Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Chickasaw National Recreation Area, OK has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Chickasaw National Recreation Area and user-submitted reviews.
" When I arrived at the location to which my GPS directed me, I was a little concerned that there was just a building with bathrooms and three large dumpsters off to the side."
"There was so many campsites and they were all well maintained and flat. There is a huge flashing sign going into the area telling every adult to have a fishing/hunting license."
"I stayed in my hammock and buddy in his tent back in Nov 2019. Stopped just before a cold front with rain hit and built a fire."
"Amazing backcountry feel on Lake Texoma shores. Come prepared it's fully primitive but there are spots all up and down the Cross Timbers Trail you can either boat or backpack too."
"Cross Timber’s Trail is technical for the region and is a 14 mile point to point trail along the shore of Lake Texoma."
TravelerThe coordinates bring you to what looks like a driveway that has signs for no trespassing and beware of dogs. After looking at the map, it looks like that’s the only way to get back there, so I’m assuming the homeowner who shares that road put those signs to keep people away.
Guide When I arrived at the location to which my GPS directed me, I was a little concerned that there was just a building with bathrooms and three large dumpsters off to the side.
If I had a been brave enough to drive my little Mustang down the gravel path that was on the opposite side of the road leading away from the restrooms, I would have found waterfront campsites along the Blue River, large boulder, formations to climb, and beautiful views.
What I did, though, was continue down the road I had a been on and found a large dirt parking lot. There were fire pits and designated camping set up along one side of the parking lot, which seemed a little weird.
There was a gravel road on the opposite side of the parking lot that led to the RV camping and a couple of tent sites along that road, so I chose one. The campsite was secluded with several paths that lead down to the river. 
What I found to be the best part of this area was Hughes Crossing! It’s a waterfall that you can drive over. I did not attempt this in the mustang, but watched several trucks easily pass over.
Not only is there a beautiful little waterfall that also substitutes as a bridge, but the area is perfect for swimming. There is a bit of green algae, but it is otherwise clear and refreshing.
The only downside was the amount of trash that people had left. I think I might make it a new goal to try to carry out at least one or two grocery bags worth of other people’s trash so that I can hopefully leave places better than I found them.
ScoutGood spot. I stayed in my hammock and buddy in his tent back in Nov 2019. Stopped just before a cold front with rain hit and built a fire. Found a long sheet of tent to reflect the heat so had a great time hiking in.
GuideAmazing backcountry feel on Lake Texoma shores. Come prepared it's fully primitive but there are spots all up and down the Cross Timbers Trail you can either boat or backpack too.
ScoutThe water was amazing and clean. We went on a Tuesday so there wasn’t any one else there. We did some awesome exploring up and down the river. There was so many campsites and they were all well maintained and flat. There is a huge flashing sign going into the area telling every adult to have a fishing/hunting license. The fishing however is not good. We stayed for 3 days and fished the whole time with no luck. There’s a really neat little spot south of the dam with a rope swing.
LegendCross Timber’s Trail is technical for the region and is a 14 mile point to point trail along the shore of Lake Texoma. It’s on army Corps Of Engineers Land and there are many free walk/hike in first come first serve campsites. But this is my favorite!!!! It’s way up on a wooded peninsula along a spur that overlooks the lake. Birds flock over and it’s far enough away from the freeway that it’s quiet (with the exception of the occasional fishing boat). The trail is more technical than most in the vicinity and is a great place to do a gear shake down and train for those longer through hikes in more mountainous regions.
ScoutTo enter the grounds you need a hunting/fishing license or a 3day wildlife conservation passport. The passport is for any activity on the grounds, excluding hunting or fishing and they are $51 currently.
TravelerGorgeous.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Oklahoma, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Chickasaw National Recreation Area is Blue River Camp with a 4-star rating from 4 reviews.
TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Chickasaw National Recreation Area, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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