Camping spots near Hastings, Oklahoma center around Waurika Lake, a reservoir created in 1977 that spans 10,100 acres when at normal levels. The region sits at approximately 950 feet elevation in the Central Great Plains ecoregion. Summer night temperatures typically remain above 70°F through August, while winter camping faces potential freezing conditions from November through March.
What to do
Fishing access points: Beaver Creek Landing - Waurika Lake provides boat launch facilities with parking suitable for vehicles with trailers. Though not a camping area, it serves as a day-use spot for anglers. "The road to the public use area is wide enough for two passing vehicles with boats and there is plenty of space for longer rigs to park when you get to the boat ramp area," notes one visitor.
Hiking opportunities: The trail system near Waurika Primitive Camping offers extensive paths for day hikers and backpackers. "The trail is 13 miles ONE way, so if you decide to hike, take gear and water. It's absolutely stunning," advises a camper who visited in late November.
Kayaking: Multiple lake access points allow for paddling. At Waurika Primitive Camping, reviewers note, "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 up in your small boat. No boat ramp."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide opportunities to spot local wildlife along the shoreline. A visitor at COE Waurika Lake Wichita Ridge North reported, "When we got up the next morning it was to enjoy seeing a small deer standing in the edge of the lake. Didn't seem afraid of us."
What campers like
Quiet lakefront sites: Kiowa Park Campground receives praise for its spaciousness and lake access. A September visitor noted, "It's a large campground with lots of space between most sites. It was completely silent only a handful of campers spaced way apart. Lots of spots on the water with easy access to the water."
Free camping options: Waurika Primitive Camping stands out as a no-cost alternative with basic amenities. "FREE, LIMIT 14 DAYS, LNT. This is an amazing place. The sites are less than 1/4 mile from the highway. There are some rock fire rings and nice open areas that are mowed so no tall weeds," reports a camper.
Clean facilities: Some campgrounds maintain well-kept facilities despite their rural location. At Kiowa Park Campground, a visitor observed, "It's beautifully maintained even the bathrooms are clean. No trash this place is spotless and beautiful and quiet."
Sunset views: The western exposure of many campsites provides excellent evening views. A camper at COE Waurika Lake Wichita Ridge North shared, "Our site was right on the water but sunset just off to our left but the moon was amazing. The land around the lake is slightly rolling farmland and pasture so you will enjoy your peace and quiet."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many Hastings area campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Chisholm Trail Ridge Park - Waurika Lake has a shorter season than some others. One visitor warned, "I went to go check out campgrounds around the lake and this one had been recommended by someone in the community of Waurika. Unfortunately when I went out here though it was closed! When I arrived the gates were locked."
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites can be challenging after rain. At Waurika Primitive Camping, a reviewer cautioned, "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!"
Water access variations: Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting boat launches and swimming areas. At Beaver Creek Landing, a visitor observed, "When I visited the recent rains had the lake swelling to a pretty high level and the waters had pushed up well over the the typical as can be seen in the picture attached of the dock which typically sets beside the launch area but is now underwater at the shore line."
Insect presence: Prepare for seasonal insect activity, particularly in summer months. A visitor at COE Waurika Lake Wichita Ridge North mentioned, "The only issue were the wasp. We always seem to have ants anymore but this was the first of the wasp."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Moneka Park offers facilities suitable for children. "I absolutely love going here to camp! There's like never anyone there, so it's always quiet," noted a satisfied camper, making it ideal for families seeking peaceful surroundings.
Beach conditions: Swimming areas vary in quality around the lake. One visitor to Waurika Primitive Camping reported, "The beach is very muddy. Not too much sand. It does not stink. There are a lot of Fish, Birds and Clams."
Spacing between sites: For families needing room to spread out, certain campgrounds offer more spacious layouts. A visitor to Kiowa Park Campground observed, "Sites are spaced about 100 ft apart, lots of privacy. Very good place to spend a few days."
Camp host availability: Some campgrounds feature on-site staff during peak season. A camper noted, "Grounds are very clean and well kept, a Ranger lives on sight. Play ground for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose campgrounds with appropriate access roads and parking pads. At Wichita Ridge Campground, a camper advised, "The road is narrow and though you could navigate an RV here I would not recommend a longer unit."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary between campgrounds and camping loops. At Chisholm Trail Ridge Park, a reviewer noted, "All sites have either 30 or 50 amp service. Water is only on designated sites so be diligent when searching for a site."
Pull-through considerations: Site configurations affect ease of parking. One reviewer mentioned about Kiowa Park II Marina, "Pull-through sites are for shorter RVs as they are a tightly curved."
Cell service: Mobile connectivity is surprisingly good at some locations. A Kiowa Park Campground visitor shared, "I have Virizon. I had 4 bars worked fine."
