Oklahoma offers a variety of camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. From free dispersed camping on public lands to scenic campgrounds near Tulsa and Oklahoma City, there are plenty of places to go car camping in the state. In this article, I will guide you through the best spots for car camping in Oklahoma, including information on free camping, campgrounds with amenities, and the natural beauty you can expect to find.
Key Takeaways:
- Discover the best spots for car camping in Oklahoma
- Explore free camping options on public lands and national grasslands
- Find out about free RV camping near Tulsa and Oklahoma City
- Learn about scenic campgrounds in Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Beavers Bend State Park, Greenleaf State Park, and Sequoyah State Park
- Experience unique camping opportunities in Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Illinois River, Ouachita National Forest, and Boiling Springs State Park
Plan your next car camping adventure in Oklahoma and immerse yourself in the outdoor beauty that this state has to offer.
Free Camping in Oklahoma
Oklahoma offers free camping opportunities on public lands managed by the US Forest Service. Adventurers can enjoy the beauty of the state’s national grasslands while camping for free. Two notable options are the Rita Blanca National Grassland in the panhandle and the Black Kettle National Grassland near Cheyenne, both offering scenic views of prairies and some shade. Additionally, the Department of Fish and Wildlife provides free primitive camping at various boat ramp-style river camping areas along the shores of Lake Vincent. It is important to note that most of these free camping options are boondocking experiences, meaning you may need to be self-sufficient and come prepared with necessary supplies, as there may be no access to water, electricity, or restrooms.
Free RV Camping Near Tulsa and Oklahoma City
If you prefer the convenience of camping near urban areas, there are options for free RV camping near Tulsa and Oklahoma City.
The Camping World near Tulsa offers free camping in its parking lot, providing a convenient and accessible option for RV travelers. Whether you’re stopping for the night or spending a few days exploring the area, this free camping spot allows you to stay close to the city while enjoying the comforts of your RV.
For those visiting Tulsa, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino east of downtown also allows free overnight RV camping in some of its lots. This unique opportunity allows you to experience the excitement of the casino while having a secure place to park your RV for the night.
If you’re heading towards Oklahoma City, several businesses including Walmarts and Cracker Barrels offer free overnight parking for RVs. These locations provide a safe and convenient option for travelers passing through the area. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm their policies and availability.
Additionally, if you’re looking for a more scenic camping experience near Oklahoma City, there are a couple of casinos that offer free camping spots. The Riverwind Casino, south of town, provides RV camping with or without hookups, allowing you to enjoy the thrill of the casino while staying close to nature. The Lucky Star Casino northwest of town also offers free camping spots for RVs, providing a unique camping experience with the added convenience of nearby entertainment.
Whether you’re exploring Tulsa or Oklahoma City, these free RV camping options near the urban areas allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds – the excitement of the city and the freedom of the open road.
Scenic Campgrounds in Oklahoma
Oklahoma boasts several scenic campgrounds where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the state. Whether you prefer lakeside views, lush forests, or serene prairies, there’s a campground in Oklahoma that will meet your outdoor desires. Here are some of the top scenic campgrounds in the state:
Chickasaw National Recreation Area
Located in Sulphur, Chickasaw National Recreation Area offers three campgrounds: The Point, Guy Sandy, and Buckhorn. These campgrounds provide electric and water hookups, as well as primitive tent campsites. Nestled amidst rolling hills and clear springs, this scenic campground is an excellent choice for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Beavers Bend State Park
If you’re looking for picturesque views of rivers and lakes, Beavers Bend State Park near Broken Bow won’t disappoint. With ten campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to set up your tent and wake up to stunning vistas of the Lower Mountain Fork River and Broken Bow Lake. This scenic campground is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Greenleaf State Park
For campers who enjoy a combination of amenities and scenic beauty, Greenleaf State Park in Braggs is an ideal choice. This park offers campgrounds with various amenities, including playgrounds, hiking trails, and a lake swimming beach. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this scenic campground while enjoying the convenience of modern facilities.
