outlaws of the Old West, including Jesse James, Belle Starr, the Youngers, the Dalton Gang, and the Rufus Buck Gang.

The cave’s secluded location and rugged terrain made it an ideal hideout, allowing criminals to evade law enforcement and escape through a secret back exit.

In 1929, Carlton Weaver, a Wilburton newspaper editor and state representative, donated 120 acres surrounding the cave to the Boy Scouts of America for use as a camp. This marked the beginning of the area’s transformation from an outlaw refuge to a place of recreation and education.

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA) played significant roles in developing the park, constructing cabins, trails, and other amenities using locally quarried rock.

Today, Robbers Cave State Park spans over 8,000 acres and offers a wide range of activities for visitors. From hiking and horseback riding to fishing and rock climbing, the park provides ample opportunities for adventure and exploration.

The park’s three lakes – Lake Carlton, Lake Wayne Wallace, and Coon Creek Lake – are popular spots for fishing and swimming.

For those interested in the park’s outlaw history, the park museum offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing artifacts and stories of the infamous criminals who once roamed the area.

Visitors can also explore the park’s many hiking trails, some of which lead to the very caves where notorious frontier outlaws once sought refuge.

Robbers Cave State Park offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the highlights:

-Camping: The park features RV, primitive, and equestrian camping options. There are also cabins, yurts, and group camp facilities available for those looking for a more comfortable stay.

-Lodging: The park includes a lodge with modern amenities, providing a cozy place to stay while exploring the park.

-Recreational Activities: Visitors can enjoy seasonal trout fishing, hiking, equestrian trails, and rock climbing. The park also has a swimming area in the no-wake lake.

-Water Activities: Canoe and paddleboat rentals are available, allowing visitors to explore the park’s lakes.

-Family-Friendly Amenities: The park offers a swimming pool, miniature golf, and a snow cone stand, which are open seasonally.

-Nature Center and Gift Shop: The park has a nature center and a gift shop where visitors can learn more about the area’s history and pick up souvenirs

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a journey back in time, the park offers something for everyone. As you explore the rugged terrain and hidden caves, you can’t help but feel a connection to the past and the legendary figures who once called this place home.

Robbers Cave State Park is located at 2084 NW 146th Rd, Wilburton, OK. The property is is located five miles north of Wilburton, Oklahoma on State Highway 2 approximately 75 ,\miles from Fort Smith.