Central Campground, near Sulphur, Oklahoma, is a solid choice for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. With its picturesque setting and access to the refreshing Travertine Creek, it’s perfect for a quick dip or a leisurely swim after a day of hiking.

This campground is pet-friendly and offers a laid-back vibe, making it ideal for families and groups. Visitors rave about the excellent hiking trails nearby, and many appreciate the clean facilities, including toilets with running water. As one camper put it, “The star of the campgrounds is the spring-fed water. Cold and refreshing after hiking in the heat.”

While there are no electric or water hookups, the campground provides a rustic experience that many find appealing. The sites are surrounded by trees, offering a bit of privacy and a natural feel. Just keep in mind that it can get busy, especially during peak times, but the organized staff and clean environment help maintain a pleasant atmosphere. 

If you’re looking to explore, you’ll find plenty of trails to hike and beautiful scenery to soak in. Whether you’re setting up a tent or bringing an RV, Central Campground is a great spot to unwind and connect with nature.

## Overview

 Central Campground is a family-friendly primitive group campground found in the Platt Historic District of Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Nearby Travertine Creek provides several refreshing, spring-fed swimming areas to escape the summer heat. Other close attractions, such as Little Niagara and the Travertine Nature Center make this campground an ideal location for both beginner and experienced campers. Central Campground is only a few minutes away from the town of Sulphur. 
## Recreation

 Swimming and hiking are among the favorite activities at the campsite. A short walk takes you to Panther Falls, a refreshing swimming area. Nearby hiking trails meander along streams, past cool rushing waterfalls, and on to mineral and freshwater springs. 
## Natural Features

 The springs and streams in Chickasaw originate within a region of Oklahoma characterized by complex geology. Intense faulting, folding, uplift and erosion have combined to form a land surface of gently rolling hills dissected by streams. 
## Nearby Attractions

 Try Little Niagara, a favorite freshwater swimming hole. The Travertine Nature Center is a wonderful resource to view nature exhibits, meet live animals on display, and listen to rangers' presentations. A bison pasture is nearby, so bring the kids and cameras to see the beautiful animals grazing. 
## Charges & Cancellations

 Refunds will not be given due to inclement weather. Please read the official cancellation rules and policies of recreation.gov thoroughly before booking your campsite. Chickasaw National Recreation Area is not responsible for cancellation fees charged by recreation.gov.

Central Campground — Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Are you in need of a campground near Sulphur, OK? Sulphur is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Oklahoma camping adventure.

Sulphur

The Best Camping Near Sulphur, Oklahoma

Central is the smallest of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area campgrounds.  It is meant for groups but honestly, it is pretty average.  It is right next to the main road and just doesn't have a lot to offer.  There is a lot of open space and the campsites are pretty boring.

The positive is that it is very clean and the campground itself is surrounded by trees.  If you are desperate for a group campground then it will work, but it is not nearly as spectacular as The Point campground in the same National Recreation Area.

Of all of the Chickasaw NRA campgrounds, I like Central the least

For tent camping only, no electric hookups, no water hookups, there are toilets with running water but no showers and pets are allowed.

Great for tent camping and shallow water swimming.

The camp grounds were packed, but the staff was helpful and everything was very organized. The campgrounds were extremely clean.

Excellent hiking trails, though no opportunity to explore off the trails. The star of the campgrounds is the spring fed water. Cold and refeshing after hiking in the heat.

Busy, but Quiet

We wanted to end this terrible year (2020) and start the new one (2021) fresh....while camping. We stayed at Point campground in spot 47. Never camped here before and can’t wait to come back. We were so impressed at the space and layout of each site not to mention the spectacular design of main restrooms. Trip was planned for 12/28/20 thru 1/1/21 (started a new tradition and did same dates Palo Duro Canyon, TX last year) to start the new year off camping. This year the snow/ice bad weather chased us off early but will be sure to make this one of our first trips in the new year. 

Out with 2020 Hope 2021 better

Beautiful campgrounds. Excellent trails. Really nice area of Oklahoma. 

Exceptional 

My family has camped, or 'Day Camped,' for birthdays, distant  relative visits, etc. for years.
We try to avoid July 4th time frame...just too crowded.
Along ice cold Travertine Creek, quick dips or extended swims are mere steps away!
Plenty of hiking trails nearby as well.

Photos of Central Campground — Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Real photos from real campers