Camping opportunities near Waurika, Oklahoma center around Waurika Lake, a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoir spanning 10,100 acres at normal elevation. The lake's water level fluctuates seasonally, affecting shoreline access and camping conditions throughout the year. Most camping areas sit at approximately 950 feet above sea level, creating relatively flat campsites with open views across the lake.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Waurika Lake offers accessible fishing without needing a boat. "I would guess the weekends could be crowded. You might want to rethink hunting season," notes a camper at Waurika Primitive Camping, where bank fishing is popular and convenient from campsites.
Hiking the lakeside trail: The trail near Waurika Lake extends 13 miles one way. "It is 13 miles ONE way, so if you decide to hike, take gear and water. It's absolutely stunning," advises a visitor to Waurika Primitive Camping. The trail offers wildlife viewing opportunities and lake vistas.
Kayaking and small boat activities: Launch directly from shore at several locations. "There is a great area to put the kayaks in and enjoy the lake. If you want to fish I guess you could do it right from the bank and set out in your small boat. No boat ramp," explains a camper at Waurika Primitive Camping.
Wildlife observation: Early morning provides the best wildlife viewing opportunities. A visitor to COE Waurika Lake Wichita Ridge North reports, "When we got up the next morning it was to enjoy seeing a small deer standing in the edge of the lake. Didn't seem afraid of us."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites for privacy. At Kiowa Park Campground, "Sites are spaced about 100 ft apart, lots of privacy. Very good place to spend a few days," according to a recent visitor.
Quiet atmosphere: Less-visited campgrounds provide peaceful settings. "I absolutely love going here to camp! There's like never anyone there, so it's always quiet and we don't have to worry about people starting crap for no reason," shares a camper at Moneka Park.
Waterfront camping: Direct lake access ranks high among campers. "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," notes a Kiowa Park Campground visitor who adds, "I basically have a private beach."
Night sky viewing: The relative isolation creates excellent stargazing conditions. "Lights out at night, bugs by the millions," reports a Kiowa Park Campground camper, highlighting the contrast between insect activity and dark skies.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to primitive areas requires caution. "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!" warns a visitor to Waurika Primitive Camping.
Seasonal operations affect availability: Many campgrounds close during off-season months. A visitor to Chisholm Trail Ridge Park advises, "Check your visitation in advance for months of operation at this campground along with others."
Water spigot locations vary: Not all sites have direct water access. "Water is only on designated sites so be diligent when searching for a site," notes a Chisholm Trail Ridge camper.
Bathrooms range from modern to primitive: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Bathrooms are old and moderately cared for," mentions a Chisholm Trail Ridge visitor, while another camper cautions about a hiking trail toilet: "Do not go in there."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. "Grounds are very clean and well kept, a Ranger lives on sight. Play ground for the kids," notes a visitor to Kiowa Park Campground.
Swimming considerations: Beach areas vary in quality. "The beach is very muddy. Not too much sand. It does not stink. There are a lot of Fish, Birds and Clams," reports a camper at Wichita Ridge Campground.
Wildlife learning opportunities: The lake ecosystem offers educational experiences. "There is a nice open meadow feel because the center of the campground is open. Campsites are around the outside edge," describes a visitor to Moneka Park, noting the natural setting that supports wildlife viewing.
Seasonal insect awareness: Prepare for bugs during warmer months. "The only issue were the wasp. We always seem to have ants anymore but this was the first of the wasp," warns a COE Waurika Lake Wichita Ridge North camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all campgrounds accommodate big 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, adding, "Campsites were pretty large and spread out."
Power hookup availability: Electrical service varies between campgrounds. "All sites have either 30 or 50 amp service. Water is only on designated sites," advises a Chisholm Trail Ridge camper.
Pull-through site limitations: Some sites have tight turns. "Pull-through sites are for shorter RVs as they are a tightly curved," explains a visitor to Kiowa Park II Marina.
Leveling requirements: Site conditions affect setup. "The RV parking pads are paved and were level. The sites are spacious," reports a Kiowa Park II Marina camper.
