Cold Springs Campground

Nestled within the breathtaking Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur, Oklahoma, Cold Springs Campground offers a truly immersive nature experience for campers of all kinds. This highly-regarded campground is celebrated for its serene atmosphere, well-shaded sites, and immediate access to the invigorating, ice-cold waters of Travertine Creek, fed by the Antelope and Buffalo Springs. It’s a place where you can truly "take it easy and savor the breathtaking scenery and the delightful fall weather," as one satisfied camper enthusiastically shared.

Cold Springs Campground prides itself on being a family-friendly destination, known for its peaceful environment where "you don’t have ppl who are getting too rowdy." This makes it an ideal spot for those with little ones, or anyone seeking a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The consistent praise for the friendly and highly supportive camp hosts, like "Spirit," who "loves her job," further solidifies Cold Springs as a top choice for a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor adventure in Oklahoma. While nature can occasionally present challenges like bees, the overall consensus is that this campground is a "great spot" for connecting with the natural beauty of the region.

Cold Springs Campground is located in Sulphur, OK 73086, USA, specifically within the sprawling and picturesque Chickasaw National Recreation Area. This prime location places it in the heart of one of Oklahoma’s most cherished natural landmarks, offering campers direct access to a wealth of outdoor activities and scenic beauty. The campground is conveniently situated "across the street" from the popular spring-fed swimming areas of Travertine Creek, including Bear Falls, and is just a short 5-7 minute drive from the town of Sulphur.

Accessibility to Cold Springs Campground is generally straightforward via US-177 and OK-7, making it a manageable drive for visitors from across Oklahoma and neighboring states. While GPS can sometimes be unreliable in more remote areas, the campground's well-established presence within the national recreation area means it is relatively easy to find. The internal roads within the campground are designed to accommodate campers, though it's always wise to exercise caution and check for any specific park alerts, especially concerning road conditions after significant weather events. This combination of natural seclusion and convenient access to town services makes Cold Springs an excellent choice for a wide range of camping preferences.

• Tent and RV Sites: Cold Springs Campground offers a variety of sites, suitable for both tent camping and smaller RVs or pop-up campers (typically less than 20 feet). Most sites are basic and do not offer electrical hookups, emphasizing a more traditional camping experience.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires under the stars. Some sites also include lantern posts.
• Potable Water: Shared water spigots are conveniently located throughout the campground, providing access to drinking water.
• Flush Toilets: The campground features clean flush restrooms, ensuring a comfortable experience for campers. It's important to note that, as per park information, there are no shower facilities at Cold Springs Campground.
• Accessible Facilities: Cold Springs Campground offers accessible facilities, catering to visitors with varying needs.
• Dumpsters: Waste disposal is made easy with dumpsters located near the main entrance.
• Group Sites: In addition to individual campsites, Cold Springs offers small and large group sites that can accommodate up to 10 and 30 people respectively, ideal for larger gatherings or scout troops.
• On-site Camp Host: A dedicated and helpful camp host is available to assist campers, provide information, and ensure a pleasant stay, as consistently praised in visitor reviews.

• Breathtaking Natural Scenery: The campground is enveloped by mature oak and hickory forests, offering abundant shade and a serene natural environment. The complex geology of the Arbuckle Mountains creates a landscape of rolling hills dissected by gentle streams.
• Proximity to Cold, Clear Springs: A major highlight is its direct adjacency to Travertine Creek, fed by the cold, clear waters of Antelope and Buffalo Springs. This provides refreshing swimming areas like Bear Falls, Garfield Falls, Panther Falls, and the iconic Little Niagara, perfect for escaping the Oklahoma summer heat.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Cold Springs Campground is known for its quiet and respectful ambiance, making it very suitable for families with children. The absence of "rowdy" behavior ensures a peaceful environment for all.
• Abundance of Outdoor Activities: Campers have access to numerous activities including hiking (with trails like Antelope and Buffalo Springs Trail), swimming in the natural springs, fishing (with a valid Oklahoma fishing license), and wildlife viewing. Biking is also a popular activity on nearby trails.
• Informative and Supportive Camp Host: Visitors consistently praise the camp hosts for being incredibly informative, kind, helpful, and passionate about their work, significantly enhancing the camping experience.
• Pet-Friendly: Cold Springs Campground welcomes pets, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure, though they must be kept on a leash at all times.
• Digital Kiosk Pay Station: The campground features a modern digital kiosk pay station at the entrance, making it easy to pay for sites using debit or credit cards upon arrival.

Cold Springs Campground operates under the National Park Service within the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. As such, specific "promotions" in the commercial sense are not typically offered. However, the park has a transparent fee structure for its campsites.

• Non-utility sites (up to 8 people maximum): $20/night
• Utility sites (up to 8 people maximum): $30/night (Note: Cold Springs primarily has non-electrical sites, but this is a general rate for the area's campgrounds)
• Small group sites (no utilities, up to 10 people maximum): $30/night
• Large group sites (no utilities, up to 30 people maximum): $50/night

Reservations for individual sites and group sites at Cold Springs Campground can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as all sites at Cold Springs are by reservation only. There is typically a 2-day minimum reservation for weekends and a 3-day minimum for holidays. Always check the official Recreation.gov website or contact the Chickasaw National Recreation Area for the most current pricing and availability.

Address: Sulphur, OK 73086, USA (within Chickasaw National Recreation Area)

General Park Phone: 580-622-7234 (Chickasaw National Recreation Area Visitor Center)

Reservations Phone: 1-877-444-6777 (Recreation.gov)

Website: Recreation.gov for Cold Springs Campground reservations (search for "Cold Springs Campground Chickasaw National Recreation Area") or the official National Park Service website for Chickasaw National Recreation Area (nps.gov/chic).

For Oklahomans seeking an authentic and accessible outdoor escape, Cold Springs Campground in Sulphur is an unparalleled choice. Located within the beloved Chickasaw National Recreation Area, it offers a refreshing natural sanctuary right in the heart of the state. Locals can easily drive to this well-regarded campground for a weekend retreat or a longer family vacation, providing a much-needed break from urban life without the burden of extensive travel.

The core appeal for local users lies in Cold Springs’ commitment to providing a genuine camping experience. With its abundance of shade, direct access to the invigorating, spring-fed waters of Travertine Creek – perfect for swimming and cooling off during hot Oklahoma summers – and a consistently friendly and helpful camp host, it fosters an environment of relaxation and natural enjoyment. The family-friendly atmosphere ensures that even the youngest campers can safely explore and connect with nature, making it ideal for creating cherished memories close to home.

Furthermore, the array of activities available within the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, from peaceful strolls on shaded trails to more challenging hikes, and opportunities for fishing or wildlife observation, means there's always something to do for every interest level. The presence of clean flush toilets and potable water points adds a layer of comfort to the rustic experience. Cold Springs Campground truly embodies the spirit of Oklahoma's outdoor heritage, offering a convenient, affordable, and deeply fulfilling natural escape for residents eager to immerse themselves in the beauty of their home state. It's more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a gateway to reconnecting with nature and enjoying quality time with loved ones in a truly special part of Oklahoma.