Buckhorn Campground (Ok) Chickasaw Nra
4.63363 reviews901 West 1st Street, Sulphur, OK, 73086, USA
Buckhorn Campground (Ok) Chickasaw Nra
$20.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$20.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $20 for non-electric and walk-to sites to $30 for sites with electricity. Additional fees for cancellations, modifications, and no-shows apply.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake of the Arbuckles, Buckhorn Campground beckons families and outdoor enthusiasts to discover a perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Wake to the gentle lapping of lake waters and spend your days casting lines into fish-rich waters, paddling across mirror-like surfaces, or spotting herons and eagles along the shoreline. Well-appointed sites feature water and electric hookups, while solar-heated showers and pristine restrooms ensure your stay remains comfortable. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, hiking woodland trails, or gathering around the campfire under star-filled skies, Buckhorn creates the ideal basecamp for memory-making adventures.
Buckhorn Campground accommodates tents, RVs, and group camping, with both electric and non-electric options. No formal cabins or glamping units are available.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure sits at the crossroads of ancient history and living culture, with the renowned Chickasaw Cultural Center just moments away. This proximity offers campers a unique opportunity to explore the rich Native American heritage that has shaped this land for millennia, adding depth and meaning to your outdoor experience through exhibits, demonstrations, and cultural programs that bring the past vibrantly to life.
Weather and SeasonsOklahoma's dramatic skies paint an ever-changing canvas above Buckhorn, where weather can shift from brilliant sunshine to spectacular thunderstorms in a heartbeat. Summer brings intense heat punctuated by cooling afternoon storms, while spring and fall showcase nature's power with occasional severe weather, including powerful winds and the rare tornado. Yet winter transforms this dynamic landscape into a peaceful retreat, where crisp temperatures and crystal-clear skies create ideal conditions for those seeking solitude and serenity around crackling campfires.
ElevationThe campground's setting among gently undulating hills creates a landscape of subtle beauty, where each rise and fall reveals new perspectives of the surrounding countryside. These modest elevation changes add visual interest to hiking trails and provide natural amphitheaters for wildlife viewing, while offering just enough topography to make every walk an engaging journey of discovery.
Natural Features and SceneryExperience the unique magic of the Crosstimbers ecosystem, where ancient post oaks and blackjacks create dappled shade across rolling meadows dotted with wildflowers. The majestic Arbuckle Mountains frame your camping experience with their weathered peaks and hidden valleys, creating stunning backdrops for photography and contemplation. This diverse landscape supports abundant wildlife and offers endless opportunities to witness the delicate balance between prairie openness and woodland intimacy.
Geological RegionBuckhorn Campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads in the Crosstimbers region, where the vast western plains collide with the eastern forests in a spectacular meeting of ecosystems. The ancient Arbuckle Mountains, some of North America's oldest exposed rocks, have weathered into gentle rolling hills that shelter pockets of prairie and forest. This unique convergence creates a rich tapestry of habitats and landscapes that few other campgrounds can match, offering visitors a chance to experience multiple worlds within a single stay.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, drinking water, and bathroom facilities are available. Reviews also mention ramps and well-maintained paths.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious: 'Beautiful large campsites.'
Sites PrivacyVariable privacy levels—some campsites are nestled among trees and offer a secluded feeling, while others are close together.
Total Campsites88 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Loop D for first-come, first-serve access and privacy or Loop C waterfront sites for lake views.
Best CampsitesSites in Loop D are highly recommended for privacy and better views. Waterfront sites 59C, 60C, and 88C are praised for lakefront access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:30 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
The maximum stay is 21 consecutive nights during specific periods (10/01 to 04/30 annually).
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific limit mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops (A, B, C, and D). Loop C is reservable; Loop D is first-come, first-serve.
Open and Closed SeasonLoops C and D are open year-round; Loops A and B are closed during winter.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov, accessible online or via the app.
