Your Go-To Oklahoma Camping Guide
Craving an escape under the Oklahoma sky? This state is a camper’s dream, offering diverse landscapes from rolling hills and sparkling lakes to dramatic canyons and rugged mountains. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or a first-time tent enthusiast, Oklahoma has something for everyone.
Treat yourself to the experience of waking up to the sunrise over a calm lake or spending an evening sharing stories around a crackling campfire under a canopy of stars. Hike through lush forests, explore hidden caves, or cast a line into a crystal-clear river. Oklahoma’s campgrounds offer a chance to reconnect with nature, create lasting memories, and experience the simple joys of the outdoors.
Best Places To Camp In Oklahoma
Beavers Bend State Park
Renowned for its scenic beauty, the park boasts stunning vistas of Broken Bow Lake, rolling hills, and lush forests. Campers can choose from various campsites, ranging from primitive tent sites to RV hookups with full amenities. Beyond camping, the park offers a plethora of activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can also explore the nearby Natural Falls State Park, which features cascading waterfalls and picturesque trails.
Lake Texoma
Straddling the border between Oklahoma and Texas, Lake Texoma is a massive reservoir that attracts campers seeking a waterfront experience. The lake’s vast shoreline offers numerous campgrounds, catering to various camping styles and budgets. Camping at Lake Texoma allows visitors to enjoy a variety of water-based activities, like boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing. Additionally, the surrounding area provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
Red Rock Canyon State Park
Red Rock Canyon State Park is a geological marvel featuring stunning red sandstone formations, mesas, and canyons. Campers here can experience a unique and scenic landscape, unlike any other in the state. The park offers various campsites, including primitive sites and developed campgrounds with amenities. Hiking, rock climbing, and rappelling are popular activities enjoyed by visitors, along with exploring the park’s scenic overlooks and natural wonders.
Sequoyah State Park
The park encompasses rolling hills, wooded areas, and the scenic Spavinaw Lake. Campers can choose from campsites catering to various preferences, including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. Beyond camping, the park offers numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating on the lake. Visitors can also delve into the park’s rich history, evident in the Sequoyah National Historic Site, which honors the life and work of Sequoyah, the creator of the Cherokee syllabary.
Turner Falls Park
Located near Davis, Oklahoma, Turner Falls Park is a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts seeking a unique camping experience. The park is renowned for its namesake, Turner Falls, the highest waterfall in Oklahoma, cascading down a scenic gorge. Campers can choose from various campsites, with options for tents, RVs, and cabins. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking to the base of the falls, swimming in the refreshing waters, and exploring the surrounding trails.
Things To Do In Oklahoma
Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City, the vibrant capital of Oklahoma, boasts a diverse range of attractions catering to various interests. History buffs can delve into the sobering yet inspiring Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, commemorating the victims of the 1995 bombing. Immerse yourself in the rich Western heritage at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, showcasing art, artifacts, and exhibits chronicling the cowboy and Native American cultures. For a touch of entertainment, explore the Bricktown entertainment district, featuring trendy restaurants, bars, and a lively atmosphere.
Tulsa
The art deco haven of Tulsa offers a unique urban experience. Embark on the Tulsa Art Deco and Architecture Walking Tour to admire the city's distinctive architectural gems, remnants of the 1920s oil boom. Immerse yourself in artistic expression at the Philbrook Museum of Art, housing an impressive collection spanning centuries and cultures. For a unique experience, visit the SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology, showcasing a vast collection of skeletons and exploring the wonders of the human body and animal kingdom.
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Escape the urban landscape and step into the picturesque Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Sprawling over 59,000 acres, the refuge offers a haven for diverse wildlife, including free-roaming American bison herds, majestic longhorns, playful prairie dogs, and coyotes. Hike along scenic trails, marvel at the panoramic views from atop Mount Scott, or simply relax and observe the abundant wildlife in their natural habitat.
Grand Lake o' the Cherokees
Oklahoma's "Green Country" beckons with the expansive Grand Lake o' the Cherokees, the state's largest reservoir. This scenic lake paradise offers a plethora of water-based activities, from boating and fishing to kayaking and swimming. Relax on the sandy shores, explore the vibrant marinas, or cast a line and test your angling skills in the lake's teeming waters.
Chickasaw National Recreation Area
This haven for outdoor enthusiasts boasts stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and a multitude of recreational activities. Hike or bike along scenic trails, camp under a blanket of stars, or explore the refreshing waters of Lake Chickasaw by boat or kayak. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Chickasaw Nation by visiting cultural centers and historical sites.
Talimena Scenic Drive
This designated National Scenic Byway boasts stunning vistas, colorful fall foliage, and unique rock formations. Take a leisurely drive, stopping at scenic overlooks to capture panoramic views, or embark on a hiking or biking adventure on the numerous trails that snake through the mountains.
Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve
This sprawling estate, once owned by oilman Frank Phillips, houses an eclectic collection of Native American artifacts, Western art, and firearms. Explore the expansive grounds, where you can spot bison, elk, deer, and other wildlife roaming freely in a natural setting.
Natural Falls State Park
For a refreshing escape, head to Natural Falls State Park. Cascading down sandstone cliffs, the namesake waterfall offers a picturesque sight and a cool mist on a hot summer day. Hike the scenic trails leading to the falls, explore the lush forests, or take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool located at the park's base.
Blue Whale of Catoosa
A quirky landmark and a nostalgic stop, the Blue Whale of Catoosa is a giant roadside concrete whale built in the 1970s. Originally intended as a restaurant and gift shop, it now stands as a unique piece of Americana, attracting visitors for photo opportunities and a glimpse into the past.
Oklahoma Route 66
Embark on a historic journey along Oklahoma's Route 66, a nostalgic stretch of the iconic Mother Road. Cruise down the highway, stopping at charming towns like Tulsa, Arcadia, and Miami, each with their own unique character and historic landmarks. Explore vintage motels, quirky shops, and local diners, soaking up the atmosphere of this bygone era.
Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden
Spread across 119 acres, the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is a haven for both animal lovers and nature enthusiasts. Encounter over 1,900 animals representing hundreds of species, from majestic lions and playful otters to fascinating reptiles and colorful birds. Explore the beautifully landscaped botanical gardens, featuring vibrant floral displays, serene walking trails, and educational exhibits showcasing diverse plant life.
Oklahoma Aquarium
Dive into the underwater world at the Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks. This impressive facility houses over 350 species of aquatic life, from playful otters and graceful sea turtles to mesmerizing jellyfish and captivating sharks. Immerse yourself in interactive exhibits, explore touch tanks, and learn about the vital role of conservation in protecting our oceans and marine ecosystems.
Frequently Asked Questions
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