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Best Tent Camping near Pauls Valley, OK

364 Reviews

Tent campsites around Pauls Valley, Oklahoma provide access to lakeside camping with several established options within a short drive. Guy Sandy Campground at Chickasaw National Recreation Area offers dedicated tent sites with $14 nightly fees, while Honey Creek Campground provides primitive tent camping near water. River Run RV Park includes designated tent camping areas with more amenities than most primitive locations.

Most tent camping areas feature basic facilities with varying amenities. Guy Sandy provides vault toilets and water spigots despite being a primitive campground, while sites like Romulus Lake offer both drinking water and electric hookups for tent campers. Sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables at established campgrounds, though some locations like Shawnee Twin Lakes have concrete tables that accommodate larger groups. During summer months, many campgrounds fill quickly, especially at smaller facilities like Guy Sandy, where arrivals should come early to secure a spot as sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

The camping experience varies significantly between locations. Areas around Lake of the Arbuckles can be noisy during daytime hours due to boat traffic but generally quiet at night. A visitor commented that at Guy Sandy, "The site I checked out had a picnic table and fire ring and was fairly even. There was a nice grassy pad which was ideal for tent camping." Walk-in tent locations at places like Lazy H Alpaca Ranch offer unique experiences with added privacy compared to drive-in sites. Tent campers at Shawnee Twin Lakes can enjoy fishing opportunities, with one camper noting "great bass fishing here!" Most tent areas provide adequate shade with tree cover, though summer temperatures warrant consideration when selecting sites. Campers report peaceful camping experiences, particularly at locations farther from major roads where natural settings predominate.

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Best Tent Sites Near Pauls Valley, Oklahoma (8)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Pauls Valley, OK

2 Photos of 8 Pauls Valley Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Pauls Valley, OK

364 Reviews of 8 Pauls Valley Campgrounds

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2018

    Guy Sandy Campground — Chickasaw National Recreation Area

    Nice Campsite On Busy Boating Area

    Of the campgrounds around the water, this one is perhaps one of the more busy. When visiting we noted numerous boat trailers just waiting for their owners to return to them. Despite it being so busy it was pretty quiet as a whole. Lots of trees around this location make for plenty of shade during warmer months and sites are large enough to easily accommodate rigs of all sizes or tent campers.

    Sites are well priced at $14 which wasn't bad considering how the campground was set up. Despite it being a primitive camp and only having vault toilets it was surprisingly comfortable feeling and does have water spigots around. It is also one of the smaller campgrounds at the Lake of the Arbuckles so during summer it can fill up quickly.

    The site I checked out here had a picnic table and fire ring and was fairly even. There was a nice grassy pad which was ideal for tent camping like I enjoy.

    I lot of people, as I mentioned before, take advantage of the lake from this campsite area so it is pretty noisy during the day at some of the sites and getting in the water can be a bit hard when its super busy because the boats really kick up the waves and there is no designated swimming area, however a bit further away it wasn't to bad. Nighttime, pretty quiet.

    TIPS:

    • These sites are not reservable so it is first come first serve. Arrive early during busy times of year to ensure your space.

    • If you have a boat, make sure your registrations are cleared by the State of Oklahoma before entering the water, this site is a very active site for game wardens to inspect so if you are hauling anything which does not fit guidelines to the water, you might want to reconsider doing so here.

  • Melanie W.
    Aug. 17, 2016

    Blue River Campground

    Free Camping

    The Blue River is beautiful. The camping is free but you must have an Oklahoma fishing license rather your fishing or not to camp there. There is around 80 campsites nestled in the woods along the bank of this beautiful clear river. It is primitive camping. There is no electric, water faucets, picnic tables, or grills. The bathrooms are primitive as in no flushing toilets. No showers. Hiking is great but watch out for snakes on the ground along trails. I saw a few. There are many snakes such as rattlesnakes and copperheads. I havent saw water moccasins maybe because the water is too cold. River PFHA is owned and managed by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.

  • Megan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 5, 2021

    Buckhorn Campground Loop C — Chickasaw National Recreation Area

    Pretty, Wooded Site

    We stayed here in loop D for one night in mid-December. There were only 2 other groups when we arrived to set up camp, but another 10-12 groups had come through by the time we were finished. Our site still had a lot of privacy and plenty of room to gather wood and explore. We did have to pick up some trash before we set up camp. Our pad had a table, a fire ring with a grill grate, and a lantern pole.

    The restrooms were down the road a bit, but still fairly close. They were large, clean, and well stocked.

  • Mandy K.
    Oct. 11, 2017

    Rock Creek Campground — Chickasaw National Recreation Area

    Scouting Outing

    We visited Rock Creek on a Girl Scout family camp outing. The area is nice--lots of tree cover, which is essential in OK's hot summers and early falls. You are able to scavenge your own firewood and kindling; however, there are places in town to purchase.

