Tent camping near Elgin, Oklahoma offers primitive sites in a region known for its mixed-grass prairie landscape and moderate temperatures. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in southwestern Oklahoma, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F. Winter camping remains viable with average lows around 30°F, though occasional freezing precipitation can affect access roads.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Waurika Primitive Camping, campers can enjoy bank fishing or launching small boats from the shoreline. "There is a great area to put the kayaks in and enjoy the lake. If you want to fish I guess you could do it right from the bank and set out in your small boat," notes a camper. No formal boat ramp exists, so small, portable watercraft work best.
Hiking trails: The 13-mile one-way trail near Waurika Primitive Camping provides extensive outdoor exploration. According to a visitor, "The trail is absolutely stunning," though they warn "if you decide to hike, take gear and water" due to the substantial distance.
Animal interactions: Lazy H Alpaca Ranch offers unique camping with alpaca viewing. "Bring your own tent and enjoy sleeping with the Alpacas for a great camping experience you won't forget," describes one camper. The ranch has operated for over ten years, providing a distinctive agricultural tourism experience.
What campers like
Secluded camping: At Lazy H Alpaca Ranch, campers appreciate the privacy. "We camped early Jan and it was cold. Kathy was very friendly and helpful," reports one visitor who enjoyed the seclusion despite winter conditions.
Free primitive sites: Chandler Creek Campground provides economical tent camping options with basic amenities. "There are five sites with electric FCFS with trash service but no toilet with rates $8.00-$17.00," notes a camper, making this a budget-friendly option for tent camping near Elgin.
Wildlife viewing: The presence of wildlife enhances the camping experience around Elgin. At Lazy H Alpaca Ranch, one camper mentioned "the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company" during their stay, adding an unexpected element to their outdoor experience.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites can deteriorate rapidly after rain. At Waurika Primitive Camping, "The road to the 3 camping spots are absolutely not easy to get to. If you have a big rig I suggest you take it super slow and when the road comes to a 'Y' take the left and BE CAREFUL!" warns one visitor.
Water availability: Prepare to bring all necessary drinking water when tent camping near Elgin. One camper at Waurika cautions, "Water water everywhere but not a drop to drink. Bring your own water. I don't suggest bathing in the lake but there are no signs saying you can't."
Reservation systems: Most primitive tent camping operates on first-come, first-served basis with 14-day stay limits. Chandler Creek requires contacting management for payment: "Draw back to this site is trying to pay for your site. I would call the above number a day before, during the week, to make arrangements," suggests a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Terrain considerations: Chandler Creek Campground features tent pads on grass rather than established platforms. "The actual campground is a huge grass field, nicely maintained and the pads have a base of grass," notes a visitor, which can affect comfort during wet weather.
Facility planning: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between sites. A Waurika camper warns about the trail bathroom: "It has a wonderful toilet and trash can that you can use for the small fee of not throwing up all over yourself over the smell." Plan accordingly with portable toilet solutions or choose campgrounds with maintained facilities.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations affect comfort for tent camping families. One Waurika camper reported, "We stayed the last week of November into the first week of December. The weather fluctuated but was mostly on the warm side with the exception of a few days in the 40's." Pack layers and appropriate sleeping gear.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: RV accessibility varies significantly between sites. For Waurika Primitive Camping, after rain storms "Ruts the size of a VW" can form on access roads, making travel difficult for larger vehicles. Scout roads before committing to sites with large rigs.
Electric options: Electrical hookups are limited but available at select locations. Chandler Creek provides "sites with electric FCFS," though RVers should note "all sizes of rigs can work out a spot but remember there are only 5 sites with amenities."
Off-season advantages: Winter camping offers reduced crowds. Though temperatures drop, one Lazy H Alpaca Ranch visitor noted their January camping experience was enjoyable despite cold temperatures, with staff remaining helpful during off-season.
