Cherokee Nation celebrates grand opening of Sallisaw Creek Park

SALLISAW, Okla. - Defining a new era for conservation, Cherokee Nation is celebrating the grand opening of Sallisaw Creek Park, located on the Robert S. Kerr Reservoir.

The 100-acre park falls under the protection of the Cherokee Nation Park, Wildlands, Fishing and Hunting Preserve Act of 2021, authored by Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., and boasts two RV campgrounds with a total of 74 sites, as well as five luxury cabins.

"Preservation is a cornerstone of Cherokee values, and legislation is crucial to our ability to protect what matters most," said Chief Hoskin. "This park is a testament to the Cherokee Nation's unwavering commitment to stewarding our natural resources and connecting people with the land. It is a place where nature, culture and community can come together to be celebrated and shared."

The full-service RV sites can accommodate rigs up to 60 feet and offer pull-thru access for guest convenience. They are thoughtfully designed with extended spaces for gathering, a charcoal grill, a fire pit, a picnic table and lantern holders.

Luxury cabins are available in two and three bedrooms, as well as one large, six-bedroom cabin ideal for family reunions and groups of up to 16 people. Waterfront views and top-tier amenities, including fully equipped kitchens, provide modern and refined comfort from outdoor adventures.

"This park is truly something the Cherokee people can be proud of," said Cherokee Nation Deputy Principal Chief Bryan Warner. "Access to nature is more than recreation; it's restoration, reflection and reconnection. The waterways, wildlife and serene forests are all part of my childhood, and I'm thankful that they will continue to serve as the backdrop for memories to be made and cherished."

A new, four-lane boat ramp provides direct access to the Robert S. Kerr Reservoir, positioning the park as a go-to for fishing tournaments while alleviating congestion during peak times.

Additional amenities include archery hunting, a 35-acre catch-and-release fishing pond, horseback riding trails and other conveniences such as a welcome center, restrooms and laundry facilities.

"Today we are celebrating the meaningful investment in one of the most critical, valuable assets we have as a tribe - our land," said Chuck Garrett, Cherokee Nation Businesses CEO. "We have a responsibility to support projects that reflect both our values and our needs. Sallisaw Creek Park is truly something special; it grounds us in who we are and reminds us what is of value for our future."

The full 1,300-acre property was transferred to Cherokee Nation in 1998 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and put into trust. It opened to the public a few years later for day-use, offering a small boat ramp, horseback riding trails and limited hunting.

Development of the new park was supported by more than 40 miles of underground infrastructure, including construction of an onsite water treatment plant.

"Conservation and recreation go hand in hand," said Christina Justice, Cherokee Nation Secretary of Natural Resources. "When people experience and connect with these natural spaces, it deepens their appreciation and strengthens their commitment to protect them. Sallisaw Creek Park is designed to foster that connection while ensuring these resources are responsibly managed for generations to come."

The tribe's major investments in the park began under the administration of former Principal Chief Bill John Baker. The administration of Chief Hoskin and Deputy Chief Warner continued those investments, placed the park under the protection of the tribe's 2021 parks law and delegated further development and management to CNB.

"This park is a realization of a dream shared by many, when all that was here was potential," said James Thornton, director of Cherokee Nation Parks. "It is a new chapter defined by connection, shared experiences and a commitment to unmatched hospitality. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to be here today and look forward to seeing the park full of guests."

Cherokee Nation Sallisaw Creek Park is owned by Cherokee Nation, the largest tribe in the United States, and is located within its 14-county reservation in northeast Oklahoma. It is managed by Cherokee Nation Businesses, within the cultural and economic portfolio. The park is open seven days a week, with support staff and security onsite.

For more information about Cherokee Nation Sallisaw Creek Park, please visit https://www.sallisawcreekpark.com/.

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