Lake Ellsworth and the Wichita Mountains dominate the landscape near Elgin, Oklahoma, with elevations reaching 2,464 feet at Mount Scott. Camping options range from basic tent sites to developed RV facilities with prices typically between $8-24 per night. Several camping areas require permits purchased in advance, with many locations reporting water quality concerns that necessitate bringing your own drinking water.
What to Do
Hiking at Mount Scott: Access this 2,464-foot peak from Doris Campground for panoramic views. "Hiking trails can be accessed directly from Doris Campground, or there are numerous other trails in other areas a short drive away," notes Brad N.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: See prairie dogs, longhorns, and bison in designated viewing areas. "The park has free range elk, buffalo, and longhorn. We heard elk at night," reports Rebecca N. from Doris Campground.
Water recreation: Enjoy fishing, kayaking and swimming at Lake Lawtonka East Campground. "Plentiful campsites with several spots right on the lake! Fairly close rather and no way to book ahead but we definitely enjoyed the location," shares Jenna L.
Mini golf and water sports: Visit Lake Elmer Thomas for family activities. "A nice mini-golf course is located across from the offices. Sand volleyball is next to the beach area. The beach and swimming area is manned by lifeguards from 11:00a-7:00p," explains Dave V.
What Campers Like
Lakeside camping spots: Find prime waterfront sites at Lake Ellsworth. "We stayed at the far end. The sites are nice. Covered picnic table on concrete with charcoal grill and stove tables. Even has a light over the table," reports Ashley H. about Collier Landing.
Wildlife encounters: Experience animals roaming freely near Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Doris Campground. "Deer & turkey were often strolling thru our campsite, undaunted by our presence," says Gary P.
Scenic mountain views: Camp with views of Mount Scott from Lake Lawtonka. "Setup directly next to the lake and had a great view of Mt. Scott at sunset!" shares Ryin J.
Outer loop sites: Select specific campsite locations for better experiences. "Best sites in Loop A: 1, 2, 5, 10, 11, 13, 15. E63 is the only site I liked in the electric loop," recommends Roger W. about Doris Campground.
What You Should Know
Water concerns: Multiple campgrounds report water quality issues. "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," warns Rebecca A. at Doris Campground.
Military noise: Expect artillery training sounds at Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area. "The campground is positioned along the northern side of the Artillery range. Artillery range practice, though sporadic, takes place at any hour of any day," notes Dave V.
Permit requirements: Budget for additional fees beyond camping costs. "Besides having your boat tagged and state fishing licenses, you have to have lake permits. Stop by Ralph's Resort on the other side of the lake to purchase," advises Ashley H. about Lake Ellsworth.
Reservation systems: Understand booking processes vary by location. "Due to COVID all spots require pre-registration online and only self contained vehicles are permitted," reports Sara R.
Tips for Camping with Families
Safety considerations: Buffalo Bob's RV Park offers secure facilities for families. "We came to Lawton to see family for Christmas and this place was very clean with both pull thru and back in sites. It was perfect for being near family for the holiday," recommends Kim S.
Playground access: Multiple playgrounds available at Lake Elmer Thomas. "Playgrounds are located in the RV/Camper loop, outside the beach area and along the tenting area before you reach the cabin rentals," notes Dave V.
Camp setup security: Leave equipment safely at developed campgrounds. "I felt safe setting up my tent and leaving it for the day while our group went out to hike," shares Meaghan V. about Doris Campground.
Wildlife viewing for kids: Watch prairie dogs with children. "There are also groundhogs nearby that the kids enjoy watching," mentions Resa H. at Collier Landing.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Bring extended hoses and cables for some sites. "Electric is on the pad, but the water spigot is 20-30' away," warns Ashley H. about Lake Ellsworth campsites.
Gate access for military bases: Use specific entrances when visiting Military Park Fort Sill. "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," advises Mimi B.
Electrical considerations: Pack adapters for different amperage needs. "All rv sites are 50 amp, so bring an adapter for your 30amp rig," suggests Ashley H. about Lake Lawtonka.
RV dump stations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "No dump station anywhere around the lake," reports Ashley H. about Lake Ellsworth facilities.
