Gloss Mountain State Park
Fairview, OK
Flat-topped red mesas streaked with glittering gypsum rise above the prairie, with a steep trail to the top for far views. Go in the cooler hours, wear good shoes and carry water, as the climb is exposed.
Gloss Mountain State Park lies north of Fairview on Highway 412, about 65 km (40 miles) west of Enid. The mesas contain a lot of selenite gypsum, which shimmers like glass and gave the area its name; it dates back to an ancient inland sea that once covered western Oklahoma. The most popular route, the Cathedral Mountain Trail, starts at the parking lot, climbs to the top of the mesa and crosses its plateau, with views of the valley and Lone Peak.
Admission is free, and there are restrooms, picnic areas with grills, and drinking water; dogs are allowed. For hiking the park is open from sunrise to sunset, but vehicle access is only possible during set daytime hours (as of October 2026). There is no camping in the park, but private operators nearby offer it. The climb is exposed to the sun; bring water and sturdy shoes.
- Nearest town
- Fairview, OK
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 36.3667, -98.5788
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
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Campsites nearby
- Staff AreaCampsite10 mi from Gloss Mountain State Park
- William's Scout ReservationCampsite10 mi from Gloss Mountain State Park
- Blue Granite RV ParkMotorhome stopover16 mi from Gloss Mountain State ParkMotorhomes
- Motorhome stopoverMotorhome stopover19 mi from Gloss Mountain State ParkMotorhomes
- Motorhome stopoverMotorhome stopover20 mi from Gloss Mountain State ParkMotorhomes
- Riverside RV ParkMotorhome stopover22 mi from Gloss Mountain State Park · 50 pitchesMotorhomesElectricity
All campsites in Oklahoma · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Gloss Mountain State Park?
Gloss Mountain State Park is in Fairview, OK, at GPS 36.3667, -98.5788. It is about 86 mi from Oklahoma City.
Can you camp near Gloss Mountain State Park?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Staff Area, about 10 mi away; within 25 mi there are 6 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
What is there to see near Gloss Mountain State Park?
Places worth a stop nearby: Great Salt Plains State Park (35 mi), Guthrie Historic District (73 mi), Pops 66 Soda Ranch (85 mi) and Arcadia Round Barn (85 mi).
When is the best time to visit Gloss Mountain 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)