Ramona, Oklahoma, a small town with a big heart, offers visitors a genuine slice of rural American life. Founded in 1901 and named after a novel by Helen Hunt Jackson, this quaint community in Washington County has preserved its historical roots while embracing a friendly, close-knit atmosphere.
With a population of just over 500 residents, Ramona exemplifies the essence of small-town living. The town’s rich Native American heritage, coupled with its agricultural background, creates a unique cultural tapestry that captivates visitors. While Ramona may be small in size, it’s big on character, boasting a strong sense of community that welcomes travelers with open arms.
Ramona’s location in the rolling hills of northeastern Oklahoma provides a picturesque backdrop for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re interested in exploring local history, enjoying outdoor activities, or simply soaking in the tranquil ambiance, Ramona offers a refreshing escape that allows you to experience the authentic charm of small-town America.
Things to Do in Ramona
Ramona may be small, but it offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy:
Visit the Senior Activity Center in Ramona’s historic downtown to get a glimpse of the town’s past and interact with local residents.
Enjoy fishing at Double Creek, where you can relax and try your luck at catching local fish species.
Stop by the 4th Street Diner, a family-owned establishment offering home-style cooking. Savor all-day breakfast, burgers, salads, wraps, sandwiches, chicken baskets, coneys, and more.
For those looking for evening entertainment, the Ramona Cherokee Casino is open seven days a week. With over 450 electronic games, it offers an immersive experience with both classic and modern penny games. The casino complex includes The Ramona Grill, where you can enjoy sandwiches, burgers, griddle melts, salads, and southern staples. Live music can be found at The Watering Hole within the casino.
Experience small-town community spirit by attending a Caney Valley High School sports event. Watch as the tiny towns of Ramona, Vera, Ochelata, and Oglesby come together to support their unified sports program. Depending on the season, you can catch baseball, softball, basketball, or football games.
For a taste of local agriculture and artisanal products, visit Oklahoma Heritage Farm. Run by fifth-generation farmers, this charming establishment offers fresh produce, Oklahoma-made products, and a wide array of local specialties. Browse through dairy products like butter, milk, cheese, and eggs, or indulge in cottage bakery goodies. You’ll also find jams, jellies, local honey, heirloom seeds, bedding plants, kitchen and home accessories, exclusive OHF products, quality handcrafted items, and natural snacks and seasonings. It’s a perfect spot to experience the flavors and craftsmanship of the region.
Oklahoma Heritage Farm Fall Festival
Every year when autumn arrives, Ramona comes alive with the Annual Oklahoma Heritage Farm Fall Festival. This beloved event, held throughout the month of October, offers a quintessential small-town fall experience for visitors of all ages.
The festival takes place on a family-owned, fully-functioning farm, providing an authentic backdrop for seasonal festivities. Visitors can explore a sprawling pumpkin patch to find the perfect jack-o’-lantern candidate or decorative gourd. For those seeking a challenge, an 11-acre maze offers a fun and exciting way to test your navigation skills.
Hayrides provide a relaxing way to tour the picturesque farm grounds, allowing guests to soak in the crisp fall air and colorful foliage. The festival also features a variety of games suitable for all ages, ensuring that everyone in the family can join in the fun.
Animal lovers will delight in the petting zoo, where they can interact with friendly farm animals. This hands-on experience offers a great opportunity for children to learn about rural life and agriculture.
With its combination of traditional fall activities and the charm of a working farm, the Oklahoma Heritage Farm Fall Festival embodies the spirit of small-town America. It’s a perfect way to create lasting memories and experience the warmth of Ramona’s community during the most colorful season of the year.
Directions to Ramona
From Tulsa: Head northeast on US-75 N for about 30 miles. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes.
From Oklahoma City: Take I-44 E towards Tulsa for about 90 miles. Merge onto US-75 N and follow the directions from Tulsa above. This journey usually takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
From Bartlesville: Travel south on US-75 S for about 15 miles. The trip generally takes around 20 minutes.
Best Times to Visit
Spring and fall offer Ramona’s most pleasant weather, with April-May bringing wildflowers and September-October showcasing fall foliage. October stands out for the Annual Oklahoma Heritage Farm Fall Festival. Summer is warm and ideal for fishing, while winter brings cozy holiday charm. For the best mix of comfort and activities, visit in spring or fall, though Ramona’s small-town appeal is evident year-round.
Where to Stay in Ramona
Jarrett Farm Resort offers a unique and luxurious lodging experience in Ramona. This newly renovated resort farm provides a picturesque countryside escape on a historic and secluded property. The resort features 13 comfortable and elegant guest rooms, each decorated in a luxury boho and countryside style. Rooms are furnished with soft Serta mattresses, plush bedding, and high-end linens, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Amenities at Jarrett Farm Resort include a luxury resort-style pool and a catch-and-release fishing pond (guests should bring their own fishing equipment). The property also boasts a butterfly garden, onsite grills, a large community fire pit, and beautiful walking trails. For outdoor entertainment, visitors can enjoy tetherball, cornhole, and ladder toss.
This accommodation option allows guests to immerse themselves in Ramona’s rural charm while enjoying upscale comforts, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil retreat with modern amenities.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions
While Ramona offers its own small-town charm, several nearby attractions make for excellent day trips:
Bartlesville, just 15 miles north, is home to the Price Tower Arts Center, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Here, you can explore art exhibitions and enjoy panoramic views from the top floor.
About 30 miles southeast, Claremore offers the Will Rogers Memorial Museum, celebrating the life of Oklahoma’s favorite son. The town also features the J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum, housing an impressive collection of firearms and Western memorabilia.
Nature enthusiasts can head to Osage Hills State Park, roughly 25 miles northwest of Ramona. The park offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic picnic areas amidst rugged hills and dense forests.
These day trips provide a mix of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures, complementing Ramona’s quaint atmosphere with nearby attractions that showcase more of Oklahoma’s rich history and natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What county is Ramona in?
Ramona is located in Washington County, Oklahoma.
