Beavers Bend Resort Park near Broken Bow, Oklahoma

© Inge Johnsson/Alam

A vivid scene from Beavers Bend. Beavers Bend State Park

To take in these incredible fall colours, we've come to Beavers Bend State Park, a 1,300-acre wilderness in the southeast corner of Oklahoma. It's a scene that may confound your expectations for the wilds of the 'OK' state. The 'bend' referenced in the park's name is a nearly 180-degree turn in Mountain Fork, the river that runs through the park.

Mountain Fork was dammed to form Broken Bow Lake, which is not just another draw for park visitors interested in water-related recreation but is also used as a reservoir and hydroelectric power generator. To really take in the autumn colour in Beavers Bend – or to enjoy it during just about any time of year – there are numerous hiking trails in the park and a train that chugs through some of the park's scenic areas as well.