Turner Falls Park: Oklahoma's Natural Gem

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see ya lay-ter]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no problem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pahr-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?Howdy, doin' alright?
  [haw-dee, doin' alright?]
• Fine. And you?Fine. How 'bout you?
  [fine. how 'bout you?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak English?]
• I don't understandI reckon I don't get it
  [I reckon I don't get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I take a gander at the menu?
  [can I take a gan-der at the menu?]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [I don't do meat]
• Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bot-toms up!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up?
  [can I set-tle up?]

• Help!I need a hand!
  [I need a hand!]
• Go away!Git!
  [git!]
• Call the Police!Ring up the Sheriff!
  [ring up the Sheriff!]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc on the line!
  [get a doc on the line!]
• I'm lostI done lost my way
  [I done lost my way]
• I'm illI ain't feelin' right
  [I ain't feelin' right]

• I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to purchase...
  [I'm fixin' to pur-chase...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just browsin']
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [what's the dam-age?]
• That's too expensiveThat's a mite pricey
  [that's a mite pricey]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya do better on the price?
  [can ya do bet-ter on the price?]

• What time is it?What's the hour?
  [what's the hour?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
• Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest'day]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorrer
  [tomor-rer]
• 1One
  [one]
• 2Two
  [two]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [eight]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the... at?
  [where's the... at?]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [what's the addy?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kin ya point it out (on the map)?
  [kin ya point it out (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus rollin' around?
  [when's the next bus rollin' around?]
• A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [a pass (to ....)]

Turner Falls Park, located in the Arbuckle Mountains of Oklahoma, boasts a history that dates back to prehistoric times. The Arbuckle Mountains are among the oldest mountain ranges in the United States, estimated to be around 1.4 billion years old. Over the millennia, natural forces sculpted this rugged landscape, giving birth to the stunning 77-foot waterfall that is the park's centerpiece. Early indigenous peoples, including the Caddo and Wichita tribes, inhabited the area, utilizing its natural resources for sustenance and shelter.

The park’s namesake, Mazeppa Thomas Turner, was a Scottish immigrant who discovered the falls in 1878. Turner was a farmer and explorer who was captivated by the beauty of the falls and the surrounding area. He settled nearby and the waterfall was later named in his honor. Turner's discovery brought new attention to the region and set the stage for its eventual development as a public recreation area.

In 1925, the city of Davis, Oklahoma, recognized the potential of Turner Falls as a tourist destination. The city acquired the land and began to develop it into a public park. Infrastructure improvements were made, including the construction of trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities. Efforts were also undertaken to preserve the natural beauty of the area and ensure its accessibility to the public. Turner Falls Park officially opened to the public in the late 1920s, quickly becoming a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a significant role in the development of Turner Falls Park. The CCC was a New Deal program established to provide jobs and develop public lands. In the 1930s, CCC workers constructed many of the park's lasting features, including stone bridges, shelters, and trails. Their craftsmanship and dedication greatly enhanced the park’s infrastructure and aesthetic appeal, leaving a legacy that visitors can still appreciate today.

Today, Turner Falls Park covers 1,500 acres and remains one of Oklahoma's most beloved natural attractions. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, hiking, and camping. Its rich history is preserved through various informational displays and guided tours, allowing visitors to appreciate both its natural beauty and historical significance. Turner Falls Park continues to be a testament to the region’s geological, cultural, and historical heritage, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

Turner Falls Park is located in the Arbuckle Mountains near Davis, Oklahoma. The nearest major airport is Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City, approximately 75 miles north of the park. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to reach the park. The journey typically takes around 1.5 hours by car. Alternatively, you can fly into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, which is about 120 miles south of the park. Public transportation options to the park are limited, so renting a car is the most convenient way to get there.

Once at Turner Falls Park, the best way to get around is on foot. The park has several walking trails that lead to its main attractions, including the waterfall and the castle ruins. For those who prefer not to walk, golf cart rentals are available within the park. If you plan to explore the surrounding areas, such as the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, having a car is essential. Parking is available at various locations within the park, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted within Turner Falls Park for entry fees, rentals, and purchases at the on-site store. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions or in case of technical issues with card payments. There are ATMs available in nearby towns like Davis and Ardmore.

Turner Falls Park is generally safe for tourists. However, it is important to take standard precautions, such as not leaving valuables in your car and being aware of your surroundings. The park is located in a rural area, so wildlife encounters are possible; always keep a safe distance from animals. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is advisable to avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Turner Falls Park has a ranger station and first aid facilities on-site. The nearest hospital is Mercy Hospital in Ardmore, approximately 20 miles south of the park. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Davis and Ardmore where over-the-counter medications can be purchased.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes, especially if you plan on hiking. Avoid wearing flip-flops or sandals, as the terrain can be uneven. Religion: There are no specific religious customs to observe within the park, but always be respectful of other visitors. Public Transport: Public transport options are limited, so having your own vehicle is advisable. Greetings: Do greet fellow visitors with a friendly 'hello' or 'good day.' Eating & Drinking: Do bring your own food and drinks, as dining options within the park are limited. Don’t leave food scraps behind, as it can attract wildlife.

To experience Turner Falls Park like a local, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Bring a picnic and enjoy it by the river. Don’t miss the natural swimming areas, but always be cautious of water currents and depth. Engage with park staff and rangers; they often have great tips and can share interesting facts about the park’s history and wildlife. If you visit during the fall, the foliage in the Arbuckle Mountains is a sight to behold.