Rig activity rises across Oklahoma
Oklahoma drilling picked up again this week. The state added two rigs, lifting the total to 42. Crews focused on western Oklahoma, where operators continue to chase liquids-rich rock. Field chatter pointed to activity in the Cana Woodford and Granite Wash. STACK and SCOOP also showed steady work.
The national count inched higher as well. Baker Hughes reported 548 active rigs across the United States. Oil held at 418 rigs. Gas added one to reach 121. Offshore work improved to 17 platforms. The trend signals a slow, durable recovery.
How Oklahoma stacks up to neighbors
Texas still leads the pack with 237 rigs. That number slipped by one. New Mexico gained two to hit 102. North Dakota held 28. Colorado moved to 15 with a one-rig gain. Kansas rose to 17, according to the Red Top Rig Report. Louisiana dropped to 37.
Year over year, the U.S. sits 37 rigs lower than last fall. Oil counts trail last year, while gas shows a small lift. Even so, Oklahoma keeps pace. Service yards report improving backlogs. Trucking, mud, and wireline crews stay busy on core pads.
What the bump means for Oklahoma
More rigs mean more local paychecks. Royalty owners also track the uptick. Western counties feel the boost first. Compressors, water haulers, and rental gear all see calls. Midstream planners watch volumes and plan tie-ins. Operators continue to push efficiency. Faster spud-to-TD cycles help hold costs down.
Pricing still drives decisions. WTI trades in a tight band. Henry Hub eased this week. The Waha basis improved as pipeline work wrapped up. Producers favor high-return zones and hedge against price dips. Winter demand could support gas runs into early 2026.
Outlook: firm footing into winter
Oklahoma shows steady momentum. Companies target core zones and protect cash flow. If prices hold, the state could add a few more rigs. Supply chains look ready. Crews stand by for new pads. The near-term path points to measured growth and reliable output.