The Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur, about 30 miles north of Ardmore, is one of Oklahoma's most-visited federal recreation areas. Cold mineral springs, Travertine Creek, and Veterans Lake make it a refreshing half-day or full-day excursion, especially in summer. The town of Sulphur also hosts the outstanding Chickasaw Cultural Center, the flagship museum of the Chickasaw Nation — well worth a few hours.
Lake Texoma, straddling the Oklahoma–Texas border about 25 miles southeast, is one of the largest reservoirs in the US and a major destination for striped bass fishing and sailing. The Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge on the upper arm of the lake is excellent for birdwatching. For a more urban day trip, Oklahoma City is a straightforward two-hour drive north on I-35, with Bricktown, the National Memorial, and the excellent Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark as highlights.