Cross Timbers State Park Equestrian and OHV Circuit
Cross timbers technical challenge near Tulsa
The Cross Timbers State Park Equestrian and OHV Circuit winds through 1,075 acres of authentic cross timbers forest where post oak and blackjack oak form dense thickets broken by prairie openings. The 25-mile network of interconnected trails follows old cattle paths and fire roads, with the challenging Rock Creek Ford requiring careful line selection through loose sandstone and seasonal water flow. The standout feature is the Sandstone Ridge Technical Section, where drivers navigate between house-sized boulders and tight squeeze plays that test both vehicle width and driver nerve.
This moderate to difficult trail demands high-clearance 4WD with good approach angles for the rock gardens. Skid plates recommended for the creek crossings and sharp sandstone edges. Spring and fall offer the best conditions when creek levels are manageable and temperatures reasonable. No permits required, but the $5 day-use fee applies. Dispersed camping isn’t allowed in the park, but nearby Keystone State Park offers full facilities. What you get is a legitimate technical challenge within an hour of Tulsa, proving Oklahoma’s got more rocks than most folks realize.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 25 mi / 40.2 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 920 ft |
| Best season | March-May, September-November |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Beggs, Oklahoma |
| Land manager | Oklahoma State Parks |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Official sources | oklahomaparks.com |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler or 4Runner handle this trail, or do I need a lift?
A stock high-clearance 4WD will get through, but you'll want at least a mild lift (2-3 inches) to clear the sandstone shelf rock sections comfortably. Lockers are not required but will save you headaches on the slippery creek approaches after rain.
What's the trail like in summer — is it worth attempting in July or August?
Summer is rough here. Oklahoma heat pushes 100°F+ and the creek crossings can dry to mud wallows that are harder to read than flowing water. Stick to March–May or September–November for the best conditions and actual water flow.
Do I need a permit or day-use fee to run this trail?
Yes — Cross Timbers State Park charges a daily vehicle fee, typically $5–10 per vehicle. OHV registration is required for Oklahoma residents; non-residents need to verify current out-of-state OHV rules with Oklahoma State Parks before showing up.
What's the hardest section on this circuit and what makes it technical?
The creek crossing sections with sandstone ledge exits are where most rigs get stuck — the rock is slick when wet and the approach angles are uneven. At 25 miles with 800 feet of cumulative gain, fatigue is a factor too; the back half of the loop has the worst of it.
Is there anywhere to camp inside the park, and how far is the nearest gas from the trailhead?
Cross Timbers State Park has established campsites with hookups — reserve ahead on the Oklahoma State Parks site because weekends fill fast. For fuel, Beggs is your closest stop at roughly 10–15 minutes from the trailhead; don't count on anything closer.
Trail track
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