Chickasaw National Recreation Area dominates the camping landscape around Sulphur, Oklahoma, with multiple developed campgrounds spread across the region. Buckhorn Campground, located on Lake of the Arbuckles, offers both primitive and electric/water sites for tents and RVs, while The Point Campground provides year-round access with similar amenities. Turner Falls Park, situated in nearby Davis, expands accommodation options with cabins and yurts alongside traditional camping areas. Most campgrounds in the area feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to restrooms, with several offering direct lake access for fishing, swimming, and boating activities.
Camping in the Sulphur area follows seasonal patterns, with many campgrounds operating from March through November, though some like The Point remain open year-round. Summer months bring higher temperatures and increased visitation, particularly at waterfront locations and swimming areas. Reservations are strongly recommended for developed sites, especially during weekends and holidays when campgrounds frequently reach capacity. Many campsites require advance booking through Recreation.gov, with prices typically ranging from $14-22 per night depending on amenities. A visitor commented, "This is a beautiful COE campground on the Lake of the Arbuckles near Sulphur, OK in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. There's a variety of tent and RV sites from lakeside to sites enclosed in trees."
Lakefront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with sites offering water views and swimming access being particularly sought after. Buckhorn Campground's Loop C features some of the most popular sites, providing electric hookups, water, and views over Lake of the Arbuckles. Campers frequently mention the clear water quality compared to other Oklahoma lakes, making swimming and fishing major attractions. The region's natural springs and small waterfalls create additional recreation opportunities beyond traditional lake activities. Several campgrounds provide easy access to hiking trails throughout the recreation area, including paths that lead to bison viewing areas. One camper noted, "The campground is tucked into a cove of Lake Murray and is down the road from the dam. There are some very nice walk-in tent camping sites where you could walk down to the rocky lake edge and swim."
$20 - $30 / night
"This is one of our favorite tent and trailer camping locations in Oklahoma."
"General: Buckhorn is one of six campgrounds in Chickasaw NRA (Central, Cold Springs, and Rock Creek are located in the Platt historic district closer to the town of Sulphur."
$15 - $175 / night
"Try to visit on weekday if possible, the weekend draws crowds which take away from the scenery and positive experience."
"The camping is primitive and we had access to a small natural pool area near falls. However, the rains messed up our tent and the bathrooms didn’t work."
$20 - $30 / night
"This is a beautiful COE campground on the Lake of the Arbuckles near Sulphur, OK in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area."
"I checked in on a Sunday and was pretty much alone except for one other site near me until Friday evening when the place filled up QUICK."
$20 - $50 / night
"I selected the Cold Springs Campground on this trip because its great location and access to the many falls of the area."
"Nice family campground close to ‘Little Niagara Falls’ where the kiddos can play in the Creek and falls. We went on weekend and it was very busy."
$20 - $50 / night
"Pretty crowded the camp spots are pretty close to each other and small there is definitely nicer ones close by."
"But... turns out that it was just a Boy Scout group in the group camp which is positioned right inside the gate."
$30 - $50 / night
"Excellent trails. Really nice area of Oklahoma."
"Along ice cold Travertine Creek, quick dips or extended swims are mere steps away! Plenty of hiking trails nearby as well."
$35 - $50 / night
"Easy access from highway, with paved roads to entry, all gravel interior roads and all gravel parking sites with lots of trees and fairly good grass. Parked at Site #37. Good 50 amp W-S-E hookups."
"There are four loops and sites for everything from primitive walk in tents to full 50 amp hookups for RVs."
"I probably have the best spot of all four of the campgrounds back here with a view of the lake in the flat site. But all of them are remote, a nice and spaces between them."
"Of the campgrounds around the water, this one is perhaps one of the more busy. When visiting we noted numerous boat trailers just waiting for their owners to return to them."
$50 / night
"I choose a very specific campsite if I can because of a secret trail that leads me down to the creek to a swimming hole and a cave that Jesse James himself used to hide in."
ScoutLots of activities boat/ horseback riding/hiking. We Just stopped on our way from Kansas City to Austin. Very quiet in March. Not sure about the rest of the time.
