Waurika Lake spans approximately 10,100 acres along Beaver Creek in south-central Oklahoma, with an earthen dam controlling water levels since the lake's construction in 1977. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers maintains multiple campgrounds around the shoreline at elevations averaging 830 feet above sea level. Lake water levels can fluctuate seasonally by 5-8 feet, affecting campsite conditions particularly in spring months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Wichita Ridge Campground, anglers target walleye, striped bass, crappie and catfish. "Perfect Peace on Waurika Lake... fishing if you're an angler," notes one visitor.
Hiking trails: The trail system offers extensive routes through prairie landscape. "The trail is 13 miles ONE way, so if you decide to hike, take gear and water. It's absolutely stunning," reports a camper at Waurika Primitive Camping.
Boating access: Multiple boat ramps provide lake entry points, though conditions vary with water levels. "This site utilizes an honor system for payment and while I was there for over an hour I didn't notice a single ranger coming to enforcement or check payment," notes a visitor about Kiowa Park II Marina.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer prime wildlife spotting opportunities. A reviewer at COE Waurika Lake Wichita Ridge North mentioned, "When we got up the next morning it was to enjoy seeing a small deer standing in the edge of the lake."
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Many sites offer direct lake access with expansive water views. A visitor to Kiowa Park Campground reported, "Lots of spots on the water with easy access to the water. It's beautifully maintained even the bathrooms are clean. No trash this place is spotless and beautiful and quiet."
Space between sites: The campgrounds feature well-spaced campsites. Another Kiowa Park camper noted, "It's a large campground with lots of space between most sites. It was completely silent only a handful of campers spaced way apart."
Shade coverage: Mature trees provide cooling shade at several locations. A visitor to Moneka Park commented, "This campground is of a small size but it has an amazing personality with huge mature trees which shade the campground so well."
Budget-friendly options: Camping fees remain affordable. "This is a very nice C.O.E. campground... It's a very peaceful, low cost($10.00 to $20.00) and I would recommend this campground," wrote a visitor to Chisholm Trail Ridge Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds close for several months. At Chisholm Trail Ridge Park - Waurika Lake, one reviewer cautioned, "I went to go check out campgrounds around the lake and this one had been recommended by someone in the community of Waurika. Unfortunately when I went out here though it was closed!! Check your visitation in advance for months of operation."
Bathroom conditions vary: Restroom facilities range from improved flush toilets to basic pit toilets. One camper at Moneka Park North stated, "The only issue were the wasp. We always seem to have ants anymore but this was the first of the wasp."
Road conditions: Access roads to some sites present challenges. A visitor to Waurika Primitive Camping warned, "The road to the 3 camping spots are absolutely not easy to get to. If you have a big rig I suggest you take it super slow and when the road comes to a 'Y' take the left and BE CAREFUL!"
Limited amenities: Some areas lack basic facilities. "There are no bathrooms but there is a hiking trail across the highway from the turn to the campground. It has a wonderful toilet and trash can," noted a Waurika Primitive Camping visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kiowa Park offers recreation facilities for children. "Grounds are very clean and well kept, a Ranger lives on sight. Play ground for the kids," reports a visitor.
Insect preparation: Evening hours bring increased insect activity. "Lights out at night, bugs by the millions," warns a Kiowa Park camper from a September visit.
Supply planning: Limited nearby stores means bringing everything needed. "There is a small store about 3 miles from the park entrance. I would still bring in all the supplies you feel you will need," advises a COE Waurika Lake visitor.
Swimming areas: Dedicated swimming beaches are limited to specific locations. A visitor noted that Beaver Creek Landing "isn't the right place to [swim]. There is no swimming beach at this location and it does mention that you cannot swim near the ramp."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for RVs: Consider campground layout carefully for larger rigs. "The sites at this location had shade covers over the picnic tables and were split between back in spaces and pull through sites," notes a visitor to Kiowa Park Campground.
Hookup availability: Check which utilities are available as they vary by location. One Chisholm Trail Ridge camper advised, "Water is only on designated sites so be diligent when searching for a site."
Road navigation challenges: Some areas have narrow access routes. "The sites are small and with the large trees. Larger rigs would not be able to park," warns a Moneka Park visitor about the campground's limitations.
Weather preparation: Rain can significantly impact road conditions. "If you have a big rig I suggest you take it super slow... There was a horrific rain storm while on our stay here so this brought out the mudders! Ruts the size of a VW," reported a Waurika Primitive Camping visitor.
