Platter Flats Campground serves as one of the primary horse campgrounds near Milburn, Oklahoma, located along Lake Texoma at approximately 640 feet elevation. The campground features 35 equestrian sites with utility hookups plus 3 tent-only sites without hookups, operating seasonally from April through September. Water levels in Lake Texoma fluctuate significantly throughout the year, affecting shoreline access for horses and swimmers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Platter Flats Campground provides excellent fishing access to Lake Texoma. "Great place for fishing, and if you are looking for a wonderful sunset, you have found the best place for it," notes Leah P., who adds that while campsites are "generic" they're conveniently "close to the lake."
Trail riding: The extensive equestrian trail system connects Platter Flats to Lakeside Park across the water. According to N.I. from COE Lake Texoma Platter Flats, the area is "Amazing and Great for trail riding" with "Beautiful rolling hills with mature trees" making it suitable for both novice and experienced riders.
Winter camping: For off-season options when Platter Flats is closed, Elephant Rock Campground at Lake Murray remains open year-round. Jake shares his winter experience: "Stopped here on the way south to San Antonio. There were only two RVs in the entire campground... I was visited by a friendly goose for breakfast."
Hiking trails: Multiple marked trails accommodate hikers of varying abilities throughout the region. "The trail is well marked and easy to follow. There are large map signs on each end of the trail and markers along the way," notes B.H. about the equestrian trails that hikers can also use.
What campers like
Quiet weekdays: Campers appreciate the peacefulness of weekday visits at equestrian campgrounds in the Milburn area. Jessica S. from Platter Flats notes, "Platter Flats is usually quiet. It's been our favorite campsite for years because of this. We've always been able to find an open spot with a nice view."
Shade coverage: The mature trees throughout the camping areas provide relief from summer heat. According to N.I., there's "Great shade especially in the equestrian area" at Platter Flats, which makes summer camping more comfortable when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Lake views: Coffee Mill Lake Recreation Area offers prime lakefront sites. Rick G. reports, "This is a nice campground on the shore of a small man made lake. The site I chose was close to the lake and relatively level."
Wildlife encounters: Hope F. notes about Platter Flats, "I grew up in the area, my family really loves it here. Nice and peaceful. We prefer the primitive area," highlighting the natural setting that attracts wildlife viewers.
What you should know
Weekend congestion: Weekends bring significant traffic through Platter Flats, especially during summer months. B.H. cautions, "People would drive to swim, fish, use the restroom, visit others in adjacent campsites or just cruise around with no aim from 8 AM to 10PM Thursday thru Sunday afternoon."
Reservation requirements: All sites at equestrian campgrounds require advance booking. N.I. specifies that Platter Flats requires "Reservations only: 877-444-6777 or recreation.gov" and has "No camp host" on site.
Train noise: Railroad tracks near Platter Flats create periodic noise disturbances. B.H. mentions, "There is a rail freight line and siding not far from the camp and once the vehicle traffic slows down, the trains seem to start. The train horns at crossings may be a bother to some."
Water connection length: At Lake Murray State Park, be prepared for distant water hookups. Jordan H. shares this practical tip: "We didn't realize we would need 50 feet of hose just to hook up to the water" when staying at Elephant Rock.
Tips for camping with families
Horse viewing opportunities: The equestrian camping areas allow children to see horses up close even without bringing your own. Rachael H. from Platter Flats reports, "We had two kids with us and we loved walking around the campground and seeing all the horses! But remember it will also smell like them so camp on that side at your own risk."
Playground access: Lake Murray Resort offers dedicated children's play areas. Brittany J. notes the park has "a ton of great camp sites" and includes "a nice pool with a splash area (only lodge and cabin guests have access), putt putt, activities on the lake (water trampoline, slide, etc)."
Varied activities: Lake Murray provides multiple family-friendly options beyond horseback riding. According to Jenise B., "Camp grounds are clean, have childrens play area, and cost is reasonable. Cabins are available if no tent or camper. Lots of hiking trails, bring your atv or utv for a ride at their riding park."
Campsite selection: When visiting with children, choose sites away from the main traffic areas. Rachael H. mentions, "Also there was no attendant and we switched sites for the weekend with no issue," suggesting some flexibility in finding the right spot for your family.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV sites at most equestrian campgrounds near Milburn have adequate but not generous spacing. B.H. notes about Platter Flats, "The sites are pretty close together and the entire park feels packed together when it comes to camping space."
Dust conditions: RVers should be aware of dust issues at equestrian campgrounds. B.H. comments that "The equestrian camp area has dirt/gravel road and all the traffic creates a dusty environment," which can affect outdoor setup and equipment.
Off-season advantages: Winter camping offers quieter experiences at regional campgrounds that remain open year-round. Jake notes about Elephant Rock, "Campsites are relatively close together and I can see how the place may get crowded in the summer, but it was almost completely vacant in December so I was grateful for the seclusion."
Water supply: RVers at Bois D' Arc Trailhead Campground should note the basic amenities. Izzy T. reports, "Water, tables, and fire pits at every site. Although the sites are close together there is plenty of space to spread out depending on how busy it is."
