A WARM WELCOME IN DOUGHERTY, OK

If you are from the “Big City” (anything with a population over 25,000), you’ve probably not every experienced any place like Dougherty, OK. You would do yourself a favor if you took the meandering road to this community in the heart of the Arbuckle Mountains and spent a little time. Heck, the scenic drive alone, coming in from any direction, is well-worth the fuel you will expend.

Dougherty’s history lays claim to a few outlaws, a large number of hard-working individuals in rockcrushing plants, cotton gins, on farms and ranches, the birthplace of an American jazz and pop singer (Kay Starr) and even the occasional rumor of a Sasquatch sighting. The unusual is the expected in this quiet, secluded burg, and the locals are fine with that. The historic train depot has left the community once and returned. Yes, you read that correctly, the depot, not the train. The 2020 Census reports a population of 215 people. This means everyone knows everyone and your mama will know what you did before you get home. If you seek lodging in this city, it will be in an upscale treehouse for grown-ups (Rock Creek Retreat) east of town. If your lodging is on wheels, park it at Dougherty RV Park and be a local for a few days. discover unique festivals & culture

There is only one store in town, but that is all you need. Start the morning with a breakfast biscuit while you “suds your duds” at the Dougherty Store. Gas up your car, grab some snacks and prepare for a day of adventure. You will depart with a warmed heart, knowing you have experienced something rare these days… community hospitality. Roll the window down, drop it in to drive and slowly pull away as the shopkeeper waves and calls out “Y’all come back now.” And she truly means it!

4th of July Spectacular

Largest fireworks display in the region

World Championship Watermelon Seed Spittin’ Contest (July 4th)

A Tradition for more than 50 years and featured in the Guinness book of world records

Okie Noodling Festival

(June)

World’s Largest Hand-Fishing Tournament

Pauls Valley Opry

Every 1st Saturday

BrickFest & PVPD Car Show

(Sept )

Variety of car classics, food and shopping vendors plus inflatables, a marching band parade and vintage in the valley bicycle stunt show

Pauls Valley 5th Friday

Art Walk Experience

Fun for the entire family with a wide selection of artistic styles, live entertainment, live demonstrations, food and g ood company

*Please visit individual Facebook accounts for event updates*

Depot Museum

The depot is a beautiful museum and meeting area for programs and parties, but still maintains most of its original integrity.

The Vault Art Space & Gathering Place

Art exhibit and private event venue

Pauls Valley Municipal Golf Course

9 Hole course with Bermuda greens

Pauls Valley Water Park

Open 7 days a week, Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend

Toy & Action Figure Museum

12,000 Exhibits of classic pop culture figures, cartoons, toys and superheroes

Donald W. Reynolds Recreation Center

Featuring 36,540 square feet of action, information, recreation, fitness and learning. A facility that meets the needs and desires of our community; impacting everyone in a positive way.

*Please visit individual Facebook accounts for event updates*

This page was funded by TISHOMINGO REFUGE EDUCATION AND ECOLOGY SOCIETY (TREES), an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the conservation of natural resources on the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge, as well as ecology education and responsible wildlifeoriented activities for all ages.

TREES also supports the Tishomingo National Fish Hatchery (another great place to visit!).

Contact them at theVisitor’s Center.