Fawn Creek Youth Campground

4.38

34 reviews

32 Refuge Headquarters, Indiahoma, OK, 73552

Featured in:Primitive Camping Oklahoma

Quick Facts

1,680 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Open January 1 to De...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,680 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Open January 1 to De...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Fawn Creek Youth Campground

$30.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The recreation use fee is $30 per night for tent-only, non-electric sites. Reservation fees vary by booking method: $8 online, $9 by phone, and $3 in...

Standard Site Fee$30.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$30.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

580-429-2197wmr_permits@fws.gov

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What Campers Say

4.38

Recommended

Based on 34 reviews

13 Google reviews

Most mentioned

spacioushikingsites

"The campground receives positive reviews for its suitability for youth groups, accessibility to hiking trails, and overall natural setting. However, the lack of water and cell reception are noted as drawbacks."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

32 Refuge Headquarters, Indiahoma, OK, 73552

Fawn Creek Youth Campground

32 Refuge Headquarters, Indiahoma, OK, 73552

Driving directionsFrom I-44 take Highway 49 (exit 45). Go west 7 miles to the Refuge gate or 14 miles to the Visitor Center. If coming from Highway 62, take Highway 115 (Cache exit) north to the Refuge Gate.

The campground is accessible via paved roads leading to the Refuge gate and Visitor Center. It is located within the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

Nearby places

Indiahoma - approximately 10 miles (15 minutes)

Lawton/Ft. Sill area - approximately 15 miles (20 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Doris Campground is 4.5 miles away and offers access to potable water. In case of essential supplies like water, users may need to carry their own and plan in advance.

Best Time to Camp at Fawn Creek Youth Campground

Mother Nature puts on a dramatic show in the Wichita Mountains, where the weather can shift from blazing sunshine to rolling thunderstorms in the span of an afternoon. Summer brings intense heat that shimmers across the prairie, while spring and fall usher in powerful winds that sweep across the ancient peaks. Rain can arrive suddenly, transforming dry creek beds into rushing streams, and during storm season, the sky occasionally rumbles with the raw power of tornadoes dancing across the distant horizon. This dynamic climate creates an ever-changing canvas that keeps every visit unique and teaches young campers to respect and adapt to nature's moods.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Summer brings intense heat and afternoon thunderstorms; site remains open year-round.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Milder weather and good hiking/wildlife viewing make fall a strong season here.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring likely excellent for hiking, wildlife and photography; site open and accessible.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round; usable in winter but no winter-sport amenities and conditions may be cold.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 1 to December 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open January 1 to December 31.
Current Alerts: A boil order is in effect for all areas within the refuge; visitors must bring potable water.

About Fawn Creek Youth Campground

Nestled within the heart of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Fawn Creek Youth Campground offers young adventurers an authentic wilderness experience like no other. This primitive campground serves as an exclusive basecamp for organized youth groups seeking to immerse themselves in one of America's most remarkable natural landscapes. From casting lines into pristine waters to paddling across mirror-like lakes, from traversing ancient trails to encountering majestic wildlife in their natural habitat, Fawn Creek transforms outdoor education into unforgettable memories.

Fawn Creek Youth Campground is exclusively reserved for organized youth groups, with facilities tailored for group camping. It is a primitive setup with no water or electricity, and it features spacious sites suitable for activities like hiking and fishing.

Historical SignificanceFawn Creek sits within one of America's pioneering conservation success stories. Established as one of the nation's oldest wildlife refuges, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge has served as a sanctuary where the thunder of bison hooves once again echoes across the prairie, where Texas longhorn cattle graze as living symbols of the Old West, and where bugling elk announce the changing seasons. This protected landscape has rescued species from the brink of extinction and continues to stand as a testament to the power of conservation, offering youth groups a living classroom where history, ecology, and adventure converge.

Weather and SeasonsMother Nature puts on a dramatic show in the Wichita Mountains, where the weather can shift from blazing sunshine to rolling thunderstorms in the span of an afternoon. Summer brings intense heat that shimmers across the prairie, while spring and fall usher in powerful winds that sweep across the ancient peaks. Rain can arrive suddenly, transforming dry creek beds into rushing streams, and during storm season, the sky occasionally rumbles with the raw power of tornadoes dancing across the distant horizon. This dynamic climate creates an ever-changing canvas that keeps every visit unique and teaches young campers to respect and adapt to nature's moods.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine a landscape where time seems to have paused millions of years ago. Ancient granite peaks rise like weathered sentinels from seas of waving grass, their rust-colored faces glowing in the golden hour light. Fragrant cedar forests provide cool refuge from the prairie sun, while crystal-clear lakes reflect the endless Oklahoma sky. This is the world that surrounds Fawn Creek, where massive American bison graze peacefully alongside their calves, majestic Rocky Mountain elk emerge from morning mists, and prairie dog towns buzz with activity. Every sunrise brings new discoveries as the refuge's 59,000 acres reveal their secrets to curious young explorers.

