Established Camping
Central Campground — Chickasaw National Recreation Area
Central Campground, near Sulphur, Oklahoma, is a solid choice for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. With its picturesque setting and access to the refreshing Travertine Creek, it’s perfect for a quick dip or a leisurely swim after a day of hiking.
This campground is pet-friendly and offers a laid-back vibe, making it ideal for families and groups. Visitors rave about the excellent hiking trails nearby, and many appreciate the clean facilities, including toilets with running water. As one camper put it, “The star of the campgrounds is the spring-fed water. Cold and refreshing after hiking in the heat.”
While there are no electric or water hookups, the campground provides a rustic experience that many find appealing. The sites are surrounded by trees, offering a bit of privacy and a natural feel. Just keep in mind that it can get busy, especially during peak times, but the organized staff and clean environment help maintain a pleasant atmosphere.
If you’re looking to explore, you’ll find plenty of trails to hike and beautiful scenery to soak in. Whether you’re setting up a tent or bringing an RV, Central Campground is a great spot to unwind and connect with nature.
Description
National Park Service
Chickasaw National Recreation Area
Overview
Central Campground is a family-friendly primitive group campground found in the Platt Historic District of Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Nearby Travertine Creek provides several refreshing, spring-fed swimming areas to escape the summer heat. Other close attractions, such as Little Niagara and the Travertine Nature Center make this campground an ideal location for both beginner and experienced campers. Central Campground is only a few minutes away from the town of Sulphur.
Recreation
Swimming and hiking are among the favorite activities at the campsite. A short walk takes you to Panther Falls, a refreshing swimming area. Nearby hiking trails meander along streams, past cool rushing waterfalls, and on to mineral and freshwater springs.
Natural Features
The springs and streams in Chickasaw originate within a region of Oklahoma characterized by complex geology. Intense faulting, folding, uplift and erosion have combined to form a land surface of gently rolling hills dissected by streams.
Nearby Attractions
Try Little Niagara, a favorite freshwater swimming hole. The Travertine Nature Center is a wonderful resource to view nature exhibits, meet live animals on display, and listen to rangers' presentations. A bison pasture is nearby, so bring the kids and cameras to see the beautiful animals grazing.
Charges & Cancellations
Refunds will not be given due to inclement weather. Please read the official cancellation rules and policies of recreation.gov thoroughly before booking your campsite. Chickasaw National Recreation Area is not responsible for cancellation fees charged by recreation.gov.
Location
Central Campground — Chickasaw National Recreation Area is located in Oklahoma
Directions
From I-35, take Exit #55 and drive towards the city of Davis, OK. Once in Davis, go east on Highway 7 to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area you desire. Drive approximately 8 miles east to Sulphur Sulphur (Jct Hwy 7 and Hwy 177). Turn south (right) for approximately .2 miles on Highway 177 and take the first left. Central Campground is .25 mile east on NE Perimeter Road. Cold Springs Campground is approximately another .4 miles east of Central. The Travertine Nature Center is approximately .9 miles east of Cold Springs.
Address
901 West 1st Street
Sulphur, OK 73086
Coordinates
34.505 N
96.9675 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonAvailable
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 15 min from Oklahoma City
- 1 hr 29 min from Sherman
- 1 hr 34 min from Lawton
- 1 hr 54 min from Wichita Falls