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Camping near Chickasaw National Recreation Area

410 Reviews

Campground options within Chickasaw National Recreation Area in southern Oklahoma range from developed sites with modern amenities to more rustic experiences along Lake of the Arbuckles. Buckhorn Campground, one of the most popular areas, features four distinct loops with both reservable and first-come sites for tents and RVs. The Point Campground offers additional camping with lakefront access, while Rock Creek Campground provides more secluded options. Several campgrounds include electric hookups, water access, and picnic facilities, particularly in Loops C and D of Buckhorn where many sites accommodate both tent and RV camping.

Road conditions throughout the recreation area remain well-maintained, though some campsite driveways can present challenges for larger vehicles. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently reaching the 90s, making waterfront sites particularly desirable. As one visitor noted, "The lake was as warm as bath water on June 15th, which was surprising...days were 90s with nights in the 70s and cloudless skies." Campground availability follows seasonal patterns with Loop C requiring reservations, while Loop D typically operates on a first-come basis. Camping season peaks from March through November, though some campgrounds like The Point remain open year-round. Cell service varies throughout the area, with better coverage near the town of Sulphur than at the lakeside campgrounds.

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, particularly for fishing access and scenic views. The park's natural springs and waterfalls provide popular swimming spots, though they can become crowded during summer months. "There are great waterfalls to play in nearby for free that put Turner Falls to shame," mentioned one camper. Many campsites offer good spacing and privacy, especially in the wooded sections of the campgrounds. Bathroom facilities throughout Chickasaw National Recreation Area earn praise for cleanliness, with several campgrounds featuring modern showers—uncommon in many national park settings. Wildlife sightings add to the camping experience, though visitors should be prepared for encounters with various creatures. Quiet weekday camping contrasts with busier weekend periods when powerboats and personal watercraft create more activity on Lake of the Arbuckles.

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Best Camping Sites Near Chickasaw National Recreation Area (134)

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Recent Camping Photos near Chickasaw National Recreation Area

127 Photos of 134 Chickasaw National Recreation Area Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Chickasaw National Recreation Area

410 Reviews of 134 Chickasaw National Recreation Area Campgrounds

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 2, 2025

    Eisenhower State Park Campground

    Nice park overall. Clean and secure.

    I’ve been here several times over the last few years (latest oct 2025). I like the hiking trails and the amazing beauty of the outdoors. The lake is pretty and probably fun to fish or boat on. I didn’t do this while I was there. There is a small onsite store. The roads are maintained and paved and the campsites are very nice sized with long parking spots for campers. Some tent sites have power and some even have large screen shelters. The park is monitored by state police throughout the day and night and that is good to keep the trouble away.

  • Hope M.
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Blue River Campground

    Love Camping here

    I come here alot now with my husband or best friend. My husband and I fish but it’s nice to get away and just to go to the woods and fish.

  • Wesley H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Blue River Camp

    Very peaceful

    Easy access for our class c, very scenic river water falls

  • c
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Texoma Shores RV Resort

    Beautiful lake texoma

    Nice clean camping area clean showers hot water nice boat ramp

  • Tyler S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2025

    Turner Falls Park

    Turner falls

    Fun area with waterfall, camping, swimming, and zip lines. You have to pay to enter the park and than you have access to everything inside including restaurants and stores. It can get real loud in here as people tend to have music playing loud ALL DAY. The trails are awesome, there is even a cave in an off the trail area back behind the bathrooms at the waterfall. Stay in the wash out area and hike up a ways and than off to your left you climb this up hill rock boulder up to the cave. I'd ask for directions. There are trails back there to that take you up the creek above the waterfall. It's a big area

  • Tyler S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2025

    Blue River Campground

    Blue River camping

    This place is a gem and is the only natural aquifer left in Oklahoma. You have to have fishing licenses to enter. I thought that was very strange provided we only camp to camp and swim.

  • Erin-Frannie R.
    May. 30, 2025

    The Point Campground — Chickasaw National Recreation Area

    Surprised the tent sites were empty.

     We've never been to Chickasaw National Recreation Area so I tried to reserve a site online but they were ALL booked (Memorial Day Weekend). We drove down Thursday night to try to snag a FCFS site. We drove first to Buckhorn but almost every site was full. This seems like the popular grounds for campers with kids. A bit active for our taste so we made the 30 minute drive over to The Point expecting the same. We found all of the tent sites at The Point were empty. I don't know why, the energy was much calmer and quieter. We walked around to found the best site for us. By Friday night the RV sites were all full but there were only a few other tent campers. On the topic of RV’s… The generator hours are 7AM-9AM, 7PM-9PM. We didn’t hear a single generator over our 4 days there. 

    The tent sites are walk-in, not too far from the parking spots. Each are pretty secluded and quiet until Saturday when one of the tent sites decided to play their music loud enough for half of the grounds to hear all day long. There is NO cell or internet signal other than one sweet spot by the bathrooms, so you may get a surge of texts and missed call notifications while you're doing your business. 

