Hackberry Flat Wildlife Management Area Sand Hills
Sand dunes meet prairie in prime waterfowl country
This route cuts through the heart of one of Oklahoma’s premier waterfowl management areas, where sand dunes rise from prairie bottomlands near the confluence of the North Fork Red River and Red River. The main access road winds through native sand prairie and seasonal wetlands, passing the historic Hackberry Creek drainage and multiple wildlife observation blinds. Key waypoints include the main headquarters area and the elevated observation deck overlooking the primary marsh complex.
The sandy two-track requires high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain when the clay bottomlands turn slick. Best accessed from September through March when hunting seasons allow general access, though special permits may be required during peak waterfowl seasons. Bring water and expect no cell service. This is working wildlife habitat management at its finest — you’ll see everything from sandhill cranes to river otters if you time it right.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Sand |
| Features | Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1420 ft |
| Best season | September-March |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Frederick, Oklahoma |
| Land manager | Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
