Alabaster Caverns State Park Campground sits in northwestern Oklahoma at an elevation of about 1,600 feet, characterized by gypsum formations and limestone canyons. The surrounding area features a mix of prairie grasslands and wooded ravines, with temperatures ranging from highs around 95°F in summer to below freezing in winter. Campgrounds near Freedom offer distinct overnight experiences, from canyon camping with bat viewing opportunities to sand dune settings with ATV access.
What to do
Cave camping reservations: Alabaster Caverns State Park offers a unique overnight adventure in one of their wild caves. "Many years ago, I decided I wanted a real adventure, so I heard Alabaster Caverns would let you sleep in a cave. I don't know if they still do it, but it was a wild adventure. You have to hike down into the canyon to a make-shift campsite near a cave opening," shares Dana H., who notes that inside the cave "were rocks flattened on the top to be made to be beds."
Wildlife observation trails: The park's canyon trails provide opportunities for viewing bats and other wildlife. According to Dusty G., "This is a really great park in Major County, Oklahoma. Very close to other natural sites like, Little Sahara and the Gloss (Glass) Mountains... The tour is enjoyable, and 3 species of bat can be seen frequently." The trails through the canyon offer views of alabaster outcrops and seasonal wildlife.
Dark sky stargazing: Alabaster Caverns State Park Campground provides excellent night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. Charyle C. notes, "The area appears to be a Dark Sky Area with little artificial light, so the night sky was brilliant!" This makes it an ideal location for astronomy enthusiasts to observe stars and constellations.
What campers like
Natural spring exploration: Boiling Springs State Park offers access to a unique natural spring. Anita B. says, "We only spent one night, but enjoyed the hiking trail and viewing the spring. A nice respite for weary travelers." The bubbling spring creates a continuous flow of water that maintains a constant temperature year-round.
Sandbar swimming: Fort Supply Lake has designated swimming areas with natural sandbars. Keri F. from COE Fort Supply Lake Supply Park recommends, "Amazing swimming area. Helpful staff. If you have a boat the sandbars are a great place to stop and let the kids play safely in the water." The lake has multiple access points for day use and camping.
Off-road vehicle recreation: Buttercup Campground at Little Sahara State Park provides direct access to sand dunes for ATV enthusiasts. "This place is amazing. It is also very much for the 4 wheeler crowd. The campground spots are close, the bikes are loud but people are friendly," notes Teresa T. The dunes cover over 1,600 acres with varying heights and difficulty levels.
What you should know
Seasonal mosquito intensity: Low-lying wooded areas at Boiling Springs State Park experience significant mosquito activity during warmer months. Morgan K. warns, "There are GIANT mosquitos in the late spring and summer and they are in swarms." Campers should bring appropriate repellent, especially when staying near water features.
Lake hazards awareness: At Fort Supply Lake, underwater hazards can cause foot injuries. Ryan S. advises, "Wear water shoes while in the water. Too many gashed feet from broken bottles and freshwater mussel shells." This precaution is especially important at popular swimming areas and sandbars.
Cave tour restrictions: The caverns tour at Alabaster Caverns has specific rules regarding personal items. Charyle C. explains, "No pictures allowed in the caverns. No smoking, vaping, food or bottled water either. Wear decent shoes due to slick, muddy spots and a jacket. It gets a bit chilly inside." Tours last approximately one hour and require moderate physical ability.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Whitetail Campground at Boiling Springs State Park features multiple play areas for children. Dana H. describes, "Old growth woods and winding roads with boiling springs, deer everywhere, lots of hiking, playgrounds galore, babbling brooks, easy to bike ride in, and a HUGE pool." The playground equipment is suitable for various age groups.
Educational cave tours: Alabaster Caverns offers guided tours appropriate for school-age children. Kevin T. shares, "I took my little cousins here and they had a blast. It was really cool when you go to go in the caves. The caves are really slippery so I should have wore my hiking boots instead to sandals. The tour was amazing and was only 10 dollars."
Dog-friendly hiking options: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Freedom offer pet-accessible trails. Dan N. recommends Alabaster Caverns: "Definitely take a cave tour while visiting, but also explore the other trails in the park through the canyon. There are a few different camping locations, we stayed farthest from the visitor center and hiking trails. You can walk to the caves from any of the campgrounds."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For pet-friendly RV camping near Freedom, choose sites based on privacy needs. Teresa T. observes about Alabaster Caverns, "Small park with a little bit rough hiking trails but if you are into caves, I think this is a great place for you. Two campgrounds...one for RVs and one for more primitive camping. Both are nice." The RV section offers easier access but less seclusion.
Site spacing considerations: Shirley's Shine Car Wash and RV Park accommodates large rigs despite compact spacing. Kat notes, "We fit in a super C (Semi truck) 41ft long x 13.6 height with flat tow. Verizon cell service excellent. Quiet. Trash available. No tables." This option provides basic services for travelers with larger vehicles.
Winter camping preparation: Some campsites limit services during colder months. Teresa T. reports about Fort Supply Lake, "I was the only camper here and no water and no bathrooms due to winter." RVers should verify which amenities remain operational during off-season visits to Freedom area campgrounds.
