McCurtain County
Broken Bow | Idabel | Valliant
Broken Bow
Tucked down in the prettiest part of Oklahoma, Wright City offers a destination worth the trip for just about any traveler.
The rich, 100-year history as a timber industry epicenter combined with its unrivaled natural beauty and abundant resources make Wright City a vacation paradise that might just tempt one into staying. Named for World War I hero William Wylie Wright and hometown of decorated code talker Joseph Oklahombi, citizens of Wright City take pride in a century of being part of American’s history.
Known in rodeo circles as Oklahoma’s “Little Cheyenne,” Wright City hosts one of the oldest continuous rodeos in the state each Independence Day weekend. Competitors often travel hundreds of miles to compete in this renowned event as well as cut a rug at the open air dance and revel in a world-class fireworks display.
Fall foliage connoisseurs down for the spectacular fall colors may also take in the Lumberjax Festival, held the second Saturday in October. This all-day festival celebrates Wright City’s sawmill heritage. The celebration features logging events, woodturning demonstrations, a 5-K run, archery contest, owl and turkey calling events, art and photography contest, music, and craft vendors. It’s a fun-filled day for the entire family.
Other points of interest include great fishing and camping at Pine Creek Lake and all along the Glover River. Wright City is also hoe to several major hunting lease clubs. Just 10 miles north of Wright City – in the foothills of the Kiamighic Mountains – interested travelers can find the Boy Scouts of America’s Camp Dierks. The breathtaking Glover runs through the camp.
For more information about Wright City, contact the Chamber of Commerce at wcchamber@gmail.com or call Jackie Miller at 580-981-7013.
Idabel
Idabel is located in the southeast corner of Oklahoma next to the Arkansas and Texas borders. Currently Idabel is preparing for the upcoming Dogwood Days Festival in April; the newest event, The Red Slough Birding Convention in May; and the opening of the new Mary H. Herron Community Conference Center, located behind the Museum of the Red River. As always, there is plenty to do in Idabel such as golfing at Idabel Country Club’s beautiful 18 hole golf course, bird watching at the Red Slough, appreciating the arts and the state dinosaur, the Acrocanthosaurus atokensis at the Museum of the Red River or brushing up on history at the Barnes-Stevenson House. Walking paths are also located in several areas in the community and don’t forget to eat while you are visiting as Idabel has many fine and fast food establishments.
Valliant
The Town of Valliant is the gateway community to McCurtain County as you travel east on Hwy 70. Nestled between Hugo Lake, Pine Creek Lake, Broken Bow Lake and the Red River, the Valliant community offers excellent opportunities to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of scenic SE Oklahoma. Pine Creek Lake, just 6 miles north of Valliant, is noted for its great fishing and an ideal family destination for recreational relaxation. The manicured grounds along the shoreline offer full RV hookups, several boat ramps, picnicking & grilling areas, swimming, hiking and camping. Cabin rentals and a 9-hole golf course are available just outside the park. Hunters flock seasonally to the nearby wilderness areas populated with Whitetail deer, wild turkey, squirrel, dove and quail. Wild boar permits are available year round.
Valliant was founded when the Arkansas and Choctaw Railroad came through the region. The town was named after chief engineer, Frank W. Valliant, when he purchased the first money order from the first postmaster, Hosea Fowler, at the newly established post office in 1902. Valliant became incorporated and elected it’s first mayor, Ransom Turley in 1904.
The Wheelock Academy is a former Native American girl's boarding school and is the home of Oklahoma's oldest church. The facility was founded in 1832 as a Christian mission after the arrival of the Choctaws over the Trail of Tears. Wheelock Academy welcomes visitors to its historically rich museum and gift shop. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the luscious lawn or at the picnic area behind Pushmataha Hall
Valliant’s 10th Annual Watermelon Festival is July 28th - 30th and celebrates the hefty contributions of local farmers to hearty appetites around the country. Admission and watermelon slices are FREE. On Thursday July 28th, we will crown a new Watermelon Queen at the annual pageant; there are also princess, prince and baby categories. Friday, July 29th is the first day of a co-ed softball tournament, and that evening there will be a gospel singing in the park, featuring local talent. Saturday kicks off with a USATF sanctioned 5K run, followed by a parade, The Coalgate Country Showdown (the nation's largest country music talent search), a classic car show, biggest melon weigh-off, quilt and photography contests, turtle and dachshund races, art demonstrations, vendors, concessions and more. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the wholesome family fun-filled day, and stay in town for the street dance on Saturday night.
Since Valliant is known for the best and sweetest Watermelons to be found, you will surely want to visit The Valliant Farmer’s Market open May through October. There you will find all the locally grown seasonal fruits and vegetables, local honey and fresh eggs.
International Paper operates one of the nation’s largest containerboard mills on the western edge of town. The mill is the area’s biggest employer and runs continuously 365 days per year. The $100 million facility was originally built by Weyerhauser in 1971.
The face of Valliant has changed over time but the hometown atmosphere is preserved and enjoyed by the generations that are proud to call it home. Y’all come see us!
Trash Off Day • April 16
City Wide Yard Sale • May 7
Homecoming • Memorial Day Weekend
9th Annual Watermelon Festival • July 28-30
City Wide Yard Sale • September 3
McCurtain County Free Fair • September
Business Appreciation • November
Valliant Country Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting • December 10
VALLIANT, OK MCCURTAIN COUNTY
Valliant Chamber of Commerce
16 North Dalton - P.O. Box 396
Valliant, OK 74764
(580) 933-5050
www.valliantchamber.org