    The grounds are very well kept, bathrooms clean, roads clear, and minimal trash at the sites. The timed showers are solar heated and the water temp was pleasant. 

    When the sun starts setting the wildlife start to appear. 3 deer passed right by our campsite with no fear. And I watched a family of squirrels having a good day in a tree we had our tarp tied to. We’ll be going back to experience all of the touristy stuff that we missed due to last minute planning.

  • Tristan F.
    May. 23, 2025

    Romulus Lake

    Yay Camping

    Great camping, lake is great for canoeing or kayaking.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 15, 2025

    Soggy Bottom Trails & Campground

    Trails mean offroading!

    What 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. Lots of beer, music, laughter and kids. If you join in , bring ear plugs and expect to get good and dirty. Takes me back to my redneck roots.

Guide to Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Camping near Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Oklahoma, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy nature.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. One camper mentioned, "Great hiking in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, and close shopping in Sulphur," highlighting the area's accessibility to both nature and amenities.
  • Fishing and Boating: The lakes and rivers are perfect for fishing and boating. A review noted, "Boating and fishing are in the backyard!" which shows how close you are to water activities.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One visitor shared, "The bison herd was in the East pasture and was easily accessible," making it a fun experience for animal lovers.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A review from Buckhorn Campground stated, "Facilities are super clean and a great spot for families."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. One reviewer at The Point Campground said, "Sites aren't all packed together so you get a little privacy compared to some other places I've stayed."
  • Natural Beauty: The scenic views are a big draw. A camper at Turner Falls Park remarked, "Turner Falls is one of the most beautiful parks in the state."

What you should know:

  • Reservations Required: Many campgrounds, like Buckhorn Campground, require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A visitor noted, "Reservations are required," so plan ahead.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A review for Cold Springs Campground mentioned, "Our site was infested with ticks," indicating that nature can come with its challenges.
  • Crowded During Holidays: Expect larger crowds during holiday weekends. One camper at Rock Creek Campground said, "Pretty crowded; the camp spots are pretty close to each other."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. A review for Elephant Rock Campground mentioned, "Beautiful park with lots of trees, nice place to swim, walking trails, and a playground for the littles."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One family enjoyed their time at Lake Murray State Park saying, "So many trails, sites on the lake, playgrounds, marina, beautiful lake!"
  • Pack Essentials: Bring everything you need, as some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A camper at Blue River Campground advised, "Just remember… take with you what you brought and a little extra that someone left."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at The Point Campground noted, "Driveway lengths vary dramatically, so check the details!"
  • Use Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a lifesaver. A camper at Buzzards Roost mentioned, "Very clean bathrooms and showers."
  • Arrive Early: Get to your campground early to secure a good spot. A visitor at Lake Murray State Park said, "You do need to get there early to grab a good spot."

Camping near Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Oklahoma, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a little planning and the right information, you can have a fantastic experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which campgrounds are available at Chickasaw National Recreation Area?

Chickasaw National Recreation Area offers several campgrounds with varied amenities. Buckhorn Campground Loop C provides reservable sites with full hookups, restrooms, and showers, plus stunning sunset views over Lake of the Arbuckles. The Point Campground features walk-in tent sites with shade and level platforms. Other options include Rock Creek Campground with large, tree-covered sites; Cold Springs Campground (first-come, first-served with credit card payment); Central Campground for groups; and Guy Sandy Campground. Buckhorn Loop D offers first-come, first-served sites with water and electric hookups. Most campgrounds provide access to hiking trails and water recreation opportunities throughout the recreation area.

Is camping available near Little Niagara Falls in Chickasaw National Recreation Area?

Cold Springs Campground is the closest camping option to Little Niagara Falls in Chickasaw National Recreation Area. This family-friendly campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with an automated credit card payment system. The proximity to Little Niagara Falls makes it extremely popular, especially on weekends when the area gets busy with families enjoying the creek and falls. Children can play in the water while adults supervise from nearby camping areas. National Park Service rangers actively patrol the area. Note that alcohol is prohibited in the park. If Cold Springs is full, Rock Creek Campground is another option within driving distance of the falls.

What amenities are available at Carver Campground in Chickasaw National Recreation Area?

While specific information about Carver Campground is limited in available reviews, it's likely to offer similar amenities to other campgrounds in Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Based on the recreation area's standards, amenities typically include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restroom facilities. For more comprehensive amenities, Central Campground is designed for groups with open space but is described as fairly basic and close to the main road. For visitors seeking more developed facilities, Buckhorn Campground Loop D offers water and electric hookups on a first-come, first-served basis, with clean restrooms nearby. For current information about Carver Campground's specific amenities, contacting the Chickasaw National Recreation Area visitor center is recommended.

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