Cabin camping near Sulphur, Oklahoma centers around Lake Murray State Park and the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. The region sits within the Arbuckle Mountains, with elevations ranging from 850 to 1,400 feet. Lake Murray's water clarity distinguishes it from other Oklahoma lakes, with visibility extending 4-5 feet in many areas.
What to do
Hiking trails: Central Campground in Chickasaw National Recreation Area offers access to numerous trails. "Excellent hiking trails. Really nice area of Oklahoma. Exceptional trails," notes one visitor to Central Campground.
Cave exploration: Turner Falls Park features caves visitors can explore beyond the main attractions. "There is even a cave in an off the trail area back behind the bathrooms at the waterfall. Stay in the wash out area and hike up a ways and than off to your left you climb this hill rock boulder up to the cave," reports a reviewer.
Swimming in clear water: The water temperature remains cooler than expected, even during warmer months. "Crystal clear water," notes one Turner Falls visitor, while another emphasizes the temperature: "COLD water. 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."
Off-season visits: Consider visiting during fall or winter for more seclusion. "We camped here in November and was not at all prepared for how cold it was at night," warns one Turner Falls visitor, while another visitor to Buzzards Roost mentioned they "got up with the sun and beat everyone else to the boat launch area."
What campers like
Scenic viewpoints: Buzzards Roost Campground features premium lakefront sites. "Our tent site was at the point and provided us with great views of the marina, and Tucker Tower. There is plenty of parking and the tent pads were nice and level with plenty of space for larger tents," reports one camper.
Water quality: Unlike many Oklahoma lakes with reddish-brown water, Lake Murray offers clear water. One Buzzards Roost visitor noted: "The water and surroundings were beautiful and even for a busy holiday weekend it didn't feel too busy or crowded."
Waterfront access: Many campsites allow direct water access. "The spot had a small little sandy beach just perfect for fishing & launching a kayak," reports a visitor to Cedar Grove Campground. Another camper adds: "I fell asleep to the sound of waves lapping at the lakeshore. Sublime."
Cabin alternatives: While cabins book quickly, other accommodation options exist. "Turner Falls is amazing place that has a lot of hiking great waterfall and swimming. Remember make sure that you buy your tickets ahead of time because it gets so packed on the weekends nobody can get in," advises one visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Weather changes dramatically between seasons. "This was my first stop on a 4,000-mile trip from NW Arkansas to California and back. The weather was cool and so not many bugs. Since this was a water-facing spot, I would consider the weather when booking," notes a Cedar Grove camper.
Booking requirements: Secure spots early, especially for holiday weekends. A Tipps Point Campground visitor shares: "Can't beat this site for $29/night. The sites where we were at are a bit close together. We were just happy there was a last-minute cancellation on their website allowing us to be here otherwise it was all booked up for the weekend."
Utilities placement: Hookups can be unusually distant from sites. "We did have to borrow a water hose," notes a Cedar Grove camper, while another reports "the water hookup was nearly 70' from us."
Crowds: Popular areas become extremely busy during peak seasons. "As everyone else has said, crowds here are the worst. Not only does it just get busy: the crowds here are particular crude, litter, loud, and generally unpleasant. Don't go on weekends. It simply won't be worth it. Sneak a day off and go middle of the week," advises one Turner Falls visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations with adequate space between neighbors. A Tipps Point camper noted: "Bathrooms good. Access the water was close. Lake Murray is one of the more clear lakes in Oklahoma."
Activity planning: The area offers various family-friendly activities. "We went over to the mini golf & water sport area which was really neat! If you want to rent a boat or jet skis I recommend booking that FAR in advance," advises a Cedar Grove visitor.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playgrounds. "My family has camped, or 'Day Camped,' for birthdays, distant relative visits, etc. for years. Along ice cold Travertine Creek, quick dips or extended swims are mere steps away! Plenty of hiking trails nearby as well," shares a Central Campground visitor.
Wildlife observation: Children can observe local wildlife. "Seen some deer after we got rained out and spent a whole day in the tent with the family," mentions a Turner Falls reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on shade availability. A Cedar Grove camper advises: "We loved the shade and the trees. Perfect for the heat. I think any of the sites in the 20s would be good. We have a toyhauler with patios and it was a tight fit to put them out with the trees though."
Arrival timing: Early arrival improves setup experience. "Even if you reserve a space arrive early. With this camp filling up the way it tends to navigating can be difficult," warns an experienced camper.
Utilities management: Plan for potential hookup limitations. "The site I reserved 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," reports a Tipps Point visitor.
