When I first heard about OKANA – Oklahoma City’s first tribally-owned luxury resort with an incredible indoor waterpark – I couldn’t contain my curiosity. Being just a few hours from Dallas, I immediately was excited for a unique weekend getaway incorporating waterpark fun with the cultural aspects incorporated throughout.
After spending three full days exploring every corner of OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark, I’ll say this: The Chickasaw Nation has created something truly extraordinary. This goes beyond your typical waterpark resort, celebrating Indigenous culture and redefining what a resort experience can be in the heart of OKC.
You’ve got epic waterslides, an indoor AND outdoor waterpark, a huge arcade, great food items, and everything you could imagine you’d want in a resort. You also get the First Americans Museum right next door, a 10,000 square foot gallery featuring Native American tribes, artwork throughout the resort celebrating the indigenous culture, and small details that weave in cultural heritage and businesses.
What Makes OKANA Resort Stand Out?
Walking into OKANA Resort feels different and there’s a meaningful reason why. This isn’t just another corporate hotel chain; OKANA is proudly owned and operated by the Chickasaw Nation, bringing authentic Indigenous hospitality to life in spectacular fashion.
Even the name tells a story—”OKANA” combines the Chickasaw words for water (“oka”) and friend (“na”), perfectly capturing the resort’s welcoming spirit and waterpark focus.
There’s a lot to be excited about:
- 404 rooms and suites (with some great family friendly bunk style rooms for the kids)
- 100,000 square feet of indoor waterpark excitement + an outdoor waterpark
- 11 different pools between indoor and outdoor areas
- 13 dining outlets ranging from quick bites to upscale experiences
- Full-service spa with couples and individual treatments
- Steps away from the acclaimed First Americans Museum
- An art gallery onsite with opportunities to support First American artists
The resort’s architectural design thoughtfully incorporates elements of Chickasaw heritage throughout, from subtle patterns in the carpeting to magnificent artwork in the lobby.
Thrilling Waterpark Attractions for Everyone
Of course OKANA Resort stands out for its massive 100,000-square-foot indoor waterpark. With year-round climate control, it offers endless aquatic adventure regardless of Oklahoma’s weather outside.
A Diverse Mix of Waterslides
OKANA doesn’t just offer one or two basic slides – they’ve created a comprehensive collection that caters to different thrill levels:
- Tidal Twist: This bowl slide delivers high-energy fun with its 5-person raft experience, making it perfect for families or friend groups wanting to share the excitement
- Wild Rapids: The signature water coaster combines traditional sliding with unexpected uphill sections powered by water jets – the changing colored lights throughout add a mesmerizing visual element
- Whiplash: Don’t let the moderate rating fool you – this duo tube slide features a backward drop element that caught me completely by surprise!
- Racing Rapids: Perfect for competitive types, this multi-lane slide lets you race friends and family with a digital clock at the bottom to track your times
Beyond the Slides
What impressed me most about OKANA’s waterpark was the thoughtful variety of non-slide attractions:
- High Tide Wave Pool: This isn’t your standard gentle wave pool – it features programmable patterns that create everything from peaceful ripples to surprisingly powerful swells
- Enchanted River: Forget lazy – this adventure river features unexpected currents, interactive elements, and surprise water features that keep you engaged throughout
- Splash Zone: A multi-level play structure perfect for younger visitors with smaller slides, water cannons, and a giant tipping bucket that delights kids and adults alike
Something for Everyone
The waterpark thoughtfully segments experiences for different ages and preferences:
- Thrill-seekers will appreciate the 54-inch height requirement slides that deliver genuine excitement
- Adults can escape to Soothing Springs, the 21+ hot tub area that provides a peaceful retreat
- Beginners can test their wave-riding skills at the Flow Rider surf simulator with patient instructors who make the learning process fun
- Young children have dedicated shallow areas with gentle fountains and mini slides designed specifically for their safety and enjoyment
The indoor waterpark operates year-round with consistent hours (Sunday-Thursday 10AM-8PM, Friday-Saturday 10AM-9PM), while the outdoor OKANA Beach lagoon opens seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day with additional pools and sunbathing areas.
Diverse Dining Options Throughout the Resort
OKANA Resort truly shines in its dining variety, with options for every meal and craving. Two standout restaurants anchor the experience: Jack Rabbit, an Irish-American gastropub offering everything from hearty breakfast buffets to refined dinner options like IPA-battered fish and chips and bourbon butter chicken, and Chido Tacos + Tequila, a vibrant Tex-Mex spot featuring outstanding margaritas, sizzling wagyu fajitas, and shareable tres leches cake. The craft cocktail programs at both venues deserve special mention for their creativity and quality.
Beyond these signature restaurants, OKANA offers impressive convenience with a coffee shop serving specialty drinks and pastries, an ice cream parlor perfect for sweet treats, and multiple dining options right within the waterpark area so you never need to change out of your swimsuit for lunch. The resort’s 13 dining outlets ensure you’re never far from satisfying your appetite, from quick snacks to memorable meals.
