George M. Sutton Wilderness Park
About
180-Acre Urban Wilderness Named for Famous OU Ornithologist
Sutton Wilderness Park preserves 180 acres of cross-timbers oak and hickory forest in northeast Norman - named for legendary OU ornithologist George M. Sutton. Three miles of trails, fishing pond, and a nature center make it Norman's wildest urban park.
What Kids Can Do
The Nature Center has hands-on bird and Oklahoma wildlife displays - run by volunteers from the Norman Audubon Society. Three miles of trails loop through old-growth cross timbers - kids spot pileated woodpeckers, red-bellied woodpeckers, and Eastern bluebirds. Fishing pond stocked seasonally - bring a small pole. Boardwalks cross seasonal wetlands [marked: Nature Center hours limited - check with city before driving up for indoor exhibits].
What's Included
Free day-use of all trails, pond, and nature center (when open). Fishing free with OK Wildlife Conservation license.
Experience
Plan 1-3 hours. Almost entirely outdoor - bring water, sun protection, sturdy shoes, bug spray spring-fall. Stroller-friendly main trail. About 3 miles east of downtown Norman. Free on-site parking. Open 24/7.