Camping cabins near Cache, Oklahoma provide access to recreational opportunities across the rugged Wichita Mountains region. The area sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation with a semi-arid climate that brings hot summers and mild winters. Weather patterns can change quickly, with strong winds common in spring and fall months, requiring secure tent stakes and proper cabin insulation.
What to do
Hiking at Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: Access numerous trails directly from Camp Doris, where you can explore the rocky terrain and diverse ecosystems. "Hands down one of my top favorite areas to be in. Loads of wildlife and loads of great trails to hike," notes one visitor who regularly returns with family.
Wildlife viewing: Observe free-ranging bison, longhorn cattle, and prairie dogs throughout the refuge. "Saw geese, fox, Coyotes, Buffalo, prairie dogs and rattle snakes," reports a camper who stayed at Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area for five weeks.
Water recreation: Rent kayaks, paddle boards, or canoes at area lakes. "A nice beach and cordoned swim area, complete with restrooms and shower house (11a-7p)…lifeguards," describes a visitor to Lake Elmer Thomas, which also offers mini golf and disc golf courses.
What campers like
Scenic mountain vistas: Many cabin sites offer views of the surrounding landscape. "Some sites offer a view of Quanah Parker Lake," mentions a Camp Doris reviewer who recommends checking site maps carefully when making reservations.
Clean facilities: Fort Cobb State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathhouses and grounds. "White Catfish Cove is a nice and clean campground that host amazing views of the lake. The Bathrooms are modern and the showers do take quarters to operate. I think a 7 min shower is $1.50 but well worth the hot shower," notes one camper.
Military history: Fort Sill offers historical attractions near campgrounds. A visitor at Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area recommends: "Fort Sill has a lot of history to view. Great museums." The base includes Indian cemeteries and cultural exhibits related to the region.
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Potable water access varies by location. "At the time of this review (3/2020) there is NO potable water anywhere in the WMWR. An e.coli contamination in 2017 is still not resolved and any and all water is considered unsafe, including all streams and lakes. Bring in your own water, the closest store is at least 30 mins away," advises a Camp Doris visitor.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Weekends at WMWR are very popular beginning early in the camping season making it difficult to find open spots by Friday evening. But that doesn't keep people from trying late into the night," explains a regular visitor to the area.
Military training activity: Cabins on Fort Sill property experience artillery training noise. "Absolutely no warning on their site that there is training going on all around the CG. If you have a Veteran with PTSD like I do prepare him/her that they shoot howitzer rounds at any given time," warns a visitor to Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Quartz Mountain State Park Campground offers swimming areas ideal for children. "A well maintained park lots of shaded sites, picnic tables are the best. Views of the mountain are great. Bathhouse and toilets are new in most sites," reports a recent visitor.
Playground access: Select cabin sites near recreational facilities. "Walking distance to lake beach swim area and playground directly across from this site (great if you have kids)," recommends a camper who stayed at Fort Cobb's White Catfish Cove, site #16.
Wildlife education: Visit the refuge visitor center for educational programs. "The visitor center deserves at least an hour of time. Fabulous," states a camper who found the displays particularly informative for explaining the ecosystem to children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Burkburnett-Wichita Falls KOA, choose sites carefully based on shade and amenities. "We sprung for the middle option with electrical hook ups, not because we needed them but because after driving around we liked the look of that site a bit more. The deluxe sites they offered were taken but they had bbq grills and a more private tent area," suggests a visitor.
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "The RV pads are gravel and can be a little soft so bring some platforms to put the jacks down on," advises a camper at Fort Cobb State Park.
Gate access information: When staying on military property, understand entry procedures. "Do not use Letra Gate. It's closed. Ignore GPS and go to Apache Gate. Better yet set GPS for Apache Gate. It's the quickest route and you won't have to drive through the busy base and narrow roads," recommends a military base camper.