Unwind at the Spa and Luxurious Hotel Rooms
The Spa at OKANA
After all that waterpark fun, we treated ourselves to a couples massage in OKANA’s stunning spa. The couples treatment room truly stands out with its built-in fireplace, chocolatey walls, and soft lighting that instantly creates a romantic atmosphere. I opted for the CBD massage while my husband chose their “sampler” massage—a blend of aromatherapy, Swedish, targeted deep tissue, and warm stones that provided him with a comprehensive experience.
Beyond what we experienced, the spa offers signature treatments like The OKANA Massage featuring warm sand pouches inspired by Hawaiian Lomi-Lomi techniques, and The OKANA Facial that harnesses the power of marine collagen. The gender-separated locker rooms each feature private saunas – a perfect pre-treatment relaxation opportunity that I took full advantage of before my massage.
Accommodations
The 404 rooms and suites at OKANA Resort impressed me with their spaciousness and thoughtful design. Even the standard rooms offer ample space, incredibly comfortable king-sized beds, and oversized televisions perfect for movie nights after a busy day of activities.
I really enjoyed how they incorporated Indigenous artwork throughout and one thing that got me super excited was the Indigenous owned peppermint sage bath products by Mother Earth that smelled heavenly. It really added the luxurious touch with the comfort of knowing the way that the incorporation into the hotel was supporting an Indigenous owned business.
The rainfall showers provide a spa-like experience in your own bathroom, and the blackout curtains ensure you can sleep in if you desire. One practical aspect I appreciated was the convenience of having dining options just an elevator ride away.
Playful Fun at OKANARAMA Arcade
Beyond the waterpark, OKANA Resort offers exciting entertainment at its impressive 17,000-square-foot OKANARAMA Arcade. During my visit, I was immediately drawn to the variety of games ranging from the interactive World Football Pro soccer setup (where you kick a real ball at a digital goalkeeper) to the immersive Halo: Fireteam Raven stations with their curved screens and futuristic blue LED lighting.
The arcade features over 80 different games appealing to all types of players—competitive guests will enjoy the LED-lit air hockey tables, while prize hunters can test their skills at the colorful claw machines filled with plush toys.
Throughout our stay, we discovered other entertainment options beyond the arcade, including evening bar areas with live music on select nights, outdoor firepits perfect for evening relaxation, and a fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment. These diverse options ensured there was always something entertaining to do, even after we’d dried off from the waterpark.
How to Make the Most of Your Stay
After three full days exploring OKANA Resort, I’ve gathered some practical tips to help you maximize your experience:
Best Times to Visit
- Weekdays (Sunday-Thursday) offer significantly lighter crowds, particularly in the waterpark
- Late afternoons and evenings (after 5 PM) see reduced waterpark attendance as families with young children typically leave
Packing Essentials
- Multiple swimsuits (having a dry option for your second session is wonderful)
- Water shoes for comfortable navigation throughout wet areas
- A light cover-up that can transition from waterpark to casual dining
Suggested Itinerary for a Two-Night Stay
Day 1:
- Morning: Check in and immediately head to the waterpark to enjoy lighter morning crowds (might as well take advantage of
- Afternoon: Schedule Flow Rider lessons to build skills
- Visit the Exhibit C Art Gallery to see the different artworks by Native American artists
- Evening: Dinner at Chido Tacos + Tequila for a lively atmosphere
Day 2:
- Morning waterpark session (and Flow Rider session because you’ll improve so much by coming back again)
- Nap in Your Room because Day 2 of Waterpark will get to you
- Afternoon: Return to waterpark for more fun and try different slides
- Evening: Explore the OKANARAMA Arcade
- Dinner at Jack Rabbit
Day 3:
- Morning: Spa treatments to refresh tired muscles
- Final Afternoon: Visit the First Americans Museum
- Evening: Check out with plans to return
- Explore other fun things to do in OKC
Check Out These Related Articles About OKANA OKC
If you’re planning a trip to OKANA OKC, I’ve got a few more articles you’ll want to check out to help you make the most of your visit:
Final Thoughts: Is OKANA Resort Worth Your Visit?
After thoroughly experiencing what OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark has to offer, I can confidently recommend it for several different types of travelers:
- Families will appreciate the balance of kid-friendly attractions and adult amenities
- Couples seeking a blend of adventure and romance will find surprising opportunities for both
- Friend groups can enjoy competitive fun and evening socializing without the hassle of driving everywhere
The resort’s thoughtful integration of Chickasaw culture elevates it beyond just another waterpark hotel, creating a genuinely unique destination in Oklahoma City’s hospitality landscape. I had a blast! I loved how unique the attractions were and how even though the park’s main clientele is families with kids, I found myself having a blast with more than enough things to do catered to us grown ups without our kids.
Last Updated 3 days ago by Jessica Serna | Published: March 19, 2025
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