Great Salt Plains State Park
Jet, OK
A bright salt flat beside a reservoir where visitors can dig for selenite crystals in a designated area during the season. Bring a bucket, water and a hat, and check the opening dates for the digging area.
The Great Salt Plains near Jet form a salt flat of about 11,000 acres (roughly 4,450 hectares). According to the park, Oklahoma is the only place in the world where the hourglass-shaped selenite crystals can be found, and they are also the state crystal. The park sits on Great Salt Plains Lake, whose water is said to be about half as salty as the ocean; more than 300 bird species have been recorded in the adjoining wildlife refuge.
The crystal digging area is open every year from April 1 to October 15, from sunrise to sunset. Bring buckets, water and sun protection, because the area is open and exposed. The park offers cabins, RV sites with electric hookups and tent sites; fishing, paddling and hiking are also possible. Allow half a day for crystal hunting.
- Nearest town
- Jet, OK
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 36.7395, -98.1442
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in September and November. Hot in June–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Nearby
FAQs
Where is Great Salt Plains State Park?
Great Salt Plains State Park is in Jet, OK, at GPS 36.7395, -98.1442. It is about 79 mi from Wichita.
What is there to see near Great Salt Plains State Park?
Places worth a stop nearby: Gloss Mountain State Park (35 mi), Guthrie Historic District (72 mi), Arcadia Round Barn (87 mi) and Pops 66 Soda Ranch (87 mi).
When is the best time to visit Great Salt Plains State Park?
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in September and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)