    The restrooms are clean, and the campgrounds are mostly clean. Leave no trace, y'all! Pack in, pack out! There are extremely convenient trash and recycling bins throughout the area and campgrounds. This is probably an issue because the area is large, with a lot of traffic, and not enough rangers (read: babysitters) to clean up after all the bodies coming in and out.

    Rock Creek isn't as close to Little Niagara and the Travertine Nature Center as Cold Springs, but it's a short drive or a couple miles' walk. The springs do not disappoint. They are refreshingly cool and perfect to play in when walking on the trails. The spring on the Antelope Springs trail is drinkable. The kids filled up their water bottles where the water was coming out of the rock.

    We saw some wildlife--deer, turkey, and owls.

    There are other multi-use trails, such as biking, off Rock Creek and through other campgrounds, though we didn't get to check them out.

    Don't forget: kids can take part in the FREE Junior Ranger program through the Travertine Center. Upon completion of a super easy and informative booklet, kiddos are sworn in as junior ranger and receive a patch and a badge. Pretty sweet deal, if ya ask me.

    Noteworthy: Originally, we had reserved a group spot in Cold Springs, but I made the mistake of thinking it included two campsites in a loop when it only included one. Pay attention to that one, folks. The person on the awesome group campsite that I thought we had reserved made the same mistake. The reservation will list the loop, including the campsites in the loop. That doesn't mean you get all the sites.

    Options to pay are online through recreation.gov or at the onsite kiosks. Convenient!

    All in all, though it is a popular spot in OK, it's beautiful and cost effective. We will return as scouting groups and weekend family getaways. Though, I will be more careful regarding site selection.

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2018

    Rock Creek Campground — Chickasaw National Recreation Area

    Huge Campground With Group Camping

    My first impression of this campground was a little fear.... but let me explain....

    When I pulled into this campground it looked like a festival had set up shop right inside the gate with dozens of tents in a clearing. It was a little overwhelming and I was afraid that with the closure of one of the local camps, I felt the overflow had come mostly to this camp and that it was not going to have an ounce of privacy.

    But... turns out that it was just a Boy Scout group in the group camp which is positioned right inside the gate. So my fear of overcrowding subsided and as I traveled a bit deeper into camp I noticed it wasn't to bad, in fact there were tons of places because this campground has over 100 sites, spread over several loops. This gave me not only a great confidence that I could find something perfect, but also something removed from the sounds of the populated group camp and enjoy a little time away from it all.

    Sites at this camp vary, there are both pull through and back in sites. The strange however, was that online on Receation.gov (where you typically book any sites located on government lands) this campground is known only to be a "group camp". However clearly there are individual sites, and you can access these through the kiosk just inside camp.

    The site I selected had a strange configuration for parking, you park beside the spot, but in a large truck it seemed to be a bit in the way of the road, in my car it would have by far been a bit better fit. I was positioned on a corner which meant I had a lot of space and my campsite had both a picnic table and fire ring with attached grill in addition to the lantern post. Overall minus the parking the site was pretty ideal with big shade trees and a pretty even place to set up a tent.

    I did notice around camp not all sites are created equally, while my site had a nice even space not he table top some of the sites still were utilizing the older tables which were warped from weather.

    TIPS:

    • If you aren't a group wait til you get here to select a site because online there doesn't seem to be a good reservation system for regular campers.

    • If you are a rig which uses solar, the sites on the furthest loops might be a better fit, the first loop of camp is pretty tree covered.

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2018

    Tipps Point Campground — Lake Murray State Park

    Large Open Tent Camping

    On this turn out of the Lake there are three campgrounds, this being the most Tent friendly of the three. There are spaces equipped with electrical connections or primitive sites in an open area which are comparable for tents. Both of these sites allow a wide open feel close to the shore line with plenty of room to move around comfortably.

    After entering Tipp’s point you first find the day use pavilion and vault toilets. Just beyond that on the left is parking for the open tent area which has scattered grills and a couple of community picnic tables set in the open area. This is ideal for groups that are larger or just the person who wants to dry camp.

    to the right are a group of non-primitive sites for RVs and tents. While these are closer together they are not as cluttered feeling as the sites at both the cover or elephant rock. Beyond this point are more RV sites, a shower house and playground.

    This campground when I visited was the least used of the three on this turn out. While there were probably a dozen or so campers in the firSt part of the section if was very wide open feeling. The water levels were pretty high and had encroached upon some of the sites near the shower house while higher level sites remained safe.