Sequoyah State Park
Surrounded by the serene beauty of Fort Gibson Lake, Sequoyah State Park near Hulbert provides a picturesque setting for camping enthusiasts. This scenic campground offers amenities such as swimming beaches, hiking trails, and even horseback riding. Revel in the tranquility of nature as you explore the diverse landscapes and wildlife of this state park.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Oklahoma’s scenic campgrounds and create lasting memories in the great outdoors. Whether you’re seeking lakeside serenity or a forest retreat, these campgrounds offer the perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
| Campground | Location | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Chickasaw National Recreation Area | Sulphur | Electric and water hookups, primitive tent campsites |
| Beavers Bend State Park | Broken Bow | Tent camping, picturesque river and lake views |
| Greenleaf State Park | Braggs | Playgrounds, hiking trails, lake swimming beach |
| Sequoyah State Park | Hulbert | Swimming beaches, hiking trails, horseback riding |
Unique Camping Experiences in Oklahoma
For those seeking unique camping experiences, Oklahoma offers a few noteworthy options. One such destination is the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton. This refuge not only boasts diverse wildlife but also features the picturesque Doris Campground. Here, campers can enjoy hiking through scenic trails, fishing in tranquil lakes, and wildlife viewing opportunities that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
If camping alongside a scenic river appeals to you, look no further than the Illinois River in Tahlequah. With its breathtaking beauty, this river offers camping spots along its banks that are perfect for canoeing, rafting, and fishing. Imagine waking up to the soothing sounds of flowing water and spending your days exploring the river’s natural wonders.
For a nature-filled camping adventure, head to the Ouachita National Forest in Hodgen. This forest is known for its stunning vistas, extensive hiking trails, and four well-maintained campgrounds. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply want to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, camping in the Ouachita National Forest is an experience like no other.
Lastly, Boiling Springs State Park near Woodward offers a unique prairie oasis with towering timber, serene lakes, and babbling streams. The highlight of this park is the eponymous “boiling” spring, a natural wonder that fascinates visitors. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the park, go for a hike in the surrounding trails, and relish the opportunity to truly connect with the great outdoors.
FAQ
Where can I go car camping in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma offers a variety of camping options, including free dispersed camping on public lands and scenic campgrounds near Tulsa and Oklahoma City.
Are there any options for free camping in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can enjoy free camping on public lands managed by the US Forest Service, such as the Rita Blanca National Grassland and the Black Kettle National Grassland. The Department of Fish and Wildlife also offers free primitive camping along the shores of Lake Vincent. However, be prepared for no access to water, electricity, or restrooms.
Is there free RV camping available near Tulsa and Oklahoma City?
If you prefer the convenience of camping near urban areas, there are options for free RV camping. The Camping World near Tulsa and the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino east of downtown Tulsa allow free overnight RV camping in their parking lots. Several businesses near Oklahoma City, including Walmarts and Cracker Barrels, also offer free overnight parking for RVs. The Riverwind Casino south of town and the Lucky Star Casino northwest of town provide free camping spots with or without RV hookups. It’s advisable to call ahead and confirm availability.
What are some scenic campgrounds in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma boasts several scenic campgrounds where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the state. The Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur offers three campgrounds with electric and water hookups as well as primitive tent campsites. Beavers Bend State Park near Broken Bow provides tent camping options with picturesque views of Lower Mountain Fork River and Broken Bow Lake. Greenleaf State Park in Braggs offers amenities like playgrounds, hiking trails, and a lake swimming beach. Sequoyah State Park near Hulbert features campgrounds surrounded by Fort Gibson Lake and offers amenities such as swimming beaches, hiking trails, and horseback riding.
What are some unique camping experiences in Oklahoma?
For those seeking unique camping experiences, Oklahoma offers a few noteworthy options. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton provides camping opportunities amidst diverse wildlife, with hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Illinois River in Tahlequah offers camping along its scenic banks, perfect for canoeing, rafting, and fishing. The Ouachita National Forest in Hodgen provides breathtaking views, hiking trails, and four campgrounds for a nature-filled camping experience. Boiling Springs State Park near Woodward offers a prairie oasis with timber, lakes, and streams and features the unique “boiling” spring.