Geological RegionFawn Creek Youth Campground rests in the geological wonderland of southwest Oklahoma's Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, where ancient forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary diversity. These weathered granite mountains, among the oldest exposed rocks in North America, tell a story written over 500 million years ago. Mixed grass prairies flow like golden rivers between the peaks, while aromatic cedar forests cling to rocky slopes. Freshwater lakes and meandering streams have carved their paths through this rugged terrain, creating an intricate tapestry of ecosystems that support an remarkable array of wildlife and offer endless opportunities for discovery and adventure.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.

Check-out

Check-out must occur by 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

7consecutive nights per visit allowed all year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Groups must qualify as organized youth groups such as scouts or university clubs. Max group size limited to 15 people for specific wilderness access rules.

Groups

The campground has 4 group sites located on a single loop. Each site is equipped with picnic tables, a fire ring, and a charcoal grill. Group size limits for the Charon's Garden Wilderness Area are a maximum of 15 people.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of a single loop with four group sites.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov, through their mobile app, or by phone.

Walk-in AvailabilityNot mentioned; reservations required for organized youth groups.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations subtract the first night's recreational use fee. No refunds for cancellations made on the day of arrival.

AccessibilityThere is no specific mention of accessibility features tailored for individuals with disabilities at this campground.

Site SizeThe group sites are spacious with sufficient room for youth groups. For example, "We had 15 on Site B with plenty of room to spare. A is about the same size, C much larger.

PrivacyThe distance between campsites provides a sense of isolation, as highlighted by a user: "The distance between camps was sufficient to create a sense of isolation, despite the nearest group being a large Troop.

Total Campsites4 campsites

Recommended SitesGroup Site C is larger and offers ample shade. Group Site D is noted for privacy and proximity to trails. Bring sufficient water for camping.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a variety of outdoor activities suitable for organized youth groups, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The nearby Dog Run Hollow Trail System and French Lake provide additional recreational opportunities.

HikingHiking is a popular activity at the campground. Trails like the Dog Run Hollow Trail System are within walking distance, and Elk Mountain is also nearby. User reviews highlight this: "Great camp sites and excellent place to hike," and "Access to amazing hikes and the wildlife was a definite plus."

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

FishingFishing is accessible within walking distance. A review mentions that some creeks nearby contain crawfish, which can be used as bait: "Good open area with built-in campfires; there are also some creeks with some crawfish for bait."

BoatingCanoeing and kayaking are noted as activities available within walking distance of the campground.

Wildlife viewingThe Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, including bison, elk, and prairie dogs. A user review states, "We were able to take hikes, see the bison, elk, prairie dogs, and other animals."

Cultural and Educational ProgramsYouth groups can engage in educational activities, and visitors can also learn about the area at the Refuge Visitor's Center. A reviewer noted, "Randy at the Visitor’s Center was gracious enough to talk with our group and share stories."

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsFree-roaming bison and longhorn cattle pose a safety risk. Severe weather such as tornadoes and extreme heat occur.

Active AlertsA boil order is in effect for all areas within the refuge; visitors must bring potable water.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed within designated fire rings and charcoal grills.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services include 911. The nearest water refill location is Doris Campground (~4.5 miles away), though the Refuge HQ gate is sometimes closed.

Trash & RecyclingThe campground description and reviews do not explicitly mention trash and recycling facilities, but campers are likely expected to adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

Water FeaturesCreeks with crawfish offer fishing bait. French Lake is nearby for kayaking and hiking opportunities.

Camp HostThe ranger staff is helpful and attentive, as noted by several user reviews.

Weather at Fawn Creek Youth Campground

Reviews

4.4

34 reviews

Recommended

Fawn Creek Youth Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground receives positive reviews for its suitability for youth groups, accessibility to hiking trails, and overall natural setting. However, the lack of water and cell reception are noted as drawbacks.

Review Summaries

Based on 34 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the spacious group sites, proximity to hiking trails like Elk Mountain, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The new vault toilets and the natural beauty of the area were also...

Based on 34 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of potable water and cell reception were the most commonly cited issues: "Be ready to bring your own water, and cell reception is negligible." Users also mentioned the need to drive to other...

Based on 34 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing sufficient water supplies and being prepared for the lack of cell phone coverage. "Be ready to bring your own water," and "Doris campground was the nearest water...

Based on 34 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Most user reviews do not mention specific seasonal differences, but the general sentiment is that the campground is suitable year-round for youth groups.

Based on 34 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Twice a year we come here with our kids! Love to camp here with our group!" "Good open area with built-in campfires; there are also some creeks with some crawfish for bait." "The distance between...

Based on 34 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site C is described as larger and offering plenty of shade: "Fawn Creek Campground Site C was great! We had plenty of room to spread out and plenty of shade." Site B is noted for being spacious: "We...

Based on 34 reviews