Cabins near Medicine Park, Oklahoma include multiple options ranging from rustic to modern accommodations within the Wichita Mountains area. Located in the ancient Wichita Mountain range, Medicine Park sits at approximately 1,400 feet elevation and experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F and mild winters. Most cabin locations maintain gravel or paved access roads, though some require navigation of undulating terrain.
What to do
Wildlife viewing in Wichita Mountains: Camp Doris offers direct access to wildlife observation. "The scenery of The Narrows, Charon's Garden, Elk Mountain, and the Holy City are wonderful. Join 'Friends of the Wichitas' for exclusive tours of the private areas of the park and access to stargazing and wildlife events," notes one visitor.
Water activities at Lake Elmer Thomas: Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area provides multiple water-based recreation options. One visitor reports, "A nice beach and cordoned swim area, complete with restrooms and shower house... Watersport rentals: paddle boards, canoes, kayaks, pontoon boat."
Hiking trails and mountain access: Several trails start directly from campgrounds, with varying difficulty levels. "Hiking trails can be accessed directly from Doris Campground, or there are numerous other trails in other areas a short drive away," notes one camper who enjoys the variety of terrain.
What campers like
Lake views and accessibility: Many cabin locations feature water views. At Fort Cobb State Park Campground, "We have stayed at Fort Cobb State Park more than once. Always a great experience, quiet park, marina, golf course, and you can't come to this park without visiting the Ski-Boy, a classic burger joint in Fort Cobb right on the way to the lake."
Wildlife encounters: The region's buffalo and longhorn cattle populations often appear near camping areas. "There is free roaming Buffalo and Longhorn Cattle so dont be surprised if you see one in the Campground. There are numerous Lakes in the area to fish or boat in and numerous Hiking trails as well," explains a Camp Doris visitor.
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, many cabin areas maintain quality restrooms and showers. One visitor to Quartz Mountain State Park Campground notes, "A well maintained park lots of shaded sites, picnic tables are the best. Views of the mountain are great. Bathhouse and toilets are new in most sites."
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Water quality varies by location and season. "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."
Military base access procedures: For cabin rentals at Military Park Fort Sill Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area, civilians must follow specific procedures. "Passes must be acquired at the Visitor's Center at the Sheridan Entrance (plan for an hour) for each adult over 16. You must have a valid/current Drivers License, Passport or other recognized government ID. They do a background check before you qualify for a pass."
Noise considerations: Artillery training occurs near some cabin locations. "The campground is positioned along the northern side of the Artillery range. Yes, you will see and hear C-Ram's lighting up the sky randomly during the day and night hours, as well as other ordinance."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming area selection: Supervised swimming areas provide safety for children. "The beach and swimming area is manned by lifeguards from 11:00a-7:00p and offers a huge restroom/showers/changing rooms building. Playgrounds are located in the RV/Camper loop, outside the beach area and along the tenting area before you reach the cabin rentals."
Playground accessibility: Multiple cabin locations feature play equipment. At Burkburnett-Wichita Falls KOA, "Playground for the kids and dog park for your pup. Expect to pay about $45 a night for an RV site. You can save 10% with your KOA membership."
Camping activity options: Organized activities keep children engaged. "There is enough to stay busy right here at LERTA. Canoe, kayak, paddle board and pontoon boat rentals to enjoy the lake. Fishing is permitted and schools of bluegill are seen along the shoreline. A very nice mini-golf course is located across from the offices. Sand volleyball is next to the beach area."
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Choose sites based on access to amenities rather than views. "Prime spots for this campground area would be site #60, 62, 64, 66. Pros: Close to lake, Close to playground, Only one camper next to you. Cons: Small site, No sewer, Fire pit was overgrown with grass, Right next to busy roadway."
Gate access information: Military facility gates operate on restricted hours. "Do not use Letra Gate. It's closed. Ignore GPS and go to Apache Gate. Better yet set GPS for Apache Gate. It's the quickest route and you won't have to drive through the busy base and narrow roads."
Site preparation: Terrain issues require specific equipment. "The RV pads are gravel and can be a little soft so bring some platforms to put the jacks down on. There is a lot of wildlife you will see in the area including ducks and deer walking through the campground."
