Waurika, Oklahoma sits at an elevation of 920 feet with average summer temperatures reaching 93°F. The area receives approximately 31 inches of rainfall annually, creating seasonal variations in camping conditions. Yurt camping near Waurika offers climate-controlled options during extreme weather periods while providing access to the diverse ecosystems of southern Oklahoma.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Lake Arrowhead State Park Campground features flat, mowed grass trails that form part of their disc golf system. According to one visitor, "They have a very nice disc golf course and the 'trails' are part of that system."
Wildlife viewing: Moneka Park at Waurika Lake provides opportunities to observe local wildlife in a peaceful setting. A camper noted, "I absolutely love going here to camp! There's like never anyone there, so it's always quiet."
Prairie dog watching: Visit Lake Arrowhead State Park for an unusual wildlife viewing opportunity. "Prairie dogs inhabit the eastern half of the campground. Awesome creatures to watch for hours," reports one reviewer who spent time observing these social animals.
Water recreation: Wichita Falls RV Park offers water-based activities with unique features. A visitor mentioned, "The park is on the Wichita River, has lots of ducks and geese that like the pond there and there are lots of kitschy things around the park."
What campers like
Quiet camping environments: Moneka Park at Waurika Lake provides solitude rarely found at busier campgrounds. One camper shared, "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."
Family bathrooms: For those seeking cleaner facilities during their yurt camping trip near Waurika, Oklahoma, Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort Wichita Falls excels in this area. A visitor emphasized, "Deserving of Texas Campground of the year award! Great amenities and tons of activities! Family bathrooms are first class!"
Scenic mountain views: When staying in yurts or other accommodations, Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area provides spectacular vistas. A camper noted, "log home rentals are on a small peninsula with great views of Mount Scott and Lake Elmer Thomas."
Winter accessibility: Most campgrounds in the Waurika region maintain year-round operations, with Lake Arrowhead State Park specifically mentioned as being open "All year" according to their official season information.
What you should know
Military training activity: When considering yurt camping options near Waurika, be aware that Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area is located on a military base with ongoing operations. A camper warns, "Biggest con was absolutely no warning on their site that there is training going on all around the CG. If you have a Veteran with PTSD like I do prepare him/her that they shoot howitzer rounds at any given time."
Reservation systems: Some parks may not honor specific site reservations. At Lake Elmer Thomas, "You can reserve a spot online but they will not save your spot for you. I visit yearly and have never gotten the spot I reserved."
Limited shade: Several campgrounds in the region have minimal tree cover. At Lake Arrowhead State Park, one camper observed that sites have "no trees, sites are very close together."
Gate access changes: For military installations, always verify current entry points. For Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area, "Do not use Letra Gate. It's closed. Ignore GPS and go to Apache Gate. Better yet set GPS for Apache Gate."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Red River Rose RV Resort offers multiple water features for families. A camper noted they have a "Fishing pond, fishing/swimming pond with water slides, and a swimming pool. They also have a separate COI pond."
Overnight preparation: When staying in cabins at Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area, bring all necessary supplies. A visitor advised, "At the time of this review, you must bring your own bedding linens/blankets, towels, etc. I would also recommend packing extra eating utensils, condiments and any other items that you would take camping."
Activity scheduling: Schedule family activities according to campground routines. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, campers appreciate that "They even finish off every night with a marshmallow roast!"
Capacity limitations: Verify actual sleeping capacity for yurts and cabins. At Lake Elmer Thomas, a reviewer found that their cabin "says will sleep 4…inaccurate. One full size bed and a small futon will sleep two average-sized adults and one small child in marginal comfort."
Tips from RVers
Propane availability: Red River Rose RV Resort provides on-site propane refill service. A recent visitor mentioned this as a "big plus" for extended stays.
Noise considerations: When selecting a site at campgrounds near highways, prepare for ambient noise. At Red River Rose RV Resort, a reviewer noted, "Be ready for highway noise and the occasional train whistle."
Site features: Wichita Falls RV Park offers specific amenities for RVers. A camper detailed, "The pads are gravel with a paved pad for picnic table. There are a lot of pull through sites that are plenty long for big rigs and not tight together."
Connectivity options: For those needing to stay connected during their yurt camping trips near Waurika, Oklahoma, some parks offer reliable services. At Wichita Falls RV Park, a visitor reported they have "FHU, great cable and very decent WiFi. Verizon cell service was 4G 4 bars."
