Camping options near Sulphur, Oklahoma extend beyond the main Chickasaw National Recreation Area campgrounds. The area sits at approximately 1,050 feet elevation in the Arbuckle Mountains, creating a landscape dotted with natural springs, creeks, and limestone formations. Water temperatures in the springs remain a consistent 65°F year-round, providing relief during Oklahoma's hot summers when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
What to do
Swimming in natural springs: Little Niagara in Chickasaw National Recreation Area offers crystal clear, cold water swimming spots. "This spot is a local favorite. The natural spring water is crystal clear and ice cold. The sometimes fast flowing creek offers several beautiful waterfalls you can perch up on and forget about the summer sun," notes Jessica W. about Cold Springs Group Camp.
Explore historic structures: Visit the "castle" ruins at Turner Falls Park. "The trails are awesome, there is even a cave in an off the trail area back behind the bathrooms at the waterfall. There are trails back there that take you up the creek above the waterfall," shares Tyler S. Natalee F. adds, "Be sure to take the time to explore 'the castle' it is Huge and if you can make it to the top you'll be rewarded with a view."
Fishing opportunities: Fish for multiple species in Lake of the Arbuckles. "We caught 3 catfish and 2 crappie. Water was much clearer than other lakes I have been to in Oklahoma," reports Darrin L. about his experience fishing at Buckhorn Campground. Morning hours are particularly active as Jasmine M. notes, "We noticed nearby fish jumping around in the early morning so there's no doubt this is a great area for fishermen."
What campers like
Spacious, shaded sites: The Point Campground features well-separated sites with good tree coverage. "The tent sites are walk-in, not too far from the parking spots. Each are pretty secluded and quiet until Saturday when one of the tent sites decided to play their music loud enough for half of the grounds to hear all day long," describes Erin-Frannie R. about The Point Campground.
Clean facilities: Buckhorn Campground maintains high standards for its amenities. "This campsite is one of the cleanest I have ever visited. The bathrooms are incredibly nice, and the campsite platforms are superb," shares Dusty G. about Buckhorn Campground. Natalie C. confirms this trend at other campgrounds: "The bathrooms were large, clean, and very well maintained. They even have a nice shower."
Wildlife viewing: Deer and other wildlife frequently visit campsites. "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," observes Erin-Frannie R. Tom K. reports, "If you are as 'lucky' as we were, you will have giant raccoons as a nightly visitor."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Check out is not until 2 so you could see a few people trolling for the best sites to reserve and return," explains Crystal C. about Cold Springs Campground. While some campgrounds require advance booking, others operate first-come, first-served with pay kiosks that accept credit cards.
Insect concerns: Ticks can be problematic, especially with pets. "We stayed at 62. Not far from most things. But our site was infested with ticks. We're leaving early because of this," reports Teresa S. Chiggers are also common during summer months, as Brian E. notes: "Chiggers are horrible this time of year."
Weekend crowds: Expect busy conditions at swimming areas, especially on summer weekends. "Busy as can be lots of people. If you like to camp and be secluded this isn't the park. There are a couple great spots but they go fast," warns Zahru A. about Turner Falls Park. For quieter experience, Natalee F. advises, "Don't go on weekends. Sneak a day off and go middle of the week."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: The shallow areas at Central Campground work well for younger swimmers. "Great for tent camping and shallow water swimming," notes Susie M. The area offers "Cold and refreshing [water] after hiking in the heat," according to Randi B.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs offer learning experiences. "For fun we went to one of the ranger lectures about nocturnal wildlife," shares Dusty G. Mandy K. adds, "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."
Kid-friendly amenities: Some private campgrounds offer extensive recreation options. "So much for the whole family to do. Crystal clear swimming pool, large playground, zip line, treehouse, ninja warrior course, dog run area, volleyball, horseshoes," describes Nicole S. about Arbuckle RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require equipment to level RVs properly. "We stayed at Loop C site 56. Great view of the lake, clean restrooms and showers! Just beware if you are camping in an RV, the site is VERY unlevel! We were in a pop up camper and had one tire up off the ground at least 6 inches with our Baleveler," warns Gina H.
Generator restrictions: Be aware of specific hours for generator operation. "The generator hours are 7AM-9AM, 7PM-9PM. We didn't hear a single generator over our 4 days there," reports Erin-Frannie R. This creates quiet camping conditions for tent campers despite proximity to RV sites.
Mixed camping sections: Some campgrounds separate RV and tent sections. "There are four loops and sites for everything from primitive walk in tents to full 50 amp hookups for RVs," explains Gary G. about Buckhorn Campground's various loops, noting connectivity details: "I got 2 bars on Verizon and up to 200Mbs with starlink but I was there in the Spring before the trees fully leaved out."
