Pennington Creek Park
Swimming hole in Tishomingo, Oklahoma · Creek
Pennington Creek Park is a creek/dam swimming hole. It is near Tishomingo, Oklahoma. Fee notes: Small fee. Best season: Summer for swimming and warm-weather visits.
Typical season: Summer for swimming and warm-weather visits
About Pennington Creek Park
Pennington Creek Park gives you creek/dam swimming access near Oklahoma City in Oklahoma. Expect a natural bank, not a built beach. Fed by the cool, clear waters of Pennington Creek, this official recreational area draws families, anglers, and warm-weather wanderers who want something more intimate than a crowded reservoir. The creek moves through limestone formations and settles into natural pools, creating the kind of spot that feels like a secret even when it isn't. The landscape here is quintessential southern Oklahoma. Gentle, wooded, and quietly dramatic. Limestone outcroppings line the creek banks, sculpted over centuries into smooth ledges and shallow shelves that are perfect for sitting, sunning, or simply watching the water move. Mature trees arch overhead, filtering summer sunlight into shifting patterns on the surface. In autumn, the foliage ignites in shades of amber and crimson, making the park every bit as beautiful when the swimming area. Come spring, wildflowers push through the creek banks and water levels rise, giving the whole place an energetic, renewed feeling. Even in winter, the park draws visitors seeking the particular peace of a quiet wild spot with no crowds. Treat Pennington Creek Park as a wild swim: no lifeguard, variable depth, and rules that can change by season.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Creek/Dam
- Water body
- Pennington Creek
- Fee
- Small fee
- Nearest town
- Tishomingo
- State
- Oklahoma
- Coordinates
- 34.23325, -96.68260
- Best season
- Summer for swimming and warm-weather visits.
- Access difficulty
- Easy access via well-maintained roads; no strenuous hiking required.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Camping
- (http://freecampsites.net/pennington-creek-park/) Full hook-ups available, restrooms, showers
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- Restrooms, showers, full hook-ups for RV camping, and designated picnic areas available.
- Listing last updated
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitSummer for swimming and warm-weather visits.
- AccessEasy access via well-maintained roads; no strenuous hiking required.
- FacilitiesRestrooms, showers, full hook-ups for RV camping, and designated picnic areas available.
- Camping nearby(http://freecampsites.net/pennington-creek-park/) Full hook-ups available, restrooms, showers
Highlights & features
- Clear, refreshing creek waters
- Rich Chickasaw Nation history
- Abundant wildlife and scenic views
- Full camping facilities
- Accessible location from Oklahoma City
- Chickasaw Nation historical significance
- Limestone formations and natural pools
- Seasonal charm with vibrant foliage and wildflowers.
How to get there
Pennington Creek Park lies in Oklahoma near Oklahoma City, Tishomingo. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go.
Start in Oklahoma City
Begin by heading south on Interstate 35 (I-35). Travel about 70 miles
Continue on I-35 for about 70 miles until you reach Exit 55.
Take Exit 55
Exit onto State Route 7 (RT 7) heading east. Follow RT 7 through the towns of Davis and Sulphur. (Note: Sulphur is home to Little Niagara .) Join RT 1
As RT 7 merges with State Route 1 (RT 1), turn left to stay on RT 1. Continue straight on RT 1 when RT 7 turns east (left).
Enter Ravia
Follow RT 1 until you reach the town of Ravia. Once in Ravia, turn east (left) onto Grand Avenue. Follow Wrecker Road
From Grand Avenue, bear right onto Wrecker Road. Continue east on Wrecker Road as it transitions into State Route 22 (RT 22).
Stay on RT 22 to Tishomingo Follow RT 22 as it winds through the countryside, crosses the river, and leads into the town of Tishomingo. In Tishomingo, RT 22 becomes Main Street. Turn onto S. Capitol Avenue
From Main Street in Tishomingo, turn left onto South Capitol Avenue. Cross the river again, and shortly after crossing, take the first left into Pennington Creek Park.
Helpful notes
Parking
Pennington Creek Park has designated parking areas near the entrance. Look for signs indicating parking spots. Trailheads and Access Once parked, follow the clearly marked paths leading toward the swimming area. The trails are well-maintained and easy to navigate. Landmarks As you approach the park, you’ll notice the river crossings and the park entrance sign, which will help confirm you’re in the right location. Have a safe visit to Pennington Creek Park! Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
Plan your visit
Pennington Creek Park works well as a day trip from Oklahoma City or Tishomingo. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at Little Niagara (about 25 mi away) or browse more Oklahoma creek spots in our directory. For the full list in Oklahoma, see our state directory.
Access & fees
A small fee is required for park entry. The park provides all basic facilities. Follow marked trails from the parking area to access the creek swimming spot.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Pennington Creek Park?
Yes. Pennington Creek Park near Oklahoma City and Tishomingo in OK is a creek/dam swimming spot on Pennington Creek. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
How much does Pennington Creek Park cost?
Plan for fees: Small fee. Rates and policies change — verify with the land manager before you drive.
How do you get to Pennington Creek Park?
Pennington Creek Park is in OK within day-trip range of Oklahoma City and Tishomingo. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Map & location
Culture & history
Tishomingo was the first capital of the Chickasaw Nation, and the park reflects the area's deep cultural and historical roots.
Conservation
Follow 'Leave No Trace' principles to protect the creek and surrounding environment. Dispose of trash responsibly and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Sources & updates
Reference sources
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