Oklahoma State Parks Seek Restaurant Operators

Bidders must complete mandatory site visits to run food services at five state parks

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Bidders hoping to operate restaurants in five of Oklahoma's state parks will begin mandatory site visits this week, starting with Lake Murray State Park in Ardmore. The state is seeking operators to provide food services at these parks.

Why it matters

Securing quality food and dining options is an important part of the visitor experience at state parks. These site visits will allow potential operators to assess the facilities and requirements before submitting bids to run the park restaurants.

The details

The mandatory site visits are part of the bidding process for operating restaurants at five Oklahoma state parks: Lake Murray, Beavers Bend, Sequoyah, Osage Hills, and Roman Nose. Interested parties must tour the park facilities and meet with state officials before submitting their proposals.

  • The site visits began this week on February 17, 2026.
  • Bids for operating the park restaurants are due by March 31, 2026.

The players

Oklahoma State Parks

The state agency responsible for managing Oklahoma's network of public parks and recreation areas.

Bidders

Companies and individuals interested in operating the restaurants at the five state parks included in this bidding process.

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What’s next

The state will review all submitted bids and select the winning operators by April 30, 2026. The new restaurant contracts will begin on June 1, 2026.

The takeaway

This bidding process is an opportunity for experienced food service providers to partner with Oklahoma State Parks and enhance the visitor experience at these popular recreation destinations.