Camping opportunities near Duncan, Oklahoma focus on the Arbuckle Mountains region with elevations between 700-1,400 feet in a transitional zone between Eastern and Western Oklahoma ecosystems. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F while winters remain relatively mild, with occasional cold snaps dropping to the 20s. Campsites range from primitive lakeside spots to developed campgrounds with full RV hookups.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Wichita Mountains: The refuge provides exceptional wildlife encounters with free-ranging bison, longhorn cattle, and prairie dogs. "We saw longhorns and bison several times, but unfortunately didn't see any prairie dogs," noted one visitor at Camp Doris.
Exploring caves and waterfalls: Turner Falls features a network of caves and natural swimming areas. "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," advises a camper at Turner Falls Park.
Water recreation options: Multiple lakes provide swimming, fishing, and boating. At Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area, you'll find "a nice beach and cordoned swim area, complete with restrooms and shower house(11a-7p)…lifeguards" plus "watersport rentals: paddle boards, canoes, kayaks, pontoon boat."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Certain areas offer more privacy than others. "There are a couple great spots but they go fast. We got here on Wednesday and most of the secluded spots were taken," reports a visitor to Turner Falls Park during a holiday weekend.
Yurt camping in Duncan, Oklahoma area: The surrounding region features several yurt accommodations offering glamping-style comfort. At Red River Rose RV Resort, campers appreciate the variety of accommodation options from traditional sites to deluxe yurts with amenities.
Crystal clear water: The streams and swimming holes feature remarkably clear water. "Crystal clear water" is frequently mentioned in reviews of Turner Falls, though campers note the water is "COLD" even in summer months.
Mountain views: The Arbuckle Mountains create scenic backdrops for camping. "Staff super chill, lots of sites. Beautiful views of the lake and mountains - if you get a good spot," writes one camper about Doris Campground.
What you should know
Weekday visits recommended: Multiple campgrounds become extremely crowded on weekends. "As everyone else has said, crowds here are the worst. Not only does it just get busy: the crowds here are particular crude, litter, loud, and generally unpleasant (drunk). Don't go on weekends. It simply won't be worth it. Sneak a day off and go middle of the week," advises a Turner Falls visitor.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. "Remember make sure that you buy your tickets ahead of time because it gets so packed on the weekends nobody can get in," warns a Turner Falls camper.
Weather considerations: The region experiences extreme temperature fluctuations. "I camped here in November and was not at all prepared for how cold it was at night. We arrived after dark and set up and went to sleep right away," reported a camper who underestimated seasonal temperature changes.
Water safety concerns: Some campgrounds have water quality issues. At Buckhorn Campground, campers should note that "at the time of this review there is NO potable water anywhere in the WMWR. An e.coli contamination in 2017 is still not resolved and any an all water is considered unsafe, including all streams and lakes. Bring in your own water, the closest store is at least 30 mins away."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife encounters for kids: Scheduled viewing opportunities exist across the region. "Join 'Friends of the Wichitas' for exclusive tours of the private areas of the park and access to stargazing and wildlife events," recommends a regular visitor to the Wichita Mountains.
Water activity options: Family-friendly water features are available at several sites. Lake Elmer Thomas offers "mini golf course" and a "disc golf course" near camping areas, plus "a nice beach and cordoned swim area" with lifeguards on duty from 11am-7pm.
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities provide learning opportunities. "We went to one of the ranger lectures about nocturnal wildlife," mentions one family who enjoyed the educational aspect of their camping trip at The Point Campground.
Storm shelter access: Oklahoma's weather can change rapidly. Red River Rose RV Resort provides "a storm shelter, just in case," which offers peace of mind for families camping during storm season.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites require significant leveling. At Buckhorn Campground Loop C, one RVer warns: "Just beware if you are camping in an RV, the site is VERY unlevel! We were in a pop up camper and had one tire up off the ground at least 6 inches with our Baleveler."
Generator restrictions: Rules about generator use vary by campground. At Doris Campground, "The generator hours are 7AM-9AM, 7PM-9PM. We didn't hear a single generator over our 4 days there."
Gate access information: Military campgrounds have specific entry requirements. For Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area, "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."
Hookup details: Electric service varies between campgrounds. Red River Rose RV Resort offers full hookups for RVs, while some campgrounds like Moneka Park provide only electric hookups without water or sewer connections.
