About McSpadden Falls
McSpadden Falls is a named waterfall in Cherokee County, Oklahoma, located about 5.0 miles northeast of Tahlequah. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Tahlequah 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 35°58′39″ N, 94°55′31″ W (35.97750, -94.92515). Historical sources also record the name McFadden Falls. Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Steely Hollow (valley, under 0.1 mi), Steely Springs (spring, 1.2 mi), and Sparrow Hawk Mountain (summit, 1.6 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Lower Verdigris Falls (historical), 26 miles to the west.
More Photos
5 visitor photos are available on the Google Maps listing.
Weather at McSpadden Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at McSpadden Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Chicago time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of McSpadden Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Visitor Ratings
McSpadden Falls holds a 3.0 average from 6 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of McSpadden Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Steely Hollow — valley, under 0.1 mi
- Steely Springs — spring, 1.2 mi
- Sparrow Hawk Mountain — summit, 1.6 mi
- Cedar Hollow — valley, 1.8 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 35.97750, -94.92515. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near McSpadden Falls
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is McSpadden Falls located?
McSpadden Falls is in Cherokee County, Oklahoma, about 5.0 miles northeast of Tahlequah. Its coordinates are 35.97750, -94.92515 (35°58′39″ N, 94°55′31″ W).
What town is closest to McSpadden Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Tahlequah, OK, about 5.0 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near McSpadden Falls?
The closest is Lower Verdigris Falls (historical) (26 mi west). Others within reach include Webbers Falls (historical) (36 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows McSpadden Falls?
McSpadden Falls appears on the USGS Tahlequah 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.