Quartz Mountain State Park offers year-round glamping close to Granite, Oklahoma within the Wichita Mountain range. Located in southwestern Oklahoma at an elevation of 1,600 feet, the area features distinct granite peaks rising from the prairie landscape. Summer temperatures typically exceed 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing, creating varied camping conditions across seasons.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge features numerous trails for all skill levels. "Incredible scenery and wildlife. We enjoyed visiting the Environmental Education Center for its trails and pier. I think our favorite area is around Rush Lake for its views and waterfalls," notes one visitor.
Prairie dog observation: Plan a visit to the dedicated viewing area in the refuge. "We enjoyed driving over to Prairie Dog town and spending time laughing at their antics. Since our last visit, their area has really grown and continued to spread out," shares a camper from Doris Campground.
Mountain climbing: For experienced hikers, Quartz Mountain offers challenging terrain. "We climbed Quartz Mountain on the first day. There is not a well marked trail, you just have to try and find the path of least resistance and not die. The view is well worth the hike," explains a visitor to Quartz Mountain State Park.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: After recent renovations, the campgrounds offer improved amenities. "This park was turned back over to the state in 2020 and is exactly how I remembered it from the 80's. Tucked down in southwest Oklahoma in the Wichita Mountains, it's a small park but has LOTS of options," shares a visitor from Quartz Mountain Nature Park.
Wildlife encounters: The area provides frequent animal sightings. "Deer & turkey were often strolling thru our campsite, undaunted by our presence," reports a camper at Doris Campground.
Beach access: Foss State Park Campground offers water recreation options. "The beachfront was vast and amazing I could easily say this was what made it worth the trip. You could walk the beach, get in the water or enjoy a picnic through one of the shaded areas," notes a visitor.
What you should know
Water concerns: Be prepared to bring your own water. "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," warns a visitor at Camp Doris.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is sparse throughout the area. "No service whatsoever Verizon or T-Mobile.. do not recommend if you have remote workdays!" notes a Doris Campground camper.
Wind conditions: The Oklahoma prairie experiences strong winds. "Slightly remote which makes it nice and quiet. I don't know if it's an Oklahoma thing but the wind was crazy making tent camping a little rough," reports a Foss State Park visitor.
Seasonal crowds: Glamping accommodations near Granite, Oklahoma fill quickly during peak periods. "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," advises a frequent visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Foss State Park offers designated swimming areas. "This campground offers an area sectioned off for swimmers. A lot of room is available for boating fun whether it be fishing, skiing, tubing, etc," notes a visitor.
Special events: Plan your visit around seasonal activities. "They do special events during the year like fireworks on the lake for the 4th of July, haunted trails and trick or treating for Halloween, some other events here and there year round," explains a Foss State Park camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule time for animal observation with children. "We saw some HUGE longhorns and bison on the open range and that was great," shares a Doris Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose outer loop sites when possible. "I don't particularly like the sites on the inside of the loops. Water view sites are circled on the map. Outer Loop Sites Almost Always Great," advises an RV camper at Doris Campground.
Level pad availability: Some campgrounds offer concrete pads. "We stayed in the Mountain View campground which has concrete pads and didn't have to level our rig at all. Electric and water and steps to the flush bathroom that has a shower in it," reports a visitor.
Pet considerations: Be aware of potential hazards. "LOTS of stickers. Beware especially if you have long haired dogs," warns a camper at Quartz Mountain Nature Park.
