Hickory Campground

For many Oklahomans, the call of the wild is a strong one, pulling us towards serene landscapes where we can truly disconnect and recharge. If your idea of the perfect getaway involves pitching a tent under a canopy of trees, the soothing sound of a river nearby, and the chance to spot local wildlife, then Hickory Campground in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, is a destination you absolutely need to explore. This beloved spot offers a unique "primitive camping" experience, renowned for its tranquility and natural beauty. It's a place where you can step away from the everyday and immerse yourself in the authentic outdoor spirit that Oklahoma's Kiamichi Mountains are famous for.

Hickory Campground has garnered a reputation among seasoned campers for its idyllic setting. Guests consistently praise it as a "great primitive camping along the edge of a beautiful River" and highlight its "lots of shade and very peaceful" atmosphere. This isn't your typical crowded RV park with all the bells and whistles; it’s a back-to-basics escape designed for those who appreciate the raw, unspoiled beauty of nature. Yet, it thoughtfully provides essential amenities like nearby restrooms and trash dumpsters, ensuring your primitive experience remains comfortable and convenient. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table, barbecue grill, and firepit, inviting you to enjoy outdoor meals and cozy evenings by the campfire. If you're an angler, the "river running by camp with good trout fishing" is a major draw, promising peaceful hours spent casting lines. Keep an eye out for the abundant "lots of wildlife," from curious deer to the occasional "band of raccoons" – a friendly reminder to secure your food! Hickory Campground offers an authentic and deeply satisfying camping adventure right here in our beautiful state.

Hickory Campground is nestled within the expansive and highly popular Beavers Bend State Park system, located in Broken Bow, OK 74728, USA. Its address places it squarely in one of Oklahoma's most cherished natural playgrounds, known for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests.

While the exact address for Hickory Campground might seem broad (Broken Bow, OK 74728, USA), it is specifically situated within the Beavers Bend State Park portion. This means access is typically via the park's well-maintained road network, usually off Highway 259 or Highway 259A (also known as Stevens Gap Road), which leads directly into the various camping areas of Beavers Bend. For those traveling from across Oklahoma, the park is easily reachable by car or RV, though it's important to note that Hickory Campground itself is designated for "Tents Only Camp" according to some sources, suggesting it's not designed for large RVs with full hookups. It's important to confirm the current setup as details can sometimes vary. The park's location along the Mountain Fork River is a key feature, offering direct river access for fishing and enjoyment.

Its integration into Beavers Bend State Park means campers have immediate access to a wealth of recreational opportunities. Hiking trails, scenic drives, the Beavers Bend Nature Center, and the various attractions around Broken Bow Lake and Hochatown are all within a short driving distance. Despite being part of a popular state park, reviewers highlight Hickory Campground's ability to maintain a "peaceful" and "rural" atmosphere, suggesting it’s somewhat removed from the busiest sections, offering a true escape into nature while still being convenient to amenities.

Hickory Campground, while celebrated for its primitive and natural setting, offers a thoughtful selection of essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its guests. The focus here is on providing the fundamentals that enhance outdoor living, rather than extensive resort-style amenities, aligning with its "primitive camping" designation.

• Designated Primitive Camping Sites: Hickory Campground provides sites specifically designed for tent camping, offering a more traditional and rustic experience. While primitive, the sites are generally well-defined.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for preparing meals, dining, and gathering.
• Barbecue Grills / Firepits: Every site includes a barbecue grill and a dedicated firepit. This allows campers to enjoy classic campfire cooking and the warmth of a crackling fire, with free firewood sometimes provided by the park, enhancing the authentic camping feel.
• Nearby Restrooms: Convenience is considered with restrooms located nearby the campsites, ensuring basic facilities are accessible to campers. Reviewers note the presence of pit toilets in some areas, while others refer to "nice indoor restrooms" nearby in the overall park, suggesting varying levels of comfort depending on specific location within the broader Beavers Bend camping areas.
• Trash Dumpsters: Readily available trash dumpsters help campers maintain a clean environment and easily dispose of waste, crucial for minimizing human impact on the natural surroundings.
• Drinking Water: Access to potable drinking water is available, a fundamental necessity for any camping trip.
• Shade and Natural Cover: The campground is characterized by "lots of shade" from "beautiful pine trees" and other natural foliage, providing a cool and comfortable environment even during warmer months.
• Pet-Friendly: As part of Beavers Bend State Park, Hickory Campground generally welcomes leashed pets, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions along to enjoy the outdoors.

These services strike a balance, offering sufficient convenience without detracting from the rustic and natural camping experience that makes Hickory Campground so appealing.

