Noting River Parks’ inception as a recreation space between 11th and 31st streets, Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum on Tuesday marveled at its transformation during the past half century. 

“You think about the transformation of Turkey Mountain over the last 10, 15 years,” said Bynum, who spoke at the River Parks Authority’s 50-year anniversary celebration at the 41st Street Plaza. “You think about the Gathering Place, the greatest park in any city in America. You think about what’s happening at the lake that we’re building right now, that this generation of Tulsans is building, and the plans that we have to work in an unprecedented partnership between the City of Tulsa, the City of Jenks and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation to build a second lake further to the south. 

“You think about dozens of miles of trials…All of which has allowed this generation of Tulsans to benefit from the cumulative work over decades now of people realizing that this is our greatest natural feature as a city, and we have a responsibility to make the most of it. Each generation of Tulsans that has come along has found new ways to build upon what those who came before us did. That’s the story of River Parks over the last 50 years.” 

Since its founding in 1974, the River Parks Authority has enhanced outdoor recreation along the Arkansas River, spawning some of Tulsa’s most treasured traditions, such as a Fourth of July fireworks show in 1976 (known today as FreedomFest) and Oktoberfest in 1979. 

Turkey Mountain, one of the River Park Authority’s biggest trail systems, encompassed 147 acres when it was purchased in 1978. Today, the urban wilderness is spread over 600 acres.

“River Parks Authority is an invaluable partner in many ways…” said Sarah Inboden, Tulsa Regional Tourism’s vice president of experience and events. “The impact that the River Parks system has on individual tourism is incredible, as well. Eco-, nature- and wellness-tourism are all continuing to grow in popularity. At the River Parks Authority, you truly have something for everyone: relaxing hikes, thrilling mountain biking, fishing, water sports. We really have it all here."

The River Parks Authority has invested millions in paved trails, pavilions, playgrounds, and outdoor amenities along the river. In 2023, about 1.5 million people enjoyed the 26 miles of paved trails and 40 miles of wilderness trails at Turkey Mountain. 

County commissioner Karen Keith was on hand to celebrate the city-county partnership that helps make River Parks so successful. 

A highlight in the organization’s anniversary year will be the opening of Zink Lake and the “Big Dam Party” on Labor Day weekend, an event expected to bring tourists from across the state and region. 

“Tulsa is a beautiful city with a culture that supports outdoor recreation," River Parks CEO Jeff Edwards said in a statement. “Our trails are enjoyed daily, and it’s a great feeling to know that both locals and visitors find them to be a key asset for our city. We are committed to continuing to enhance Tulsa’s outdoor spaces, and I am excited for the next 50 years of Tulsa’s trail systems.”