    TIPS:

    • If staying in this section in the open camping tent area you might want to bring a fold out table. There are only a couple in this area for group use and to eliminate having to share better safe than sorry.
    • Bring shower shoes. this should be a given but the showers here aren’t terrible but aren’t something you would want to be barefoot in
  • Susan L.
    Jun. 26, 2020

    Tipps Point Campground — Lake Murray State Park

    Campsite trade-offs

    This campground is situated on a peninsula that juts out into Lake Murray. Because of this, there are some great lakeside campsites just steps from the water and no campers on either side of you. The downside is the lakeside campsites are set up on the eastern side of the peninsula and parking is N/S with about 20’ between campers. The campground road runs down the middle of the narrow peninsula with trees on the western side of the road (no sunset views unless you walk to the point). Because of this configuration, it requires parallel parking (like a pull through site but literally parked on side of road). The site I reserved (Site 21) was a mere 3 ft from the road. Not too big of a problem, except that I’m a light sleeper and cars/trucks/RV’s, trucks pulling trailers, motorcycles etc. noisily and regularly drive right by and especially at night this was a problem for me. During the day I was more concerned for the families with kiddos that were scootering and riding bikes in the street.

    The location of this campground is great in proximity to other things in the Park. The Buckhorn trailhead is right in the campground, so easy access to hiking. Trails are well marked and not too difficult. Campground is closer to the Lodge and access back to the main road into the small “town” for supplies. Because the campground is on a peninsula the campground host said that there tends to be a breeze. When I was there a severe storm hit and I can attest to this location being primely located for wind! 

    Note: my understanding was this campground accommodates rigs 30 feet or smaller, but I did see larger RV’s pull in and set up.

    Summary:

    • Site: No 21 level concrete pad with 30 amp electric and water hook up/no sewer, picnic table, fire ring and BBQ grill

    • Shower facilities on site, but closed when I was there due to Covid-19

    • Dump site available

    • Boat landing and pier in campground

    • Little gazebo at the end of the peninsula in campground (nice for watching sunsets)

    • Good sized sandy swim area with designated parking

    • Tent camping area with large parking lot. However, the sites weren’t very private

    • Bike/walking trail to 2 other campgrounds

    • Cons: I felt like I was camped on the side of a road. For this reason, if I were to return, I would chose a site in the area with back in camping. Although these sites aren’t on the water and are closer together, they are at least set off of the road and would be quieter. 

    Lake Murray SP has campgrounds with nicer sites, but Tipp’s Point would do in a pinch.

  • Dave V.
    Nov. 30, 2021

    Buckhorn Campground Loop C — Chickasaw National Recreation Area

    Midweek Early Summer Respite

    Chickasaw National Recreation Area- Buckhorn Area Oklahoma. 

    Site 36 Loop B 

    Continuing our late spring journey west…we ventured to Chickasaw NRA. 

    Stopping in at the beautiful Visitor’s Center at the edge of town, those that assisted us at the information were extremely gracious and helpful, having never visited before. Taking their advice we travelled 7.5 miles south on Rt 177 and turned west on Buckhorn until arriving at the Buckhorn Area campground loops off to the south. 

    Anxious to get out of the car, we settled too quickly on Site 36 Loop B before surveying the three other Loops. There are some really nice and spacious sites out there…especially on C and D. Site 36 Loop B is located amidst six other sites in an open area on Lake of the Arbuckles. Upon setting up camp, we were the solitary campers in Loop B(Tuesday night mid-June) other than the host. 

    Later, another family arrived choosing a nearby lakefront site. It should be noted that this is a busy lake. Powerboats raced from end to end like today was their last day on earth and their choice of blaring music may not be to your liking. So it is not always quiet and tranquil. Pretty popular with the fishermen as well. I witnessed a lot of fishing but not a lot of catching. Once the power boaters, personal watercraft and tubers call it a night, lake of the Arbuckles is supremely tranquil. 

    The lake was as warm as bath water on June 15th, which was surprising…days were 90’s with nights in the 70’s and cloudless skies. 

    Personally, I would choose a more shaded site if we were to spend more than one night. Each Loop B site had a level gravel horseshoe shaped pad. Tents must be within that area. 

    • Each site has a grated fire ring, a lantern pole and a movable picnic table. Tent sites were clearly marked. 

    • Numerous lakefront sites are in a cleared area below the shower house/restrooms and Check-In kiosk…each are visible from the other we no understory or foliage to provide privacy. Those nestled in the woods along the outside perimeter offer much more privacy.

    • Water spigots are sporadically spaced for easy access in the“primitive” loops.

    • Electric/water sites obviously offer those amenities are a bit deeper, more spacious and some have two parking spots. Most of those on Loop D were taken.

    • The loops are separated substantially so that other campers are not seen nor heard from loop to loop. Surprisingly, I could not even locate trails that led from loop to loop.

