The Wichita Mountains region near Hastings, Oklahoma sits at elevations between 1,500 and 2,400 feet with granite peaks rising dramatically from the surrounding plains. Temperatures can vary significantly with summer highs often exceeding 95°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. This unique terrain creates diverse camping opportunities including both established campgrounds and luxury glamping options where seasonal winds can affect setup and comfort.
What to do
Hiking at WMWR: The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offers numerous trails for all skill levels. "The scenery of The Narrows, Charon's Garden, Elk Mountain, and the Holy City are wonderful," reports one Camp Doris visitor who recommends joining "Friends of the Wichitas for exclusive tours of the private areas of the park and access to stargazing and wildlife events."
Stargazing: Clear skies and minimal light pollution make this area ideal for night sky viewing. A visitor noted Camp Doris "is very quiet and spread out. Longhorns were evidenced in our area. We enjoyed driving over to Prairie Dog town and spending time laughing at their antics."
Water activities: Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area provides numerous water-based activities. "A nice beach and cordoned swim area, complete with restrooms and shower house (11a-7p)…lifeguards," reports a visitor who also mentioned "watersport rentals: paddle boards, canoes, kayaks, pontoon boat" are available.
Wildlife viewing: The refuge hosts free-roaming bison, longhorn cattle, and prairie dogs. "We saw some HUGE longhorns and bison on the open range and that was great," shares a camper who spent time at Doris Campground.
What campers like
Level sites with facilities: At Lake Arrowhead State Park, "This park has made pull through sites for big rigs. The lake and fishing area are great. Very quiet and no artificial lights, great place to star gaze. Love the little circles the water/electricity sites are located."
Privacy between campsites: Many visitors appreciate the spacing at Camp Doris. One camper noted, "The sites are 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."
Family-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park earns praise for its extensive activities. "I can't say enough good things about this place. The employees are so incredibly kind, you can tell they love what they do. From animals to a water course on the lake, this place has literally EVERYTHING you can possibly think of. 3 pools, an AMAZING splash pad for the kids and plenty of family activities for all ages."
Budget-friendly glamping: For those seeking glamping in Hastings, Oklahoma area, several options exist with modern comforts at reasonable prices. One visitor to Moneka Park noted, "I absolutely love going here to camp! There's like never anyone there, so it's always quiet and we don't have to worry about people starting crap for no reason."
What you should know
Water issues: Camp Doris has had ongoing water quality concerns. "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."
Reservation systems: Several campgrounds require advance booking, especially on weekends. A visitor to Doris Campground reported, "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."
Cell service limitations: Many areas have limited or no connectivity. One camper noted, "No service whatsoever Verizon or T-Mobile.. do not recommend if you have remote workdays!" This is particularly important for those planning luxury glamping near Hastings who may need to stay connected.
Noise considerations: At Lake Elmer Thomas, "you will see and hear C-Ram's lighting up the sky randomly during the day and night hours, as well as other ordinance. Think unanticipated fireworks." This is important to consider for those sensitive to noise.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children particularly enjoy the prairie dogs. "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," notes one Camp Doris visitor.
Kid-friendly swimming: Wichita Falls RV Park offers water features that children enjoy. "The grounds were beautiful, there were mature trees. Bathrooms and swimming pool very clean, and the pond and bridge were a joy for our kids, as well as the geese that were stopping there."
Activity planning: At Jellystone Park, families find plenty to do. "So many activities and things for kids to do. The sites are concrete pads (a little off level) with full hookups and nice grass. Would definitely come back here again."
Seasonal considerations: For family glamping trips near Hastings, Oklahoma, timing matters. Lake Arrowhead State Park has "Sweet little spot with prairie dog colonies which are fun to watch!" making spring and fall ideal times to visit when temperatures are more moderate.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Edgewater Park, RVers should note that sites are limited and permits are required. One visitor mentioned that "prices have changed since I went, the water level is not as high as it was and there is a lack of proper upkeep."
Hookup availability: Wichita Falls RV Park offers reliable facilities. "We were in back-in site 20, which was level, shaded and plenty wide and long enough for our 35' MH and tow car. The pads are gravel with a paved pad for picnic table. There are a lot of pull through sites that are plenty long for big rigs and not tight together. They have FHU, great cable and very decent WiFi."
Accessibility: For RVers planning luxury glamping experiences near Hastings, access is important. Lake Arrowhead State Park provides "easy access from state hwy. This park has made pull through sites for big rigs. The lake and fishing area are great."
Setup considerations: Be prepared for wind. A Camp Doris visitor noted, "Also constantly windy. Very! Tables & fire rings were to the rear of the site, not along the side," which can affect awning and outdoor setup.
