Buckhorn Campground

Oklahoma, often called the "Sooner State," is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting a surprising diversity of landscapes from rolling prairies to ancient mountains and pristine lakes. For many Oklahomans, escaping the daily grind means heading to a campground, where the fresh air, starlit nights, and the sounds of nature provide the perfect antidote to urban life. Whether you're a seasoned camper with a state-of-the-art RV, a family looking for a memorable tent-camping experience, or an adventurer seeking a rustic retreat, Oklahoma's campgrounds offer a wide range of options to suit every preference.

Choosing the right campground in Oklahoma involves more than just finding a spot to pitch a tent or park an RV. It's about selecting a place that aligns with your desired experience. Factors such as proximity to natural attractions, available amenities like clean restrooms and showers, access to water activities, and the overall atmosphere of the park all play a crucial role. Many Oklahomans prioritize campgrounds that are well-maintained, offer a sense of peace and quiet, and provide opportunities for outdoor recreation. The quality of the campground host or staff can also significantly enhance your stay, making you feel welcome and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Oklahoma's state parks and national recreation areas are home to some of the most popular campgrounds, offering access to stunning natural beauty and a host of activities like fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The appeal of these locations lies in their ability to provide both serene escapes and adventure-filled itineraries. Buckhorn Campground, nestled within the beautiful Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur, stands out as a prime example of a campground that caters to diverse needs, promising a memorable outdoor experience for locals and visitors alike.

Buckhorn Campground is a highly acclaimed camping destination located within the picturesque Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur, Oklahoma. It is widely regarded as one of the best campgrounds on the eastern shore of Lake of the Arbuckles, known for its serene setting, diverse site options, and excellent maintenance. Reviewers consistently praise Buckhorn for its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and accessibility to the lake, making it a "beautiful clean peaceful camp." The campground offers a mix of primitive tent sites and RV sites with electric and water hookups, catering to a broad spectrum of campers from those seeking a rustic experience to those desiring modern conveniences. Many sites boast "up close and personal" views of the lake, enhancing the natural appeal. The presence of friendly and helpful camp hosts is frequently highlighted, ensuring a well-run and enjoyable camping experience, with one reviewer noting that the host "was very kind and checked us in and answered our questions." Buckhorn Campground is celebrated for its natural beauty, abundant trees and greenery, and its welcoming environment for families and individuals alike, making it a frequent return destination for many Oklahomans.

Buckhorn Campground is ideally situated on Buckhorn Rd, Sulphur, OK 73086, USA, within the expansive Chickasaw National Recreation Area. This prime location places campers directly amidst the natural beauty of South-Central Oklahoma, particularly offering direct access to the stunning Lake of the Arbuckles. Sulphur, a charming town, provides nearby essential services and local attractions, while the campground itself offers a tranquil escape into nature.

Accessibility to Buckhorn Campground is straightforward, with well-maintained roads leading to the various loops and sites. The Chickasaw National Recreation Area, located just south of Sulphur along State Highway 177, is easily accessible by RVs, trailers, and other motorized vehicles, approximately 90 miles south of Oklahoma City. Local paved and unpaved roads within the recreation area ensure smooth navigation to different park areas and points of interest. While some reviews mention spotty cell service, this often contributes to the desired "getting away from it all" experience for many campers. Wheelchair accessible campsites, restrooms, and showers are also available in Buckhorn Campground, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity. The campground's location near the Buckhorn Boat Launch and the southern trailhead for the Rock Creek Multi-Use Trail further enhances its accessibility for various outdoor activities.

• Diverse Campsites: Offers a variety of sites, including primitive tent sites, electric-only RV sites, and electric/water hookup RV sites (30 and 50 amp service available in Loops C and D).
• Clean Restrooms and Showers: Consistently praised in reviews for being well-maintained and clean, with warm water often available. Wheelchair accessible options are provided.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits: Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire pit, often with a raised area for tents and cooking, enhancing the camping experience.
• Accessible Trash Cans/Daily Trash Pickup: Conveniently located trash receptacles and daily trash pickup ensure a clean and tidy campground environment.
• Dump Station: A facility available for RVs to empty their waste tanks.
• Potable Water: Available for campers, with individual water hook-ups at electric sites and shared spigots for non-electric sites.
• On-site Camp Hosts: Friendly and helpful hosts are present to assist campers with check-in, answer questions, and ensure the campground runs smoothly.
• Amphitheater: A communal area that may host ranger-led programs or other events.
• Swimming Area: Designated areas for swimming in Lake of the Arbuckles.

