Tent campgrounds near Medicine Park, Oklahoma offer a mix of lakeside and riverfront options within driving distance of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. The Oklahoma climate creates varied camping conditions throughout the year, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and winters bringing occasional freezing conditions. The landscape features a combination of open grasslands and scattered tree cover, with water access points at several locations.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Waurika Primitive Camping provides easy lake entry for small watercraft without formal boat ramps. According to a camper, "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 out in your small boat. No boat ramp."
Hiking opportunities: The Waurika Primitive Camping area connects to an extensive trail system. One visitor notes, "The trail is 13 miles ONE way, so if you decide to hike, take gear and water. It's absolutely stunning."
Wildlife observation: The natural areas around Chandler Creek allow for riverbank wildlife watching. The sites are situated with "the highway along one side and some trees and the river along the other," creating a corridor for observing local species.
What campers like
Affordability: Chandler Creek Campground offers budget-friendly options with rates between $8.00-$17.00 for electric sites. One reviewer appreciated that "There are five sites with electric FCFS with trash service."
Open space layout: The campground areas feature expansive grassy areas maintained for tent placement. A camper described Chandler Creek as "a huge grass field, nicely maintained and the pads have a base of grass."
Seasonal variety: Late fall camping provides moderate temperatures with occasional cool days. A November camper reported, "The weather fluctuated but was mostly on the warm side with the exception of a few days in the 40's."
What you should know
Water supply planning: No potable water is available at most sites. At Waurika Primitive Camping, visitors advise "Water water everywhere but not a drop to drink. Bring your own water."
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive areas may be challenging. One camper warned, "The roads 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!"
Reservation process: Payment systems vary between locations. For Chandler Creek, a camper recommends: "Draw back to this site is trying to pay for your site. I would call the above number a day before, during the week, to make arrangements."
Tips for camping with families
Beach expectations: Lake beaches in the area tend to be muddy rather than sandy. A visitor observed, "The beach is very muddy. Not too much sand. It does not stink. There are a lot of Fish, Birds and Clams."
Fire ring availability: Some primitive areas have established fire rings in cleared areas. One camper noted, "There are some rock fire rings and nice open areas that are mowed so no tall weeds."
Shelter options: Picnic shelters provide relief from sun in otherwise open camping areas. A reviewer mentioned Chandler Creek has "shaded picnic shelters and the shelters come in hand since where the sites are there is no shade."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Electrical hookups are restricted to specific numbered sites. At Chandler Creek, a visitor pointed out, "There are only 5 sites with amenities."
Size accommodation: Despite access challenges, larger RVs can find suitable positioning at most locations. One camper noted that at Chandler Creek, "all sizes of rigs can work out a spot but remember there are only 5 sites with amenities."
Stay limits: For the best tent camping near Medicine Park, Oklahoma, observe posted duration restrictions. Waurika Primitive Camping enforces a "LIMIT 14 DAYS" policy for all visitors.
