Located about 120 miles southeast of McAlester, Beaver Bend State Park is an outdoor recreation mecca on the southern end of Broken Bow Lake. Named for the big bend on the Mountain Fork River, which runs through the park, Beavers Bend camping visitors can observe some of the area’s interesting rock formations—part of the Ouachita Mountains—that expose the area’s unique geologic origins. The main attraction at Beaver Bend however, is the extensive opportunities to play outdoors—from hiking, horseback riding and fishing to golfing, scuba diving and ziplining. Or, you don’t have to play at all. You can just kick back by the river and watch the clouds drift by. Visitors to Beaver Bend have a variety of lodging and camping options to choose from, including rustic and modern cabins, tent and RV campgrounds, and the nearby Lakeview Lodge. For campers, there nearly 450 campsites, in eight different areas, available for parking an RV or pitching a tent. RV camps have water and electrical hookups, with showers and dump stations nearby. Services within the park include a nature center, restaurant, fly shop, kid’s day camps, boat rentals, craft classes, and campfire programs. Campsite rates range from $12–$25/night. Once you’re settled, spend your days on the river with a kayak or paddleboat, or just kick back and soak up some sun at the swim beach. If you’d rather cast a line or swing your clubs, go for one of the many fishing holes on the river, or head over to the nearby Cedar Creek Golf Course. Hikers will want to pack their boots to wander among Beaver Bend’s 12 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging loop hikes. Stop by the Forest Heritage Center to learn more about the area, and pick up a trail map to help you navigate the shady pine and hardwood forest. If you’re visiting in the fall, don’t miss the Folk Festival & Craft Show, which features a variety of craft exhibits, music performances and tasty foods.