Little Sahara State Park
Little Sahara State Park is a beautiful place to visit, and is located in Northwestern Oklahoma. It is easily accessible, with many points of interest and large parking areas. It is named after its signature sand dunes that resemble the dunes of the Sahara Desert in Africa. Some of the largest dunes in America can be found there, as well as many family-friendly recreational activities.
Geography
The park was created to preserve the natural formation of the sand dunes, as they took millions of years of erosion to form. There are over 1,600 acres of sand for off road vehicles (ATV’s, dune buggies). There are also multiple hiking trails and camp sites open to the public, as well as a variety of wildlife to be observed. Birdwatching is a great way to take advantage of wildlife in the area.
The tallest dunes are up to 75 feet tall, which make sandboarding a thrilling option to anyone. The sand is soft and fine, ensuring a smooth slide down the slope.
How are the Dunes Formed, and Why Should We Preserve Them?
Over millions of years, particles found in rivers and areas nearby are ground down to fine grains of sand due to water and wind erosion. Wind erosion carried the sand to its current location, and then shaped the mounds into the dunes we know today. The dunes do not stay in one shape though, as weather conditions constantly change the formation.
Sand dunes anywhere in the world are very unique. It is our job as humans to protect these valuable natural formations in order for future generations to enjoy and learn from them as much as past and current generations did. Protection at Little Sahara include limits on off-road vehicle access to dunes, requiring visitors to stay on the set trails while hiking, and park staff regularly.
Attractions
1. Sandboarding & Sledding
Sandboarding and sand sledding is one of the top attractions at Little Sahara State Park. The dunes provide the perfect terrain for these activities, and no personal equipment is required. Visitors can rent a board or sled on site and enjoy the excitement of this unique experience.
2. Off-Roading & ATV Riding
There are over 1,600 acres of sand dunes for off road vehicles, fulfilling an off-road enthusiasts dream. Anyone with an appropriate vehicle can explore the terrain.
3. Camping & Picnic Areas
Little Sahara offers multiple areas for campers, some of which include RV sites and tent sites. There are also many picnic areas for anyone to enjoy the beauty of their surroundings while they eat, or to just take a break from their activities.
Rules and Regulations
Why are Rules Needed?
Though state parks can be a fun and thrilling experience, safety measures must be taken into account to ensure the protection of nature. Not only are the dunes and their surroundings a unique and intricate formation of nature, they are also the habitat of many forms of wildlife. Failure to abide by any rule could result in fines or criminal charges.
Guidelines for Off-road Vehicles
Off-roading and ATV riding are very popular among visitors, but they can only continue if the guidelines are followed. Visitors must only drive in the designated areas, avoid driving over plants or wildlife habitats, and staying away from other visitors while driving.
Safety Measures for Sandboarding and Sledding
All sandboarders and sand sledders must wear a helmet at all time, use proper equipment, and follow the park’s rules. They must also remain only on designated trails and avoid riding too close to other people or animals.
How Will You Enjoy What Little Sahara Has to Offer?
Little Sahara State Park offers fun for the entire family, from trips overnight to sandboarding during the day, everyone is sure to find something they love. Sand dunes are only found in certain parts of the world, so be sure to take advantage of what nature offers you, especially if its nearby!
