Chickasaw National Recreation Area encompasses 9,888 acres of forested hills and natural springs around Sulphur, Oklahoma. Water temperatures in the spring-fed areas maintain a consistent 65°F year-round, providing cooling relief during hot summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though services may be limited during winter months.
What to Do
Springs exploration: Little Niagara in Cold Springs Campground features crystal clear water with multiple swimming areas. "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 Campground.
Historical sites: Visit the historic castle ruins near Turner Falls Park. "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," recommends Natalee F. from Turner Falls Park.
Cycling routes: A bicycle trail runs along Rock Creek connecting to Little Niagara. "A bicycle trail runs along the creek towards little Niagara. 2-3 miles long," notes Kathryn O. about Rock Creek Campground.
Cultural center: The nearby Chickasaw Cultural Center hosts educational programs and seasonal festivals. "Great educational programs on nature and Native American history," mentions Lynn G. about her Chickasaw National Recreation Area experience.
What Campers Like
Secluded tent sites: The Point Campground offers walk-in tent sites with privacy not found at other locations. "We found all of the tent sites at The Point were empty... The tent sites are walk-in, not too far from the parking spots. Each are pretty secluded and quiet," explains Erin-Frannie R. about The Point Campground.
Clean facilities: Restrooms are well-maintained throughout most campgrounds. "The bathrooms were large, clean, and very well maintained. They even have a nice shower. It's quiet, heavily wooded, private enough from other campsites, and felt very safe," reports Natalie C. about The Point Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to spot native animals. "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," shares Erin-Frannie R.
Lake access: Many sites at Buckhorn Campground Loop C provide direct lake access. "Our site was wonderful and about 50ft from the water. The site itself was well shaded throughout the day and was fairly surrounded by trees," notes Jasmine M. about Buckhorn Campground.
What You Should Know
Seasonal crowds: Summer weekends bring heavy visitation. "As everyone else has said, crowds here are the worst. Don't go on weekends. It simply won't be worth it. Sneak a day off and go middle of the week," advises Natalee F. regarding Turner Falls Park.
Generator restrictions: Limited generator hours at The Point Campground. "The generator hours are 7AM-9AM, 7PM-9PM. We didn't hear a single generator over our 4 days there," reports Erin-Frannie R.
Cell coverage gaps: Limited connectivity in most areas. "There is NO cell or internet signal other than one sweet spot by the bathrooms, so you may get a surge of texts and missed call notifications while you're doing your business," notes Erin-Frannie R.
Tick awareness: Ticks are prevalent during warm months. "We stayed at 62. Not far from most things. But our site was infested with ticks. We're leaving early because of this. (We brought the dog)," warns Teresa S. about Cold Springs Group Camp.
Tips for Camping with Families
Junior Ranger program: Free educational activities available for children. "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," shares Mandy K. about Rock Creek Campground.
Water safety: Creek depths vary significantly. "Bring water shoes" is recommended by multiple reviewers including Jasmine M., who notes "Nearby swimming areas at Little Niagara and Travertine Creek were very packed during the day, so we only visited during the early morning when the water was very cold."
Playground access: Arbuckle RV Resort offers extensive play areas. "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.
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Sulphur: Most campgrounds allow leashed pets with specific rules. "We camped here in November and was not at all prepared for how cold it was at night," notes Hannah F. regarding Turner Falls Park, which offers some of the most pet-friendly campgrounds near Sulphur.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV sites often require significant adjustment. "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 we're in a pop up camper and had one tire up off the ground at least 6 inches with our Baleveler," warns Gina H.
Large rig considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate big RVs. Arbuckle RV Resort offers accessible sites for larger vehicles. "Easy access from highway, with paved roads to entry, all gravel interior roads and all gravel parking sites with lots of trees and fairly good grass. Good 50 amp W-S-E hookups," notes James G.
Hookup variations: Electric and water hookups differ widely between campgrounds. "All at back of site. Other sites had hookups in middle," explains James G. about Arbuckle RV Resort, providing specific details for those setting up RVs.