ScoutLove our stay at Lake Murray. The park was very quiet while we visited. We opted for a back in sit along the lake. The site was plenty big enough for our 27 ft trailer and tow vehicle.
LegendThe location is great. The view of the lake is great. And there's access down below for boats, but this campground disclosed and it looks like it has been for a while, so plan accordingly.
LegendUnique campground covering a hill, but with numerous views of the lake. Really? Like the walk in tent sites, I think they're quiet and private and really well laid out. Has all the amenities of formal campground, including a very nice bathroom.
LegendI'm the only camper here and it's february and it's perfect for me. I can't imagine what it must be during the high season. The campsites are close, not necessarily flat, not necessarily private. There's trash and picnic tables and a bathroom, but no showers. No electricity anywhere either. This is meant for tent campers or very small campers. Not much else could get in and get around the corners. Last it is the center of everything, so all that you want to see is close to it and pretty much within walking distance.
LegendI probably have the best spot of all four of the campgrounds back here with a view of the lake in the flat site. But all of them are remote, a nice and spaces between them. The bathrooms are wonderful.
RangerI did a backpacking trip here a few years back and don’t remember anything too special about the campsite although the water level for the lake was something like 20 ft lower than normal so my friends and I were able to walk out on the lake bed where it would’ve normally been underwater
LegendThe campground host was very nice. Checked on me, made sure I had everything I needed. I happened to be here in the winter and because of a deep freeze coming. They just shut the water off to the park. There are two sides, the a side which is electric and the b side which is primitive. Both have great views of the lake and services.
LegendI would bet it is nuts in the summer if it was full but I am the only one here right now. They have a spot for everyone from tent to rv to full hookups and the price is very reasonable. See the videos for more.
Camping options near Sulphur, Oklahoma extend beyond the main Chickasaw National Recreation Area campgrounds. The area sits at approximately 1,050 feet elevation in the Arbuckle Mountains, creating a landscape dotted with natural springs, creeks, and limestone formations. Water temperatures in the springs remain a consistent 65°F year-round, providing relief during Oklahoma's hot summers when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Swimming in natural springs: Little Niagara in Chickasaw National Recreation Area offers crystal clear, cold water swimming spots. "This spot is a local favorite. The natural spring water is crystal clear and ice cold. The sometimes fast flowing creek offers several beautiful waterfalls you can perch up on and forget about the summer sun," notes Jessica W. about Cold Springs Group Camp.
Explore historic structures: Visit the "castle" ruins at Turner Falls Park. "The trails are awesome, there is even a cave in an off the trail area back behind the bathrooms at the waterfall. There are trails back there that take you up the creek above the waterfall," shares Tyler S. Natalee F. adds, "Be sure to take the time to explore 'the castle' it is Huge and if you can make it to the top you'll be rewarded with a view."
Fishing opportunities: Fish for multiple species in Lake of the Arbuckles. "We caught 3 catfish and 2 crappie. Water was much clearer than other lakes I have been to in Oklahoma," reports Darrin L. about his experience fishing at Buckhorn Campground. Morning hours are particularly active as Jasmine M. notes, "We noticed nearby fish jumping around in the early morning so there's no doubt this is a great area for fishermen."
Spacious, shaded sites: The Point Campground features well-separated sites with good tree coverage. "The tent sites are walk-in, not too far from the parking spots. Each are pretty secluded and quiet until Saturday when one of the tent sites decided to play their music loud enough for half of the grounds to hear all day long," describes Erin-Frannie R. about The Point Campground.
Clean facilities: Buckhorn Campground maintains high standards for its amenities. "This campsite is one of the cleanest I have ever visited. The bathrooms are incredibly nice, and the campsite platforms are superb," shares Dusty G. about Buckhorn Campground. Natalie C. confirms this trend at other campgrounds: "The bathrooms were large, clean, and very well maintained. They even have a nice shower."
Wildlife viewing: Deer and other wildlife frequently visit campsites. "When the sun starts setting the wildlife start to appear. 3 deer passed right by our campsite with no fear. And I watched a family of squirrels having a good day in a tree we had our tarp tied to," observes Erin-Frannie R. Tom K. reports, "If you are as 'lucky' as we were, you will have giant raccoons as a nightly visitor."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Check out is not until 2 so you could see a few people trolling for the best sites to reserve and return," explains Crystal C. about Cold Springs Campground. While some campgrounds require advance booking, others operate first-come, first-served with pay kiosks that accept credit cards.
