Primitive camping options surround Hastings, Oklahoma, with sites situated on rocky or uneven terrain. Temperatures in this region range from 40°F in winter to over 100°F during summer months, with spring and fall offering more moderate conditions. Most tent camping areas require visitors to bring their own water and supplies due to limited facilities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Waurika Primitive Camping, campers can fish directly from the banks or launch small boats for lake access. "There are a lot of Fish, Birds and Clams. So if need be, you won't go hungry if stuck for a period of time," notes one camper who visited in late November.
Hiking exploration: The trail system near Waurika offers extensive outdoor recreation. "The trail. It is 13 miles ONE way, so if you decide to hike, take gear and water. It's absolutely stunning," reports a visitor who stayed during early December.
Boating on local lakes: Smaller watercraft work best on area lakes due to fluctuating water levels. "This lake is great for smaller boats like canoes or smaller fishing boats. In recent years it has endured some falling of the lake levels so I would recommend a smaller boat instead of a larger one," advises a visitor to Joe Benton Park.
What campers like
Economical camping options: Many sites in the area are free or low-cost. "FREE, LIMIT 14 DAYS, LNT. This is an amazing place. The sites are less than 1/4 mile from the highway," reports a camper about their October stay at Waurika Primitive Camping.
Relative solitude: Some campgrounds in the region offer quieter experiences than others. Joe Benton Park at Lake Nocona provides a more peaceful setting according to visitors: "It was the most quiet of the three as well because the majority of those coming out to the lake either want improvements or the larger docks for fishing, and this has neither."
Historical interest: Some camping areas feature educational components. Stonewall Jackson Campground offers "some cool historical reading of Stonewall Jackson," according to a visitor, though they note it's "more of a park" than a dedicated campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access routes to camping areas can be challenging, especially after rain. "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!" warns a Waurika camper who experienced difficult conditions.
Limited facilities: Bathroom options range from basic to nearly non-existent. At Joe Benton Park, "There is a restroom available however it is small but serves the purpose of a restroom only. To be honest this restroom was not some place you would want to use unless you had to, it was more of a port-a-potty in a metal shelter."
Site preparation: The best tent camping near Hastings, Oklahoma often requires searching for suitable terrain. At Joe Benton Park, "These sites were rocky and uneven for the most part but you could find hard packed areas that were a little more smooth if you really looked."
Tips for camping with families
Pack your own water: Lake water is not suitable for consumption. "As for the water. Water water everywhere but not a drop to drink. Bring your own water. I don't suggest bathing in the lake but there are no signs saying you can't," advises a camper who stayed at Waurika in late November.
Consider seasonal timing: Hot summer temperatures make spring and fall better for tent camping with children. "We stayed the last week of November into the first week of December. The weather fluctuated but was mostly on the warm side with the exception of a few days in the 40's," reports a Waurika visitor.
Bring supplies: Limited facilities mean preparation is essential. "Take your own toilet paper. A lot of people come through here because it is the more improved of three campgrounds in this area so they utilize the facilities for day use and sometimes it is not maintained as often as the traffic would dictate," recommends a visitor to Chandler Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some areas can accommodate bigger rigs despite primitive conditions. At Chandler Creek, "all sizes of rigs can work out a spot but remember there are only 5 sites with amenities," notes a visitor who found the campground to be "a huge grass field, nicely maintained."
Electric hookup options: Limited electrical access exists at select campgrounds. Chandler Creek offers "five sites with electric FCFS with trash service but no toilet with rates $8.00 - $17.00," according to a camper who appreciated the "shaded picnic shelters" since "where the sites are there is no shade."
Payment logistics: Contact campgrounds ahead of arrival to arrange payment. For Chandler Creek, a camper suggests, "I would call the above number a day before, during the week, to make arrangements," noting, "I called the number but didn't get an answer."
