July 14, 2025
Lookout Kitchen Restaurants to Reopen in Oklahoma State Parks
The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department (OTRD) and the Lookout Kitchen (Lookout) have reached an agreement to conditionally reopen the Lookout restaurants in Oklahoma State Parks. The Lookout locations at Beavers Bend, Lake Murray, Robbers Cave, Roman Nose, and Quartz Mountain will reopen Tuesday, subject to the operating hours of each restaurant.
Pursuant to Lookout’s contract with the State, Lookout was permitted 30 days to become compliant following the suspension of restaurant operations inside state parks Tuesday, July 8. After ongoing discussions, the agreement to conditionally reopen the restaurants was reached Monday.
The agreement, among other things, puts in place a plan for Lookout to pay past due monthly payments owed to OTRD totaling $274,585.88. The total has increased from the $254,943.52 balance that was sent in a formal notice to counsel for Lookout on May 16, 2025. The additional $19,642.36 accounts for Lookout’s May monthly royalty and utility payments owed to OTRD.
Lookout’s first payment of the plan totaled $65,000 and was submitted to OTRD Monday. The remaining five installments are scheduled to be made between July 28 and November 15.
“This agreement to reopen Lookout restaurants inside our state parks is a positive development for our park guests as we work to minimize disruptions to park operations,” OTRD Executive Director Sterling Zearley said. “This agreed upon payment plan gives Lookout a pathway to compliance, while also providing a valuable amenity to state park visitors.”
We thank our guests for their patience during this time. OTRD will continue to strive to create positive experiences for those who visit Oklahoma State Parks.
-OTRD-