Walk-in AvailabilityLoop D is first-come, first-serve and highly recommended by users for better campsite options.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee. Late cancellations additionally lose the first night's camping fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Buckhorn Campground offers diverse activities, including water sports, hiking, birdwatching, and biking. It provides a serene environment for fishing and boating, with scenic views of Lake of the Arbuckles.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, although reviews mention poorly marked paths: 'Trails are sooooo poorly marked.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with bass, perch, and crappie commonly caught. 'Caught at least 5 perch and a bluegill near the lakeshore.'Swimming
Swimming areas are available, including Lake of the Arbuckles and nearby Travertine Creek. 'Swimming area is small. We spent most of our time in town at the cold springs swimming.'Biking
The campground offers biking trails with scenic views. 'Nice bike trails and hiking areas.'Boating
Boating and jet skiing are popular activities. 'Bring your boats and jet skis to enjoy the lake.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is common, with deer, raccoons, and various birds frequently sighted. 'Lots of wildlife surrounded the campsite with squirrels, raccoons, and birds.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The adjacent Chickasaw Cultural Center offers interactive exhibits and educational programs about Native American history.Winter Activities
Winter activities include serene walks and birdwatching: 'December is a great time to visit the park if you want to experience the serene stillness of the wood and lake.'Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and jet skiing are popular water sports activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings. Visitors should collect only dead wood from the ground.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews note challenges with steep grades, narrow roads, and wildlife such as raccoons and snakes. Severe weather is also a noted hazard.
Active alertsNo current alerts specified.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Dense drizzle
Precipitation: 1.2%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 91%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (1.20% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Dense drizzle
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible through 911. Local dispatch: 580-622-3918. A hospital and police station are located in Sulphur, approximately 5 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 (all year is considered peak season).
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are accessible throughout the campground, and trash pickup is frequent, ensuring cleanliness: 'The camp host went out of his way to make sure trash was picked up.'
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Lake of the Arbuckles with direct access for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaintsNumerous reviews highlight steep grades, narrow roads for RVs, and inconsistent solar-heated showers. Other complaints include noise from neighbors and occasional litter.
HostHosts are noted as friendly and helpful, particularly in Loop C and Loop D. Hosts assist with navigation and site setup.
Campground Map
901 West 1st Street, Sulphur, OK, 73086, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-35, take Exit #55 and drive towards the city of Davis, OK. Once in Davis, go east on Highway 7 to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Watch for the signs to direct you to Buckhorn Campgrounds. Drive approximately 8 miles east of Davis to the 4-way stop in Sulphur. Turn south on Hwy 177 for approximately 5 miles. Turn west at Buckhorn Road and drive 3 miles west, following directional signs.
Accessible via paved roads; however, user reviews note narrow roads and challenging navigation for large RVs due to tight curves, steep grades, and boulders near campsite entrances.Nearby places
Sulphur (~5 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Davis (~8 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Ardmore (~30 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and firewood can be obtained in Sulphur (~5 miles). No firewood vendors exist in the park
gathering dead wood is permitted.
Camper Reviews
4.6
363 reviews
Buckhorn Campground (Ok) Chickasaw Nra is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Buckhorn Campground consistently receives positive reviews for its cleanliness, helpful staff, and scenic beauty. Many visitors praise the restroom facilities and lakefront access.
Review Summaries
Based on 363 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, scenic lake views, friendly camp hosts, and ample amenities such as showers and water hookups.
Based on 363 reviewsCommon Concerns
Leveling challenges at certain sites, cold solar-powered showers, poor trail markings, narrow roads, and limited cell service.
Based on 363 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a water pressure regulator due to high pressure at hookups. Pack warm clothes for waterfront sites as they can be colder. Avoid weekends for quieter stays. Visit nearby attractions like...
Based on 363 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter camping is noted for its tranquility and clean facilities, while summer reviews highlight the vibrant water activities and swimming areas. Spring and fall reviews consistently praise hiking...
Based on 363 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Bathrooms were super clean every time I went in.' 'Caught at least 5 perch and a bluegill near the lakeshore.' 'The camp host was awesome. Helped orient me to where to set up.'
Based on 363 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites 059C and 056C are popular for their views and proximity to the lake but are described as challenging for leveling.
Based on 363 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews highlight accessible bathrooms and campsites, though challenges exist for larger RVs due to narrow roads.
Based on 363 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but barking dogs have been noted during stays. 'Everybody seemed to have brought their dogs & all I heard was barking 24/7.'
Based on 363 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025