Make Your Backpacking Journey a Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Backpackers, we know you’re just waiting for travel restrictions to be lifted so you can find a new, beautiful place to visit!

In the meantime, while we’re waiting on travel to open up, why not go backpacking in your own state? Our own stunning Oklahoma has plenty to offer!

Either way, wherever you choose to go, here are some ideas for how to make your backpacking journey a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Go With Someone Whose Company You Enjoy

Backpacking through the wilderness can get lonely and going with friends has a number of benefits. Not only will friends take great photos of you in front of Lake Texoma while the sun sets, but it’s a great bonding experience.

Backpacking gives you time to talk and catch up on what’s happening in each other’s lives. Friends can also share the load. Each one can bring different supplies and this way, neither one’s backpack will be too heavy. If you’re planning on going to a secluded area, then you and your friends can look out for one another on the hike.

Learn Some of the Local History

There’s always history to explore. whenever you are. Learning some of the local history can teach you about customs in the area, but it’s also a chance to experience some things you can’t see elsewhere.

If you’re backpacking in our own beautiful backyard, Madill, Oklahoma, has some interesting historical sites. Motor history buffs, the Ford dealership is one of the oldest dealerships in Oklahoma. You could have a picnic at

William Ray Memorial Park.

You can also take a short trip to Fort Washita Historic Site, where you may be able to see a Civil War reenactment. If you plan your backpacking trip in March, then you could go to the Fur Trade Era Rendezvous.

There’s also the Museum of Southern Oklahoma, where you can see the world’s oldest working refrigerator, a variety of Indian artifacts, as well as see how telephones have changed over the years.

Catch Your Own Dinner

Take your fishing rod and reel with you and head down to Lake Texoma, where you can catch a large striped bass. Lake Texoma is home to a variety of fish, such as Sand Bass, Bluegill, Smallmouth bass, Crappie and Blackbass.

It’s important to note that you can only use a fishing rod and line to fish, and you must have your fishing license on you. If you catch a Smallmouth bass or Largemouth bass, you’d be able to keep it if it’s 14 inches or more. You’re allowed a bag limit of 5 fish daily for any combination of fish you catch.

If you plan your backpacking trip in June, then make sure to do it in the first week as you can then head to the National Sand Bass Festival.

Aside from the fishing tournament, there are nightly concerts, arts and crafts and a carnival.

Marvel at the Natural Beauty Around You

When you go hiking on one of the natural trails around Lake Texoma, you’ll find yourself surrounded by beauty. You can head a few short miles to Cross Timbers Hiking Trail, where you’ll make your way from Juniper Point recreation area to Paw Paw Creek.

Here you’ll get to see a variety of bird life, including wild turkey. If you’re lucky enough, you may even come across a Nine-Banded Armadillo or Virginia Opossum.

Conclusion

Backpacking is all about adventure! Whether you’re alone or with someone else, in a familiar area or far away, get creative and have some fun.

You may be surprised at how many unique, exciting experiences await you! Try something you wouldn’t normally do, like going on a fishing trip, roughing it in a tent, or sampling local cuisine. There’s always something wonderful waiting, if you only open yourself up to it.