Insect concerns: Ticks can be problematic, especially with pets. "We stayed at 62. Not far from most things. But our site was infested with ticks. We're leaving early because of this," reports Teresa S. Chiggers are also common during summer months, as Brian E. notes: "Chiggers are horrible this time of year."
Weekend crowds: Expect busy conditions at swimming areas, especially on summer weekends. "Busy as can be lots of people. If you like to camp and be secluded this isn't the park. There are a couple great spots but they go fast," warns Zahru A. about Turner Falls Park. For quieter experience, Natalee F. advises, "Don't go on weekends. Sneak a day off and go middle of the week."
Water activities: The shallow areas at Central Campground work well for younger swimmers. "Great for tent camping and shallow water swimming," notes Susie M. The area offers "Cold and refreshing [water] after hiking in the heat," according to Randi B.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs offer learning experiences. "For fun we went to one of the ranger lectures about nocturnal wildlife," shares Dusty G. Mandy K. adds, "Don't forget: kids can take part in the FREE Junior Ranger program through the Travertine Center. Upon completion of a super easy and informative booklet, kiddos are sworn in as junior ranger and receive a patch and a badge."
Kid-friendly amenities: Some private campgrounds offer extensive recreation options. "So much for the whole family to do. Crystal clear swimming pool, large playground, zip line, treehouse, ninja warrior course, dog run area, volleyball, horseshoes," describes Nicole S. about Arbuckle RV Resort.
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require equipment to level RVs properly. "We stayed at Loop C site 56. Great view of the lake, clean restrooms and showers! Just beware if you are camping in an RV, the site is VERY unlevel! We were in a pop up camper and had one tire up off the ground at least 6 inches with our Baleveler," warns Gina H.
Generator restrictions: Be aware of specific hours for generator operation. "The generator hours are 7AM-9AM, 7PM-9PM. We didn't hear a single generator over our 4 days there," reports Erin-Frannie R. This creates quiet camping conditions for tent campers despite proximity to RV sites.
Mixed camping sections: Some campgrounds separate RV and tent sections. "There are four loops and sites for everything from primitive walk in tents to full 50 amp hookups for RVs," explains Gary G. about Buckhorn Campground's various loops, noting connectivity details: "I got 2 bars on Verizon and up to 200Mbs with starlink but I was there in the Spring before the trees fully leaved out."
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Sulphur Springs camping areas?
Camping areas around Sulphur Springs offer various amenities depending on the campground. The Point Campground — Chickasaw National Recreation Area features 50/30/20 amp electrical service, water hookups, mostly level sites with easy back-in access, clean shower facilities, and an accessible dump station. Sites range from lakeside locations to spots enclosed in trees. At Do Drop Inn RV Resort, amenities include walking distance access to Lake Texoma and various outdoor activities. Many campgrounds in the area provide comfort stations with restrooms, though availability and cleanliness may vary seasonally.
Where are the best camping spots in Sulphur, Oklahoma?
Sulphur offers excellent camping options, particularly within Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Buckhorn Campground Loop C — Chickasaw National Recreation Area is highly rated for tent and trailer camping with hookups, restrooms, and showers. It provides beautiful sunset views over Lake of the Arbuckles. For RV enthusiasts, By The Lake RV Park & Resort offers a family-owned experience with easy I-35 access in a peaceful country setting near Lake Murray. Both locations provide convenient access to hiking trails and water recreation opportunities that make Sulphur a popular camping destination.
Can you camp near Little Niagara Falls in Sulphur, Oklahoma?
Yes, you can camp near Little Niagara Falls within Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Cold Springs Campground — Chickasaw National Recreation Area is located near the crystal-clear, ice-cold natural spring water that feeds the falls. This campground is popular for its proximity to several beautiful waterfalls where visitors can cool off during hot summer days. Another option is Rock Creek Campground Group Camp — Chickasaw National Recreation Area, which offers access to the creek via trails that lead to swimming holes. Be aware that these popular areas can get crowded, especially during peak seasons.
Keep Exploring
