05-06-2025
Pawnee Nation plans to turn 20 acres into cultural, entertainment destination
The Pawnee Tribal Development Corporation has announced a multi-phased project plan to turn tribal land near the StoneWolf Casino into an area with an outdoor stage and amphitheater, RV Park and Campground and new hotel with a gaming floor among other features meant to celebrate Pawnee heritage.
With some construction set to being this year, the Pawnee Nation is calling it the StoneWolf Park Project, intended to 'transform 20 acres of tribal land into a premier cultural and entertainment destination for the Pawnee Nation and its visitors.'
'The StoneWolf Park Project represents a strategic investment in the future of the Pawnee people, aiming to enhance community resources, drive economic growth and boost tourism in central Oklahoma,' according to the press release. 'Each phase of development is designed to increase visitation to the adjacent StoneWolf Casino, while creating new opportunities for cultural celebration, business operations and hospitality.'
Phase 1, expected to begin this year will be construction of the outdoor stage to launch 'live entertainment with a foundational stage to host concerts and cultural events, eventually expanding to a full amphitheater.'
Phase 2 will include the RV Park and Campground to welcome 'tourists and event goers with modern RV hookups, camping amenities and outdoor hospitality infrastructure.'
A 7,000-square-foot office complex is planned for Phase 3, while Phase 4 will be a 15,000-square-foot event center described as a 'multipurpose space for pow-wows, ceremonial dances, community events and recreational bingo gaming.'
The final phase is a 30- to 60-room hotel with a gaming area and bar 'designed to extend guest stays and complement the StoneWolf Casino experience.'
'Additional infrastructure, including expanded parking, will support large events and increased traffic to the park, casino and lodging facilities,' the release reads. 'PTDC will lead the development through a newly established general contractor LLC, prioritizing tribal employment and local partnerships. The project will be funded through a combination of tribal investment, gaming revenue, grants and potential private partnerships – especially for tourism-oriented assets like the RV park.'
