Best Camping In Oklahoma

It’s a warm summer’s night and the slight breeze is cool and refreshing. You’ve spread out a thick and wide blanket to lie upon and your head rests on your partner’s chest as you look up at the dark sky.

Your current surroundings are illuminated by moonlight and a thousand twinkling stars. You can hear the soft crackle of the campfire beside you and the pitter-patter of paws as your dog comes to nestle beside you on the blanket.

The smell of the smores that you’ve just finished still lingers in the air. It’s almost time for bed, but you just can’t bring yourself to let go of the moment, not just yet. 

Does that sound perfect to you? Me too. And these kinds of experiences are just waiting for you to come and grab them.

So why haven’t you yet? Maybe you’ve just been waiting for the right moment, the time off work, or for the weather to be perfect. Or maybe you just don’t know where to go. 

Well, do not despair, for I have wondered the state looking for the very best places it has to offer. I have found all of those secret spots, the places that create memories that burn bright crystal clear in your mind for decades later.

So what are you waiting for? These are the best camping spots that Oklahoma has to offer, and the perfect time to seek adventure is now. 

Best Camping Spots

Chickasaw National Recreation Area – Sulphur

This area is a camper’s paradise, it’s a real haven of natural beauty. You won’t want to forget your camera at home that’s for sure. It offers up all of the activities that you can come to expect with camping such as hikes, bike rides, boating, and swimming.

But the backdrop to which you’ll do these activities is something out of the ordinary. It truly is a wonder to behold. 

And for our keen fishers, you’ll find a little slice of heaven as you reel in catch from Lake of the Arbuckles. It’s only known as the best fishing lake in all of Oklahoma, no biggie.

But if you prefer being on the move then you’ll want to opt for a hike (or in my case, a very slow walk gawking at the beauty around me) around the forest trails that lead to stunning mineral springs.

And if you love to learn then you’ll need to head on down to the Nature Center which will teach you all about the plentiful wildlife that surrounds you. 

Most camps have access to electricity and water. There are many sites available, as well as comfort stations and showers. Or if you prefer to do old-school camping there are 40 sites without electricity, comfort stations, or showers. 

Beavers Bend State Park – Broken Bow

If you choose to camp at this destination, the best advice I can give you is to set an alarm for just before sunrise.

The Lower Mountain Fork River offers up some unbelievable views at the best of times, but sitting in a camping chair, hands around a flask of hot coffee, and watching the sunrise from over the horizon is a bucket-list experience for sure. 

There are 10 different camping grounds located throughout the state park, each as beautiful as the next. If you’re traveling as a family and looking for lots of fun activities, I’d opt for the Dogwood Campground.

Here you’ll find picnic areas, a playground, and a fishing area. Just a short walk away you’ll also find a stunning sandy beach, a mini-golf course, and paddleboat rentals!! What more could you ask for? 

From any of the camps, you can take a trip to the river where you’ll find canoes and kayaks to rent out. There is also a train ride you can take, and stables for horse riding. And believe it or not, this isn’t all. There are so many activities on offer at Beavers Bend – check it out now! 

Greenleaf State Park – Braggs

This little hidden gem is such a perfect camping spot. Found within the lush mountain terrain of northeastern Oklahoma, this location is the ultimate place for those looking for beauty and fun – lots and lots of fun. 

Ever see options for amazing boat tours and wonderful hiking trails that you’d just die to do, but you can’t get the kids to come along for the day?

Instead of battling against the full-force of a tantrum or giving up that expedition, enroll your kids in the onsight children’s programs that they’ll adore while you explore. 

There’s also an 18-hole mini-golf course, a lake swimming beach, a playground, a picnic area, a nature hut, a boat ramp, and comfort stations.  

Honorable Mentions 

Below you’ll find a few of the other spots that I found that are definitely worth checking out. 

• Sequoyah State Park & Fort Gibson Lake – Hultbert 
• Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge – Lawton
• Illinois River – Tahlequah
• Ouachita National Forest – Hodgen

Final Thoughts

Some of the best memories I have come from camping trips. Stunning views and great times with amazing people. That’s what it’s all about. Getting down and dirty with nature, escaping the real world for even just a moment, and enjoying what is around you. 

All of these locations are so beautiful that honestly, they don’t even feel real. They are such a wonder to behold and give you a real appreciation for the true beauty of nature.

So round up your family, get all your camping gear ready and head off to any of these stunning destinations and I can assure you that you will not be disappointed. 

Bask underneath the moonlight and stars at night, hike and trek through the stunning scenery around you, and take part in the host of activities on offer, and I promise you, you’ll come away with memories that you’ll hold near and dear to you forever.