Other things that are helpful to know before your visit
Lake of the Arbuckles
- Up to date lake level information
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The runoff into Lake of the Arbuckles can carry debris (tree limbs, logs, etc.) and boaters are cautioned to slow down, see and avoid
Platt Historic District Alcohol Closure
All areas east of U.S. 177 are closed to alcoholic beverages from May 1 through September 30 each year by the authority of the Superintendent's Compendium (36 CFR §1.5). This includes Central Campground, Cold Springs Campground, Little Niagara, Bear Falls, Garfield Falls, and Panther Falls.
Pets
Pets are allowed in many areas of the park, but not all. Find out where pets are and are not allowed on our visiting with pets page.
Bison
The park now has two bison pastures. The bison are currently in the east pasture. The best way to view the east pasture is to park at Pavilion Springs and take the Veterans Trail. The pasture fence starts about .1 miles from the parking area and runs along approximately the next .4 miles of the trail. There is little shade available on the trail in the afternoon; please go early in the day if visiting in hotter months.
Limited parking is available on gravelled pullouts along SE Perimeter Drive. Please only use this parking area for short stops so it can be available to those with limited mobility. Do not park along Highway 177. Do not cross the highway from the west pasture viewpoint.