Hickory Campground distinguishes itself with several key features that make it a compelling choice for campers seeking a connection with nature in Broken Bow:

• Authentic Primitive Camping Experience: This is the core highlight. Unlike RV parks with full hookups, Hickory Campground offers a back-to-basics, tent-focused camping experience, providing a true escape for those who prefer a more rugged and immersive outdoor adventure.
• Riverside Location and Trout Fishing: Situated along the beautiful Mountain Fork River, the campground provides direct access to its clear waters. This is a significant draw for anglers, as the river is renowned for "good trout fishing," with regular stocking of rainbow and brown trout. It offers a unique opportunity for year-round fishing.
• Abundant Shade and Serenity: Reviewers consistently praise the "lots of shade" provided by the "beautiful pine trees" and the "very peaceful" atmosphere. This natural canopy and quiet environment contribute significantly to a relaxing and comfortable stay, even on warmer days.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The presence of "lots of wildlife," including deer and raccoons, offers exciting opportunities for nature observation. This adds to the immersive experience, reminding campers of their place within the natural ecosystem.
• Well-Equipped Individual Sites: Despite being primitive, each site thoughtfully includes essential amenities like a picnic table, barbecue grill, and firepit. This allows for comfortable outdoor living, cooking, and social gatherings around a campfire.
• Access to Beavers Bend State Park Amenities: As part of Beavers Bend State Park, campers at Hickory Campground benefit from being close to the broader park's extensive trail system, scenic overlooks, and other recreational facilities, including potential access to clean restrooms and dumpsters.
• Proximity to Broken Bow Lake: While located on the river, the campground is still within reasonable driving distance of Broken Bow Lake, allowing guests to enjoy lake activities such as boating and swimming if desired.

As a campground within Beavers Bend State Park, Hickory Campground typically operates under the pricing and booking structures of Oklahoma State Parks. Therefore, specific "promotions" in the commercial sense (like discount codes or seasonal sales) are not commonly advertised directly for individual campgrounds. However, visitors can often find value and potential "offers" through the state park system's general policies or seasonal considerations:

• Affordable Rates: Primitive camping within state parks is generally the most budget-friendly lodging option available, offering significant savings compared to cabins or full-service RV sites. For instance, typical primitive tent sites in Oklahoma State Parks can range from $8-$12 per night, making Hickory Campground a very economical choice.
• Off-Season Camping: While not a formal "promotion," visiting during the off-peak seasons (such as late fall, winter, or early spring, outside of major holidays) can offer a more secluded experience at regular rates, often with fewer crowds and more availability.
• Oklahoma State Park Passes: For frequent visitors to Oklahoma State Parks, purchasing an Oklahoma State Parks Annual Pass might offer cost savings over multiple visits throughout the year, effectively serving as a discount for various park activities and potentially camping fees (though specific benefits should be confirmed).

Since reservations for state park campgrounds are usually managed through the TravelOK.com website or by contacting the Beavers Bend State Park office directly, it is always recommended to check their official channels for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing and any potential statewide initiatives or seasonal rates that might apply to Hickory Campground.

For inquiries, reservations, or to gather more specific details about Hickory Campground, which is part of Beavers Bend State Park, you can use the following contact information:

• Address: Broken Bow, OK 74728, USA. (Please note that for navigation, it's best to search for "Beavers Bend State Park" and then follow signs to the Hickory Campground area within the park.)
• Park Office Phone: (580) 494-6538. This is the main number for the Beavers Bend State Park office, which manages all campgrounds within the park, including Hickory. They will be able to provide the most accurate and current information regarding site availability, amenities, and any regulations specific to primitive camping.

It's always a good idea to call ahead, especially during peak season, to confirm site availability as primitive sites can sometimes be first-come, first-served or require specific booking procedures. Checking the official TravelOK.com website for Beavers Bend State Park is also a reliable source for information and online reservations if applicable.

For Oklahomans, Hickory Campground in Broken Bow offers an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect with the natural world right in our own backyard. This campground is ideally suited for locals who crave a genuine outdoor experience, far removed from the concrete jungle, yet within a comfortable driving distance from most parts of the state. Its "primitive camping" style is perfect for those who appreciate the simplicity and tranquility of traditional tent camping, surrounded by the stunning "beautiful pine trees" and the peaceful flow of the Mountain Fork River.

Locals understand and value the unique natural resources of Oklahoma, and Hickory Campground provides direct access to one of our state's crown jewels: Beavers Bend State Park. The chance for "good trout fishing" right at your campsite, coupled with the frequent sightings of "lots of wildlife," makes it an engaging and immersive experience for families and individuals alike. It's an opportunity to teach kids about nature, hone your fishing skills, or simply relax and listen to the sounds of the river. The presence of basic amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and firepits ensures that even a primitive experience remains convenient and enjoyable.

Ultimately, Hickory Campground embodies the spirit of Oklahoma's outdoor heritage. It offers a much-needed escape where you can truly unwind, breathe in fresh air, and create lasting memories around a campfire under our vast Oklahoma sky. For those who appreciate peace, natural beauty, and a chance to truly "get away from it all" without leaving the state, Hickory Campground is not just a place to camp; it's a cherished retreat that will call you back again and again.