Doris Campground sits within the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge at elevations between 1,600-2,464 feet. The area experiences temperature fluctuations ranging from summer highs in the 90s to winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Refuge camping zones are situated along Quanah Parker Lake with granite mountains creating a unique microclimate that supports over 50 mammal species and 240 bird species.
What to do
Hiking diverse trails: Access multiple trail options directly from Camp Doris, ranging from family-friendly walks to challenging climbs. "There are numerous other trails in other areas a short drive away. Carry in all your water with bovine (longhorn, buffalo) covering virtually all areas of the refuge," notes Brad N.
Bicycle paved routes: Explore quiet, paved roads around Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area with minimal traffic. "Bicycling the Artillery Range perimeter roadways on base, coyote dash across in early morning hours," shares Dave V. The area offers limited off-road biking but extensive paved options.
Scale Quartz Mountain: Climb the challenging rock formations at Quartz Mountain State Park for panoramic vistas. "We climbed Quartz Mountain on the first day. There is not a well-marked trail, you just have to try and find the path of least resistance and not die. The view is well worth the hike," reports Janna R., noting hiking shoes are essential due to slick rock surfaces.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Observe free-roaming herds throughout the refuge areas. "There are plenty of longhorns, buffalo, elk, prairie dogs, and hundreds of species of birds throughout the park," explains one camper. Doris Campground positions visitors for dawn and dusk wildlife activity.
Scenic lake access: Many campsites at Doris Campground provide direct water access. "Some sites offer a view of Quanah Parker Lake. All sites at Doris are walk in," notes Rebecca A. Sites 1, 2, 5, 10, 11, 13, and 15 in Loop A are particularly recommended for water views.
Stargazing opportunities: The distance from urban areas creates excellent night sky viewing conditions at Quartz Mountain State Park Campground. "The night sky viewing was pretty good. I wish they would upgrade their lighting to be more dark sky friendly. This would be an great location for that," mentions Shana D.
What you should know
Water supply issues: Plan accordingly for potable water access at Doris Campground. "Please note that 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," warns Rebecca A.
Reservation systems: Different campgrounds have varying reservation policies. "You can reserve a spot online but they will not save your spot for you. I visit yearly and have never gotten the spot I reserved," shares Danny L. about Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites on the outer loops for better privacy and views. "I don't particularly like the sites on the inside of the loops. Water view sites are circled on the map. I would be happy with these," advises Roger W., who recommends avoiding sites that back up to each other, like sites 7 and 9.
Tips for camping with families
Glamping options: For luxury glamping close to Cache, Oklahoma, consider Ultimate Wichita Mountains Luxury Glamp or the yurts at Quartz Mountain State Park. These accommodations provide comfortable alternatives to traditional tent camping while maintaining proximity to nature.
Beach activities: Take advantage of sandy shorelines for water play. "The beachfront was vast and amazing I could easily say this was what made it worth the trip. You could walk the beach, get in the water or enjoy a picnic through one of the shaded areas," recommends Crystal C. about Quartz Mountain.
Water recreation rentals: Access affordable paddle sports equipment at several locations. "Watersport rentals: paddle boards, canoes, kayaks, pontoon boat" are available at Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area according to Dave V., making it easy to explore waterways without transporting your own equipment.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling and hookups: Select campsites based on your specific needs. "We stayed in the Mountain View campground which has concrete pads and didn't have to level our rig at all. Electric and water and steps to the flush bathroom that has a shower in it," notes Jennifer O. about Quartz Mountain State Park Campground.
Campground spacing: Consider timing your visit during off-peak periods for better site selection. "We camped in December, so we practically had the entire place to ourselves. Some sections had nice sized campsites and some sections were literally stacked on top of each other. I can imagine this place is cramped in the summer time," observes Shana D.
Full hookup availability: For RVers needing complete services, Pecan Grove RV Resort provides comprehensive hookups. "Sites are large! Amenities are clean!" shares Samantha S. The resort also offers "Propane on site, wifi, dog run, showers/bathrooms, laundry, & storm shelter" according to Katelyn A., making it suitable for extended stays.
