Oklahoma’s Backwards River – The Only One of Its Kind

This summer, if you were lucky enough to get some time off, you may have had a chance or two to float one of the rivers here in Oklahoma. In almost all of the rivers, the way looks the same. But one river here runs against the current - both figuratively and literally.

Oklahoma's Backwards River A.K.A. The Poteau River

The Poteau River (pronounced p-oh-t-oh) in eastern Oklahoma stands out against all 78,603 miles of river that runs through the sooner state because it is the only river to run from south to north.

A restoration Ecologist recently explained in an interview that the Poteau River runs this way because of Arkansas... in a way.

"You get a western flow out of Arkansas. Then, it hits a ridge of hard rock here in Oklahoma and runs north."

-Dr. Steven Patterson, Poteau, OK 

Mr. Patterson also explained that the Poteau river was the prime place for really enjoying Oklahoma's display of fall in the forest.

How Can You Enjoy the Poteau River?

Although the Poteau River isn't usually a hotspot for floating like the other several rivers in the state, it's definitely a hotspot for tube fishing, canoeing, kayaking and other activities. Something tells me flowing against the current isn't easy, even for Mother Nature.

The Poteau River also runs right through the best part of Oklahoma to see fall foliage, when the leaves changing finally does roll in.

@djstealth Replying to @HADLEE #Poteau #Oklahoma #SmallTown #Travel ♬ CALMNESS - MVTRIIIX & Kingpin Skinny Pimp

The miles of dogwood trees as well as redbud, wild cherry, northern spruce and Ponderosa pine trees lining the river make the sight an absolutely breathtaking one.

How Do I Get to The Poteau River?

The best way to get a look for yourself is to head to Wister Lake in Wister, Oklahoma near McAlester. There, you'll find access to boat ramps that can lead you through the Poteau River, among other amenities like concessions, playgrounds, cabins and more.

Even if you just want to enjoy the scenery and say you've been to the "backwards river of Oklahoma," you can hang out in your own little paradise on some of the 115 miles of shoreline.

If you do decide to float north, make sure you tell us how the trip was!