These 9 Rustic Spots In Oklahoma Are Extraordinary For Camping
Who’s ready to pitch a tent and camp out at one of Oklahoma’s extraordinary camping sites? Or maybe you’re one that prefers camping in an RV or dispersed camping in Oklahoma? Either way, we found 9 spots for backcountry camping in Oklahoma that will delight both groups of adventure seekers. So get those sleeping bags, marshmallows, and supplies ready because these beautiful camping spots are calling your name. Get ready for some primitive camping in Oklahoma.
Located in Oklahoma's panhandle, Black Mesa State Park not only boasts the highest point in the state (4,973 ft.), but it also has a unique topography - black lava rock-coated mesas and a southwestern feel. The hiking trails offer stunning views of the area that you won't find anywhere else in the state. Many astronomers flock to Black Mesa as it offers some of the darkest nighttime skies in the country. The camping facility offers 34 RV sites with water and electric hookups, along with 23 tent sites. Camping is allowed in the state park, but not within the nature preserve area.
Get an overview of what you’ll find at this glorious park:
The stunning backdrop of the red canyon walls makes Red Rock Canyon a prime camping spot in west central Oklahoma. The park has lots of hiking trails and is best known for rappelling. The camping site offers RV sites, primitive tent sites, and plenty of picnic areas. It is recommended to only bring RVs less than 40 ft. due to the steep and winding roads.
For a campground close enough to the city but far enough to feel secluded, visit Lake Thunderbird State Park near Norman. The park has all the water activities on Lake Thunderbird and the park offers many outdoor recreational activities to keep the whole family happy, including equestrian trails, a nature center, an archery range, and several hiking trails. The campgrounds offer 200 RV sites with 30 full hookups and many primitive campsites. Restroom facilities and picnic shelters are also available to visitors.
Take a trip to Grand Lake and explore Honey Creek State Park for a prime camping location in Grove. The 38-acre park offers RV sites with lake views, 100 tent sites, a fishing dock, a swimming pool, picnic tables, and much more.
Lake Eufaula, the largest lake in Oklahoma, offers a wide variety of activities to make your camping trip enjoyable. Boat rentals, marinas, fishing, boat ramps, a nature center, ATV riding trails, hunting, hiking, and biking are just a few of Eufaula's amenities and activities. RV and tent camping can be found all around the park, some with beautiful lake views.
Located along the shores of Lake Altus-Lugert in southwestern Oklahoma, Quartz Mountain Nature Park offers 5 campgrounds that include 119 RV sites and 99 primitive campsites. The area also has an amusement park, hiking trails, fishing, boating, and rock climbing.
If you're looking to fish and camp, Kaw Lake might just be the perfect place for you. Kaw Lake is known for producing some of the largest catfish in Oklahoma. Park your RV or pitch your tent at Bear Creek Cove Campground for lakeside camping that offers all the amenities.
Greenleaf State Park has been nominated as "Park of the Year" numerous times due to its beautiful area and friendly staff. Greenleaf has 5 camping areas and includes an upper and lower section in the park. RV and tent camping are both popular, so book reservations ahead of time. Greenleaf also offers some of the best hiking in the state and has trails for all skill levels.
Alabaster State Park is famous for its gypsum cave - the largest one in the country open to the public - but it's also a great spot to go camping. The park offers RV and tent camping with all the amenities campers are looking for. You'll also enjoy the soothing sounds of the rushing water from a little stream nearby the campground. Make sure to bring all the necessary supplies, as the campground is in a remote area.
217036 State Hwy 50A, Freedom, OK 73842, USA
Where’s your favorite place for primitive camping in Oklahoma? Take a look at other camping spots we’ve featured at Only In Oklahoma. If you prefer more comfort, take a look at these amazing glamping spots in Oklahoma.
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The OIYS Visitor Center
The Natural Beauty of Oklahoma
April 10, 2023
William Suphan
What are some bucket list natural wonders in Oklahoma?
Some bucket list natural wonders in Oklahoma include:
Turner Falls State Park. You’ll find this idyllic spot in the Arbuckle Mountains a short distance from Davis. This 77-foot-tall waterfall is one of the tallest in the state.
Little Sahara State Park. You’ll see how this place got its name when you see the sand dunes stretching over 1,600 acres.
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. This refuge was established in 1901 and contains free-range buffalo, prairie dogs, Texas longhorn cattle, and other wildlife.
Chickasaw National Recreation Area. This area near Sulphur has mineral waters, beautiful streams, and many boating and swimming spots.
Ashley has lived in Oklahoma for 25 years and is the Oklahoma staff writer for onlyinyourstate.com. When she isn't exploring Oklahoma, she enjoys visiting the beaches of California.