Ghost light

The Ghost Light is a natural phenomenon near Quapaw, Oklahoma, in which white or yellow glowing spheres move through the night sky. These lights travel at different speeds and heights, sometimes splitting into multiple orbs or shifting to orange tones.

Native Americans first reported these lights in the 1800s, and they have been documented continuously near the Missouri-Oklahoma border since the early 1900s. The long record of sightings suggests the phenomenon has remained consistent across generations.

The lights have become part of local storytelling and bring people together to watch and discuss what they witness. Residents talk about the phenomenon as something woven into the fabric of their region, much like a local landmark.

The best viewing happens after sunset along East 50 Road near Quapaw, where observation areas are set up for visitors. Plan to spend time allowing your eyes to adjust to the darkness and be patient, as the lights may not appear every night.

Witnesses sometimes report the lights vanishing completely and then reappearing suddenly in a different location, making their movement patterns unpredictable. These sudden shifts and gaps in visibility add to the mystery and keep observers guessing about what causes the display.

GPS coordinates: 36.94390,-94.64300

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:00