Silhouette of a Native American figure with feathered headdress, holding a staff at sunset.

Uncovering The History Behind Oklahoma’s Native American Tribes

When you step into Oklahoma, you’re stepping into a landscape shaped over centuries by Native American influence. Did you know that Oklahoma has the second largest population of Native Americans in the United States? Our land here is deeply connected to all the original inhabitants, with the Muscogee (Creek) Nation having a particularly significant presence in McIntosh County and around Eufaula Lake.


During your next trip to Oklahoma, consider learning more about the Native American tribes in the area. It’s bound to add another layer to your adventure, while teaching you about the important history of our state. Here’s what you’ll need to know about the tribes of Oklahoma, as well as the unique stories they tell, the relics you can view, and even a few legends you might hear. 

People in colorful Native American regalia playing a large drum with several drumsticks.

Oklahoma’s Native American Tribes

There are 39 federally recognized tribes within the state lines, with some of the most prominent being the Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Seminole, and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation tribes. These tribes are often referred to as the “Five Civilized Tribes”, who originally lived in the southeastern United States before being forcefully relocated to Oklahoma through the Trails of Tears. This journey, marked by hardship, survival, and resilience, forever changed not only their story but the state of Oklahoma as a whole.

The Story of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation

Often called the “Creek”, the Muscogee people once lived in what is now Georgia, Alabama, Florida, and South Carolina. They were known for their traditions and leadership amongst the Native American people. When Andrew Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act in 1930, the Muscogee people were forced westward, as were many other tribes. 


Thousands of Muscogee people died during the Trail of Tears, but those who survived rebuilt their nation in Oklahoma. The tribe’s capital now resides in Okmulgee, about an hour’s drive from Eufaula Lake. Despite their hardships, the Muscogee people are notorious for their strength and perseverance. They operate their own schools, courts, businesses, and programs, working to preserve their legacy and traditions for years to come.

Native American man wearing headdress, face paint, and vest, standing in a field, backlit by sunlight.

Historical Sites Near Eufaula Lake

While you’re exploring the area, there are several stops worth visiting. Each of these sites showcases some of the historical roots of the land, whether it be from the Muscogee (Creek) Nation or other local tribes. These places include:


  • Creek Nation Council House Museum: If you’re up for a drive, this location is full of Muscogee heritage. The museum itself is housed in the original Council House, built back in 1878. You’ll uncover artifacts, photographs, and exhibits discussing the history of the Nation.
  • Honey Springs Battlefield: A Civil War site, learn more about the Native American influence, with several Oklahoma Native Americans fighting on both sides.
  • Lake Eufaula Indian Journal: While not a stop, Eufaula’s local newspaper is one of the oldest in Oklahoma. The paper’s archives contain fascinating pieces of tribal history,  available for research at the Eufaula Area Museum.
  • Eufaula Area Museum: As previously mentioned above, this museum contains documents that detail the history of both the Muscogee Nation as well as other Indian reservations within Oklahoma. 

The Oklahoma tribes contain deep roots in storytelling. One legend tells of the estakwvnayv, better known as tie-snakes. These legends describe a hunter who ate forbidden animal brains and transformed into a snake, only to emerge when called by gunshot. The Horned Serpent is another legend, as a larger creature with the body of a serpent, but the horns of a stag. It’s said to live near water, and is considered harmless to people.


Other legends include individuals being turned into serpents, or other animals, for their wrongdoings. These stories aren’t just myths, as they reflect the Muscogee beliefs about balance, respect for taboos, transformation, and the spiritual power of nature.


While you’re on our property, you might just hear a local tale of the “Lake Eufaula Monster”, a mysterious creature that lives in the depths of the waters. Is it real, or just a playful legend? We’ll let you decide.

Legends and Lore

Three Native American dancers in colorful regalia at an outdoor event; mountains in background.

Stay with Eufaula Lake RV Park

Taking the time out of your busy schedule to learn more about Native American history helps to transform an ordinary trip into something more memorable. Whether you’re coming here to fish, hike, boat, or just explore, knowing the stories of our lands adds a special kind of richness that you can’t find anywhere else.


While you’re here, stay at Eufaula Lake RV Park, a convenient home base. We have all the amenities you could need during your stay, from spacious RV sites to a playground and basketball court. Did we mention we’re dog friendly? Bring your furry family members with you on your next adventure. With Eufaula Lake only five minutes away, experience world class fishing at its finest. Who knows, you might just catch a record-holding fish? 


Come and explore Eufaula Lake, and Oklahoma as a whole. You’ll find that every shoreline and hill tells a story.