Equestrian camping near Chickasaw National Recreation Area presents unique challenges, with most facilities lacking dedicated horse accommodations. The area sits within the Arbuckle Mountains region, characterized by rolling hills and cross timbers forest at elevations ranging from 850 to 1,100 feet. Seasonal temperature fluctuations are significant, with summer highs often exceeding 95°F and winter lows regularly dropping below freezing.
What to do
Trail riding at Lake Texoma: The COE Lake Texoma Platter Flats offers a "long equestrian trail that goes over to Lakeside Park across the lake that can also be hiked pretty easily that has a couple secluded spots to swim along the way. The trail is well marked and easy to follow," according to reviewer B.H.
Outdoor activities beyond horses: Lake Murray State Park has extensive recreation options beyond horseback trails. "We camp at Lake Murray State Park... Hiking, golf, fishing, great Lodge with a wonderful place to eat... Foggy Bottom," notes Norm B. about the diverse activities available.
Off-road adventures: For those interested in motorized trail riding rather than equestrian paths, Soggy Bottom Trails & Campground offers a completely different experience. One camper described it as a "trip into another world! Arrived just as mud bogging event begins for the weekend. Giant trucks, loud engines and enormous tires racing through mud bogs."
What campers like
Lake access: Campers frequently mention the water access at Elephant Rock Campground as a major draw. Jordan H. shares: "We stayed in elephant rock 2 site 44, we had a great view of the lake," though they noted needing "50 feet of hose just to hook up to the water."
Quieter seasons: Winter camping offers solitude that summer visitors miss. Jake notes: "Stopped here on the way south to San Antonio. There were only two RVs in the entire campground... Campsites are relatively close together and I can see how the place may get crowded in the summer, but it was almost completely vacant in December."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife encounters, particularly at lakeside campgrounds. One camper at Honey Creek mentioned having "a friendly goose for breakfast" visit their campsite during their stay.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings crowds to most campgrounds. Rachel D. notes about Lake Murray Resort: "It's VERY busy in the summer, but if you can arrive Thursday or early Friday, you shouldn't have a problem."
Facility limitations: Many campgrounds have basic amenities but lack specialized equestrian facilities. At Platter Flats, a reviewer notes the breakdown: "Sites: 26 family with electric and water, 35 equestrian with hookups, 3 equestrian tent sites no hook ups."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. For Platter Flats, "Reservations only: 877-444-6777 or recreation.gov. No camp host."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Lake Murray State Park provides numerous family recreation options. Christina S. reports: "It has lake access, great playgrounds for kids, close to town with everything you need."
Site selection strategy: At Honey Creek Campground, site preparation may be necessary. One reviewer noted: "We had to rake away all the brush from our campsite," suggesting families should arrive early to prepare their area.
Wildlife education opportunities: The lakefront settings create natural wildlife viewing opportunities for children. Multiple reviewers mention encounters with local wildlife, making these campgrounds informal nature classrooms.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: For RVers, Lake Murray provides varying levels of hookups. Brittany J. mentions: "There's a ton of great camp sites at Lake Murray. A lot of shaded sites and sites on the water."
Space between sites: Site spacing varies significantly between campgrounds. Crystal C. notes about Elephant Rock: "You can reserve online, but can't change site at the office. We camped in February and there weren't any other tent campers since it was off season."
Water connection planning: RVers should prepare with adequate hose length. Jordan H. shares this practical tip: "We didn't realize we would need 50 feet of hose just to hook up to the water," an important consideration when selecting your site at Elephant Rock Campground.
