Footprint in rock

Choctaw Country Destinations

Discovering Squatch Country

It’s somewhat comforting – or maybe it’s terrifying – that there are still mysteries in this world yet to be explained by the scientific community. Mysteries like the ever-elusive Bigfoot, said to roam the untrodden foothills of the Kiamichi Mountains in Southeastern Oklahoma.

An eternal outsider, Sasquatch has haunted the lore of this land for at least the last 400 years. Over that time, this enigmatic creature has captured not only our curiosity, but our hearts as well. Perhaps we resonate with his loneliness, his seeming exile to the fringes of an ever-expanding universe of electric lights, ghastly machines and concrete roads. Then again, perhaps he likes it that way. And who can blame him? If you’re reading this, chances are you prefer the untamed wilderness to the unnatural cacophony of the city, too.

Whether or not you believe in the existence of Bigfoot, there’s no denying the secretive thrill of the quiet, untouched air of a dense forest, heavy with ethereal sounds that don’t quite match our internal catalogue of what we know to be earthly. If you’re curious about seeking out the seemingly unexplainable, follow the trail Sasquatch has made throughout Choctaw Country by visiting our top three Bigfoot hotspots. Who knows – you just might catch a glimpse of North America’s last great mystery.

Talihina

Known as “the village between the mountains,” Talihina is a town rich in history and natural beauty, full of romantic cafés, delightful antique shops and historic inns. And no matter what time of year you visit, driving the Talimena National Scenic Byway is always a breathtaking experience.

But you’ll have to visit in May if you want to get in on the excitement of the Kiamichi Mountain Bigfoot Conference. The festivities begin Friday, May 31, with a meet and greet at the where you’ll find an awe-inspiring display of stories, recordings and, of course, Bigfoot souvenirs. The conference continues at the Choctaw Nation Community Center on Saturday, where you’ll have a chance to participate in discussions with Squatch experts or perhaps even share your own close encounters.

Heavener

There has always been something wild about the little town of Heavener. The town’s claim to fame lies in a mysterious stone with runic carvings, which some believe to be proof of Viking visitation, found in the aptly named Heavener Runestone Park. Nestled in the lush landscape on the outskirts of the Ouachita National Forest, the park is an ideal site for Sasquatch hunters and features single and group campsites as well as RV sites for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive creature overnight.

If that sounds like your idea of a good time, be sure to make your way to the park June 15th for your chance to encounter other likeminded individuals at the Bigfoot UFO Fest. Join your fellow believers in the supernatural for educational speakers, a Bigfoot whooping contest, painting, live music and bonfire storytelling. Plus, don’t miss your chance to snag a photo with the Bigfoot She-nanigans Squatch!

Broken Bow

Beavers Bend State Park and the surrounding area is a popular sight for Bigfoot enthusiasts. This little corner of Choctaw Country boasts multiple sightings and eerie encounters, and with the beauty of the surrounding forest and the bountiful Mountain Fork River, it’s no wonder why.

In fact, you can’t go far in this area of Oklahoma without running into a store named after Bigfoot or a cutout of the creature’s likeness tucked into the fence line – places like Bigfoot Speedway and Bigfoot Axe Throwing at Hochatown Escape Games. If you really want a one-of-a-kind Sasquatch experience, head to Gasquatch in nearby Idabel. Featuring a 24-hour menu at the Cave Café, a collection of vintage cars, one of the world’s tallest Bigfoot statues and all the Squatch gear you can imagine, it’s a must-stop for any Bigfoot fan.