Craven Nature Trail - Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge

Craven Nature Trail is located at Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge, one of nine national wildlife refuges in Oklahoma. The refuge is situated along the Cumberland Pool on the Washita Arm of Lake Texoma. Admission to the refuge is free and is accessible from sunrise to sunset. 

This one mile loop trail is situated in the Oklahoma portion of the Cross Timbers ecosystem. Even in the dead of winter, the forest was a delight to walk through. Wildlife spotted include numerous songbirds and armadillos. The trail begins as an asphalt path that connects to a boardwalk overlooking Dick's Pond.

The main feature of the Craven Nature Trail is Dick's Pond and the platform which overlooks it. Earl Craven, the trail's namesake, was the first Refuge Manager when the refuge was established in 1946. This pond was named for his son Dick.

A kiosk notes that the pond is home to beavers, otters, kingfishers, and a variety of migratory birds. On the day of my hike, a few ducks were floating on the pond.

After making an exit from the boardwalk and returning to the trail, the path turns from asphalt to dirt for its remainder. The trail contains no significant changes in elevation and is easy to follow for its entirety. All in all, this trail makes for a short, but pleasant walk in the woods. 

Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge is teeming with wildlife, especially birds. Like Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge to the South, you will likely find migratory birds such as snow geese. Along with making a hike, it is worth your while to observe the refuge's wildlife. Be advised that portions of the refuge are closed during the year for hunting. Check the refuge's Facebook page to see these dates. 

More information:

• Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge website
• Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge Facebook
• All Trails