Antlers is a charming town located in Pushmataha County, Oklahoma, in the southeastern part of the state. Located near the Kiamichi Mountains, Antlers boasts scenic beauty and a rich history, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With a population of approximately 2,500 residents, Antlers offers a small-town atmosphere with modern amenities and easy access to nature. The town’s name is derived from the numerous deer antlers found in the area by early settlers. Antlers is known for its friendly community, picturesque landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it an ideal destination for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Oklahoma.

Geography and Location

Antlers is located in the rolling hills of southeastern Oklahoma, approximately 185 miles southeast of Oklahoma City and 140 miles northeast of Dallas, Texas. The town is located near the foothills of the Kiamichi Mountains, which form part of the Ouachita Mountain range. The surrounding landscape is characterized by dense forests, clear streams, and abundant wildlife, providing opportunities for activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Antlers is located within the Ouachita National Forest, offering residents and visitors access to thousands of acres of protected wilderness and outdoor recreation areas.

Population and Area

With a population of around 2,500 residents, Antlers maintains a small-town atmosphere with a close-knit community. The town covers an area of approximately 4.2 square miles, including residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and green spaces. Despite its small size, Antlers offers essential amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, schools, and healthcare facilities to meet the needs of its residents. The town’s historic downtown area features charming storefronts, local businesses, and cultural attractions, reflecting its rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.

Major Landmarks and Attractions

Antlers is home to several major landmarks and attractions that showcase the town’s history and natural beauty. One of the notable landmarks is the Pushmataha County Courthouse, a historic building constructed in 1911 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The courthouse serves as a focal point for community events and gatherings and is a symbol of Antlers’ proud heritage. Other attractions include the Kiamichi Park and Lake, a popular recreational area offering fishing, boating, and picnicking facilities, and the Kiamichi Country Market, a local farmer’s market featuring fresh produce, crafts, and homemade goods. Antlers also hosts annual events such as the Kiamichi Owa-Chito Festival of the Forest, celebrating the town’s forestry heritage with live music, food vendors, and arts and crafts.

Climate and Weather Overview

Antlers experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Understanding the climate and weather patterns of Antlers is essential for residents and visitors to plan outdoor activities and prepare for seasonal changes.

Monthly Weather Statistics

To provide a comprehensive overview of the weather in Antlers, let’s examine the average temperature, precipitation, and number of sunny days for each month of the year.

Weather by Month

January

January is typically cool and damp in Antlers, with temperatures averaging around 49°F. Precipitation levels are relatively high, with an average of 3.14 inches of rainfall. Despite the cooler temperatures, January still offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing in nearby forests and parks. Visitors can also explore indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, and historical sites, or enjoy cozy evenings by the fireplace at local lodges and cabins.

February

February sees a slight increase in temperatures, with an average of 53°F. Precipitation levels remain high, with an average of 3.41 inches of rainfall. February is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking on area lakes and rivers, or exploring scenic trails in the surrounding wilderness. Visitors can also participate in cultural events and festivals celebrating the region’s heritage, or indulge in comfort food and local cuisine at restaurants and cafes.

March

March marks the beginning of spring in Antlers, with temperatures warming up to an average of 61°F. Precipitation levels continue to increase, with an average of 4.35 inches of rainfall. March is perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, picnicking, and nature walks in local parks and recreation areas, or birdwatching and wildlife photography in the surrounding forests. Visitors can also attend springtime events and festivals, or explore the town’s historic landmarks and architectural gems.

April

April brings mild temperatures to Antlers, with an average of 69°F. Precipitation levels peak in April, with an average of 4.89 inches of rainfall. Despite the wet weather, April offers opportunities for outdoor recreation such as horseback riding, ATV riding, and mountain biking on area trails, or fishing and boating on local lakes and streams. Visitors can also explore botanical gardens, arboretums, and nature preserves showcasing the region’s diverse flora and fauna.

May

May is pleasantly warm in Antlers, with temperatures averaging around 76°F. Precipitation levels remain high, with an average of 5.67 inches of rainfall. May is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing in nearby national forests and wilderness areas, or birdwatching and wildlife spotting along scenic drives and nature trails. Visitors can also enjoy water-based activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on area lakes and rivers, or relax with a picnic in a picturesque park.

June

June brings warmer temperatures to Antlers, with an average of 83°F. Precipitation levels begin to taper off, with an average of 5.47 inches of rainfall. June is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as swimming, tubing, and water skiing on area lakes and rivers, or exploring caves and caverns in the region’s limestone landscapes. Visitors can also attend summer concerts, outdoor markets, and community events, or cool off with ice cream and frozen treats at local shops and eateries.

July

July is the hottest month in Antlers, with temperatures averaging around 88°F. Precipitation levels decrease slightly, with an average of 3.99 inches of rainfall. Despite the summer heat, July offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation such as camping, fishing, and boating on area lakes and reservoirs, or exploring waterfalls and swimming holes in nearby natural areas. Visitors can also attend Fourth of July celebrations, fireworks displays, and summer festivals, or indulge in outdoor dining and barbecue cookouts.

August

August sees similar temperatures to July, with an average of 88°F. Precipitation levels continue to decline, with an average of 3.55 inches of rainfall. August is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding on scenic trails in the surrounding countryside, or golfing at local courses with stunning views of the landscape. Visitors can also explore historic sites, museums, and cultural attractions, or cool off with water sports such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing on area lakes and rivers.

September

September brings cooler temperatures to Antlers, with an average of 82°F. Precipitation levels increase again, with an average of 4.79 inches of rainfall. September is ideal for outdoor adventures such as hunting, fishing, and wildlife photography in the region’s forests and wildlife management areas, or exploring caves and caverns with guided tours. Visitors can also attend fall festivals, farmers’ markets, and pumpkin patches, or sample seasonal treats and beverages at local orchards and wineries.

October

October marks the arrival of fall in Antlers, with temperatures dropping to an average of 72°F. Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 4.29 inches of rainfall. October is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as leaf-peeping, hiking, and mountain biking on area trails surrounded by vibrant fall foliage, or birdwatching and nature walks in scenic parks and wildlife refuges. Visitors can also participate in harvest-themed events, corn mazes, and hayrides, or explore haunted attractions and ghost tours for Halloween.

November

November brings cooler temperatures to Antlers, with an average of 60°F. Precipitation levels decrease, with an average of 4.06 inches of rainfall. November is ideal for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing in the region’s forests and wilderness areas, or horseback riding and ATV riding on rugged terrain. Visitors can also attend holiday craft fairs, art markets, and Thanksgiving-themed events, or enjoy cozy evenings by the fire with hot cocoa and marshmallows.

December

December ushers in the winter season in Antlers, with temperatures averaging around 51°F. Precipitation levels decrease further, with an average of 3.66 inches of rainfall. December is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy winter sports such as ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in nearby parks and recreation areas, or sledding and tubing on snowy hillsides. Visitors can also attend holiday parades, tree lighting ceremonies, and Christmas markets, or shop for unique gifts and souvenirs at local shops and boutiques.

Natural Disasters

While Antlers generally experiences mild weather throughout the year, it is susceptible to occasional natural disasters such as severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding, especially during the spring and summer months. Residents and visitors should stay informed about weather forecasts and follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities to ensure their well-being during inclement weather conditions.

Recommended Activities

Regardless of the season, Antlers offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities for residents and visitors to enjoy throughout the year. From hiking and camping in the scenic mountains to exploring local museums and cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone to experience in this charming Oklahoma town. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors or relaxation amid picturesque landscapes, Antlers provides the perfect setting for memorable adventures and unforgettable experiences.