    • Shower-house/restrooms were very clean and well stocked. Loop B had one shower for the entire loop in both men’s and women’s restrooms…as well as one family shower between the two. On our visit the electrical outlets were not working in the restrooms. Facilities are modern and showers are warm and on a push button timer to conserve water.(men’s-2 sinks/2-stalls, 1-standup, 1-shower)

    • Milton, Our Loop B host, was a pleasant gentleman that was a full time RVer and very knowledgeable of the area.

    • The Check-In Kiosk(located in each loop) was an easy, painless affair IF you have a credit card.

    • Multi-use trails are aplenty in various parts of the NRA. Some lead you by bison, others to waterfalls, and some simply through serene forest. The terrain is undulating so be prepared…especially by bicycle.

    • Traveling north on 177 there is a Bison Viewpoint trail, and if the bison cooperate you’ll be rewarded.

    • Several springs and 1930’s CCC built dams exist creating small waterfalls and refreshing swimming holes on many. There are some springs that are posted“no swimming.” The Travertine Nature Center is also worth a visit providing numerous wildlife dioramas and several live exhibits. NP Rangers possess great knowledge and eager to answer any park questions.

    • Dump station turnoff is 9/10 and 7/10 of a mile from thr campground entrances Primitive campgrounds also exist near the numerous falls and Travertine River closer to the city of Sulphur. Campsites appeared close to the park roadway as we traveled toward the Nature Center.

    • All in all, a wonderful park that needs several days to fully explore.

Guide to Pauls Valley

Tent camping opportunities near Pauls Valley, Oklahoma range from basic primitive sites to more developed camping areas within a 45-minute drive. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F between June and September, making spring and fall ideal camping seasons. Winter camping is possible with nighttime temperatures rarely dropping below freezing for extended periods.

What to do

Fishing at Romulus Lake: The lake provides excellent opportunities for canoe and kayak fishing. According to camper Tristan F., "Great camping, lake is great for canoeing or kayaking."

Trail exploration near River Run: The River Run RV Park and Cabins property spans 80 acres with 3 miles of marked trails. Ashley F. notes, "River access less than a quarter mile away. UTV trails abound. Close to amenities but plenty of nature to explore."

Wildlife viewing: The Lazy H Alpaca Ranch offers unique camping where visitors interact with farm animals. Patty S. shared, "We got to pet the Alpacas and the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company. We camped early Jan and it was cold."

What campers like

Peaceful water settings: Many tent campers appreciate the quieter camping locations. At Honey Creek Campground, Mike C. experienced "a wonderful time although it was windy and cold enjoyed the lake."

Well-maintained tent areas: Several campgrounds feature level tent pads that make setup easier. Brandon M. reports that Guy Sandy Campground has "very well kept tent areas, friendly staff, and beautiful views."

Spacious sites: The campsites at many locations offer ample room for multiple tents. Lisa P. found that at Shawnee Twin Lakes, "Beautiful sunset views and nice, spacious, clean campsites all with fire pits with attached grill! The price per site/night allows for two tents on one site!"

What you should know

Seasonal conditions: Oklahoma's climate affects camping comfort significantly. Crystal C. advises about Guy Sandy, "These sites are not reservable so it is first come first serve. Arrive early during busy times of year to ensure your space."

Facility limitations: Campgrounds vary widely in available amenities. Julie H. noted at Shawnee Twin Lakes, "We did fine tent camping but nothing for electric hook ups. The swimming areas were nice and it was perfect for our boat!!"

Campground rules: Some locations have unexpected restrictions. One camper discovered at North Sentinel that "rooftop tents aren't tents" and reported, "They will call the cops on you in the middle of the night and make you leave."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. James D. mentioned that Shawnee Twin Lakes "has a playground and picnic pavilion which would be good for families."

Swimming areas: During summer months, designated swimming spots provide safer water recreation. According to Julie H., "The swimming areas were nice and it was perfect for our boat!!"

Unique experiences: For families seeking memorable camping, try specialty locations. Kathy at Lazy H Alpaca Ranch has "had their Alpaca Farm for over 10 years" where families can enjoy "sleeping with the Alpacas for a great camping experience you won't forget!"

Tips from RVers

Site selection: RVers should verify site suitability before arrival. Crystal C. observed that Guy Sandy has "sites large enough to easily accommodate rigs of all sizes or tent campers."

Electric hookups: Check for power availability as it varies by location. At Romulus Lake, limited electric hookups are available for campers, though primarily designed for tent camping.

Boat access considerations: If bringing watercraft, verify regulations. Crystal C. cautions, "If you have a boat, make sure your registrations are cleared by the State of Oklahoma before entering the water, this site is a very active site for game wardens to inspect."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Pauls Valley, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Pauls Valley, OK is Guy Sandy Campground — Chickasaw National Recreation Area with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Pauls Valley, OK?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 tent camping locations near Pauls Valley, OK, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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