05/26/2026
The development of Giles Park as a hub for outdoor learning is well underway. From several community clean up days, to the first phase of trails, and the relocation of the Pryor Creek Community Garden. Progress has been possible due to the overwhelming support from over a dozen community partners.
In April, the Mayes County Conservation District led multiple community clean up days that helped prepare Giles Park for the spring season. Community members painted the fence, removed debris from the old barn, and trimmed overgrown shrubs. The 3rd Platoon Gladiators from Thunderbird Challenge, Life Fellowship Church, multiple families, Becky Sams, Kathy LaValley, TSET IMPACT Network, and Jamie Walters were present to volunteer their time.
In May, the first phase of the Giles Park trail system was completed. Phase one of the crushed stone trail measures approximately .62 miles. The trail begins north of the Butterfly Way Station, leads visitors to the Artesian Well, up to the lake, then loops back to the starting point. This portion of the trail was supported through funding from the TSET IMPACT Network. Once all phases are completed, the full trail system will span just under three miles.
Another major milestone for Giles Park is the planned relocation of the Pryor Creek Community Garden, which serves the Digging In The Dirt after-school program. The current garden, located off Highway 20, provides students with approximately 4,500 square feet of learning space. The Pryor Creek City Council voted to approve the new lease at their April 7th Council Meeting. The new location will expand that area to nearly 20,000 square feet, creating additional opportunities for outdoor education and hands-on learning. Mayes County HOPE plans to pursue grant funding to support the relocation and future enhancements in this outdoor setting.
Every step forward at Giles Park has been a step toward fulfilling Tom Giles’ vision for the park, a place where children and families can learn, explore, and experience the natural outdoors. When Giles donated the land where the park now sits, he made it clear that he wanted it to be used as a place for outdoor learning and experiences. Today, the City of Pryor Creek and its community partners continue working diligently to ensure each project and improvement honors that vision while creating opportunities for future generations to enjoy and learn from the space.
If you choose to explore the trails, please be mindful while permanent signage is still being designed and installed. Park hours are from sunrise to sunset. Please stay on designated trails, keep dogs on a leash, and cyclists must yield to other users. No motorized vehicles, smoking, or va**ng are allowed, and please do not litter.
Thank you to our current partners: Mayes County Conservation District, TSET IMPACT Network, Mayes County HOPE, Northeast Tech, Pryor High School Innovation Center (Pryor Public Schools), Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Oklahoma Blue Thumb, Mayes County Master Gardeners, Life Fellowship Church, GRDA, MUB, and Mayes County Farm Bureau.
