The Milburn area sits at the heart of Lake Texoma country in south-central Oklahoma, where dense woodlands meet expansive lake shores at approximately 600-700 feet elevation. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F with high humidity, making water access a priority for campers. Most campgrounds in this region remain open year-round, though some facilities close between December and March.
What to do
Fishing with license required: At Blue River Campground, you'll need an Oklahoma fishing license even just to camp. "This place is a gem and is the only natural aquifer left in Oklahoma. You have to have fishing licenses to enter. I thought that was very strange provided we only camp to camp and swim," notes Tyler S. The river is stocked with trout during certain seasons.
Hiking on secluded trails: The Point Campground offers trail access away from crowds. "We've never been to Chickasaw National Recreation Area so I tried to reserve a site online but they were ALL booked. We drove down Thursday night to try to snag a FCFS site," writes Erin-Frannie R., who found that "the energy was much calmer and quieter" at The Point than at more popular campgrounds.
Swimming in clear water: Escape summer heat in natural swimming holes. "Swimming is amazing, you can play in springs and waterfalls. Nice wooded and private campsites," reports a visitor to Chickasaw Recreation Area. Water clarity varies by location, with Blue River noted for exceptional visibility: "The water is so clear, you can see the fish in it," according to Jennifer D.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Blue River Campground offers primitive camping with natural privacy. "Camping stops are spaced out very well. It is primitive camping. There is no electricity and there are some bathrooms but very few," writes Jennifer D. The campground features "small falls and rope swings" that make it "the perfect way to cool off in the hot Oklahoma sun."
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently encounter local fauna. "When the sun starts setting the wildlife start to appear. 3 deer passed right by our campsite with no fear. And I watched a family of squirrels having a good day in a tree we had our tarp tied to," notes Erin-Frannie about The Point Campground.
Lakeside RV access: Lakeside Campground offers direct water access for RVs. "Most rv sites are 30 amp. Section B is 50 amp. Sites are water and electric, no sewer sites," explains RICK V. "Sites are asphault and generally spaced apart so you are not right on top of each other."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Most sites are reserved and paid on line before you arrive," advises RICK V. about Lakeside Campground. For holiday weekends, booking months in advance is necessary.
Primitive facilities at some locations: Platter Flats Campground has limited amenities. "The facilities are extremely outdated but there are new bath/shower combos coming online very shortly in the equestrian section. In the meantime there are 2 shower stalls available for men and 2 for women in the entire camp," notes B H.
Cell service limitations: Digital detox is unavoidable at some sites. "There is NO cell or internet signal other than one sweet spot by the bathrooms, so you may get a surge of texts and missed call notifications while you're doing your business," reports Erin-Frannie R. about The Point Campground.
Wildlife considerations: Prepare for insect and animal encounters. "There are many snakes such as rattlesnakes and copperheads. I havent saw water moccasins maybe because the water is too cold," warns Melanie W. about Blue River. Tracy C. adds, "The raccoons can be aggressive, keep your food put up in your car or a cooler and throw away your trash nightly unless you want to pick it up in pieces the next day."
Tips for camping with families
Book equestrian campgrounds for kid entertainment: Eisenhower State Park offers equestrian facilities that fascinate children. "Half of the campground is an equestrian camp. There are great hiking trails and beautiful views. Good shady spots. We had two kids with us and we loved walking around the campground and seeing all the horses!" shares Rachael H.
Look for solar-heated showers: Some campgrounds offer more comfort for families with young children. "The timed showers are solar heated and the water temp was pleasant," notes Erin-Frannie R. about The Point Campground. Many tent-only areas lack showers entirely.
Check for education programs: Rangers often conduct programs kids enjoy. "Great educational programs on nature and Native American history," mentions one visitor to Chickasaw Recreation Area, offering families learning opportunities beyond typical outdoor activities.
Tips from RVers
Casino camping convenience: Choctaw RV Park offers full amenities with entertainment options. "Very clean KOA right next to Choctaw casino. They have a shuttle that comes right to your spot to take you to the casino. Cable tv and a great pool as well!" reports Chris P.
Check site levelness before setting up: Uneven sites challenge larger rigs. "Keep in mind it will be unlevel," warns Gina H. about Buckhorn Campground. "We were in a pop up camper and had one tire up off the ground at least 6 inches with our Baleveler."
Verify amp service before booking: Power requirements vary by location. "Most rv sites are 30 amp. Section B is 50 amp," notes RICK V. about Lakeside Campground. "They need to upgrade sites to 50 amp" for glamping close to Milburn, Oklahoma with air conditioning during summer months.