• Proximity to Lake of the Arbuckles: A major highlight, offering easy access to one of Oklahoma's clearest lakes, ideal for fishing (especially bass), boating, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Many sites have "up close and personal" lake views.
• Beautiful and Well-Maintained Grounds: Reviewers consistently describe the campground as "beautiful and well maintained," with "lots of trees and greenery around," providing a picturesque setting.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Emphasized by many campers, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and enjoying nature without excessive noise.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Campsites are noted for being "pretty big" with "good separation from neighbors," offering a semi-private feel even amidst other campers.
• Elevated Tent Areas: Some primitive tent sites feature a raised area for tents, picnic tables, and fire pits, which is a unique and appreciated amenity.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local wildlife.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Access to trails like the Rock Creek Multi-Use Trail offers recreational opportunities directly from the campground.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Described as a "relaxed, family-friendly campground," making it suitable for all ages.
• Year-Round Camping (Loops C & D): While some loops are seasonal, Loops C and D are open year-round, offering consistent access to this beautiful area.

Buckhorn Campground, being part of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area managed by the National Park Service, generally adheres to a standardized fee structure rather than offering independent promotions. However, certain discounts and reservation options are available that can be beneficial to campers:

• Standard Site Fees: Non-utility sites typically cost $20 per night, while utility sites (electric/water) are usually $30 per night. These rates are for up to 8 people per site.
• Group Site Options: Small group sites (no utilities, up to 10 people) cost $30/night, and large group sites (no utilities, up to 30 people) are $50/night.
• Passes and Discounts: The campground accepts debit and credit cards only; cash is not accepted. It's advisable to check with the National Park Service or Recreation.gov for information on federal passes (like the America the Beautiful Pass) that might offer discounts on camping fees for eligible individuals (e.g., seniors, military).
• Reservations: Loop C campsites are reservable in advance via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777 (TDD 1-877-833-6777). Loops A, B, and D are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, especially during certain periods.
• Seasonal Availability: Loops A and B are open seasonally, primarily for holiday weekends in 2025 (e.g., Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day weekends), while Loops C and D are open year-round, providing flexibility for different camping seasons.

For the most current information on fees, availability, and any applicable discounts, it is always best to check the official National Park Service website for Chickasaw National Recreation Area or visit Recreation.gov directly.

For more information, to check availability, or to make reservations (for reservable sites), you can contact Buckhorn Campground through the Chickasaw National Recreation Area administration:

• Address: Buckhorn Rd, Sulphur, OK 73086, USA (within Chickasaw National Recreation Area)
• Primary Phone: (580) 622-7234 (Travertine Nature Center / Park Headquarters)
• Reservations Phone (for Loop C): 1-877-444-6777 (TDD 1-877-833-6777 via Recreation.gov)

While there is no direct phone number solely for Buckhorn Campground, the park headquarters and the national reservation system are the official channels for inquiries and bookings. The helpful camp hosts on-site are available to assist once you arrive.

For Oklahomans seeking an enriching and accessible outdoor experience, Buckhorn Campground in Sulphur is an outstanding choice. Its location within the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, right on the shores of Lake of the Arbuckles, makes it an immediate draw for anyone looking to enjoy the state's natural beauty without traveling too far from home. Whether you're an avid angler, a fan of water sports, or simply someone who appreciates a quiet evening by the campfire, the direct lake access and scenic views provide the quintessential Oklahoma outdoor adventure.

The campground's suitability for locals is further amplified by its diverse range of site options, accommodating everything from primitive tent camping for a traditional experience to RV sites with full hookups for those who prefer modern comforts. The consistent praise for its cleanliness, well-maintained facilities (including restrooms and showers), and the helpfulness of the on-site camp hosts ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable stay. For families, the "relaxed, family-friendly" atmosphere and opportunities for hiking, biking, and swimming make it an ideal spot for creating lasting memories. In essence, Buckhorn Campground offers Oklahomans a chance to reconnect with nature, enjoy a peaceful retreat, and take pride in the beautiful recreational areas right in their own state, making it a premier choice for their next camping getaway.