Glamping near Elgin, OK

Doris Campground serves as the main established camping area within the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Located at around 1,600 feet elevation near Elgin, Oklahoma, this area experiences dramatic temperature shifts with summer days regularly exceeding 100°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. The refuge encompasses over 59,000 acres of ancient mountain terrain dotted with oak forests, mixed grass prairies, and numerous small lakes where camping options range from primitive tent sites to rustic cabins.

What to do

Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: At Camp Doris, early mornings provide optimal wildlife encounters. "Wild deer and turkey frequently cross through the nearby campsites and if you wake up early enough, you can listen to the sounds of bugling elk," notes one camper.

Hiking varied terrain: The refuge offers hiking opportunities from family-friendly walks to challenging scrambles. "There are plenty of great trails to choose from. If you're looking for an easy day hike check out the Elk Trail," explains a regular visitor to Doris Campground.

Rock climbing routes: Granite formations throughout the refuge offer natural climbing opportunities. "The Wichita Mountains give you a sense that you can almost feel the native Indians. Mysterious & spiritual aura that surrounds you," describes a visitor who enjoyed the climbing areas near Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park, about an hour's drive from Elgin.

Water recreation: Summer visitors can access multiple lakes. "Lake Elmer Thomas offers a nice sandy beach area, waterslides, paddle boats and kayaks for rent, a restaurant and a playground in the camping area," reports a visitor to this recreation area.

What campers like

Tent camping flexibility: Tent campers appreciate the diverse site options. "The campgrounds were very well maintained, maps were very easy to navigate! I felt safe setting up my tent and leaving it for the day while our group went out to hike," shared a visitor at Doris Campground.

Clean facilities: Despite being in a wilderness setting, the maintained facilities receive positive feedback. "The sinks and toilets were very clean," noted a camper, though they also mentioned that "whoever cleans the pit toilets has high cleanliness standards."

Night sky viewing: With minimal light pollution, stargazing conditions are exceptional. "Join 'Friends of the Wichitas' for exclusive tours of the private areas of the park and access to stargazing and wildlife events," suggests a regular visitor to the area.

Proximity to Medicine Park: This historic cobblestone resort town provides dining and shopping options just minutes from camping areas. "While in the area it is recommended to visit Holy City and the unique town of Medicine Park. Also in Medicine Park there is a Creek that is stocked with Trout from November to March," notes a reviewer from Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area.

What you should know

Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, securing a spot requires advance planning. "Weekends at WMWR are very popular beginning early in the camping season making it difficult to find open spots by Friday evening. But that doesn't keep people from trying late into the night," warns a regular visitor.

Water concerns: Potable water availability fluctuates. "Please note that at the time of this review (3/2020) there is NO potable water anywhere in the WMWR. An e.coli contamination in 2017 is still not resolved and any and all water is considered unsafe, including all streams and lakes. Bring in your own water, the closest store is at least 30 mins away," cautions a camper at Doris Campground.

Military noise proximity: The Lazy H Alpaca Ranch glamping site and surrounding areas may experience military training noise. "Biggest con was absolutely no warning on their site that there is training going on all around the CG. If you have a Veteran with PTSD like I do prepare him/her that they shoot howitzer rounds at any given time," explains a camper staying at the nearby Fort Sill facilities.

Seasonal limitations: Services vary throughout the year. "Due to COVID all spots require pre-registration online and only self contained vehicles are permitted (all bathrooms are closed). There is no service in the park, but about 2 bars next to the Visitor's center (which is also closed), so be sure to reserve a spot before you get close to the park," advised a visitor during 2020.

Tips for camping with families

Animal encounters: The opportunity for children to see wildlife makes family glamping in Elgin, Oklahoma memorable. "Saw geese, fox, Coyotes, Buffalo, prairie dogs and rattle snakes," reports a family from Fort Sill, though parents should supervise children closely due to wildlife presence.

Alternative glamping with animals: For a unique experience, consider Lazy H Alpaca Ranch glamping. "We got to pet the Alpacas and the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company," shares a winter visitor, making this an educational option for families seeking unusual accommodation near Elgin.

Lake activities for kids: Families with children appreciate the designated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer. "A nice beach and cordoned swim area, complete with restrooms and shower house(11a-7p)…lifeguards," notes a visitor describing the family-friendly facilities at Lake Elmer Thomas.

Educational opportunities: The refuge visitor center provides engaging exhibits for children. "The visitor center deserves at least an hour of time. Fabulous," suggests a camper who explored the educational displays with family members.

Tips from RVers

Electric site selection: RV campers recommend securing specific loops for best access to utilities. "Our loop had 30 amp, not sure is 50 was available elsewhere or not," notes an RVer at Doris Campground, adding information about power limitations.

Gate access for large vehicles: When approaching Pecan Grove RV Resort or military facilities, follow specific entry routes. "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," advises an RVer familiar with the area.

Full hookup limitations: RV sites with complete services are limited. "There are only (3) three full hook up spots so book in advance!" warns a visitor to Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park, highlighting the need for early reservations for luxury glamping near Elgin, Oklahoma.

Site spacing: RV parks in the region offer varying degrees of privacy. "For being a RV park, the spaces were not right on top of each other like some parks are," notes a visitor to Pecan Grove RV Resort, appreciating the reasonable separation between sites.