Central Group Camp (Ok) Chickasaw Nra
4.1713 reviews901 West 1st Street, Sulphur, OK 73086, USA
Central Group Camp (Ok) Chickasaw Nra
$30.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group tent sites range from $30-$50 per night, depending on the season. No discounts or additional charges mentioned.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Chickasaw National Recreation Area's historic Platt District, Central Group Camp beckons families and friends to gather where crystalline springs bubble up from ancient limestone and waterfalls cascade through verdant forests. This spacious group campground wraps around an expansive central field perfect for volleyball games, frisbee tournaments, or stargazing sessions. Just steps away, a network of trails leads adventurers to hidden springs and scenic overlooks, making it an ideal basecamp for groups seeking both relaxation and exploration.
Central Group Camp primarily supports group tent camping. Primitive camping is available, but there are no RV sites, cabins, or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living piece of American conservation history at Central Group Camp, situated within what was once the celebrated Platt National Park - one of the nation's earliest protected areas established in 1906. These healing waters and mineral springs drew visitors from across the country seeking restoration and recreation. In 1976, this treasured landscape expanded its embrace, transforming into the Chickasaw National Recreation Area to honor the indigenous peoples who first recognized the sacred nature of these springs. Today, every trail and spring tells stories of both ancient wisdom and pioneering preservation.
Weather and SeasonsOklahoma's dynamic weather patterns paint an ever-changing canvas throughout the camping season. Summer arrives with intensity, bringing warm days that make those spring-fed swimming holes especially inviting. Afternoon thunderstorms roll across the prairie, offering dramatic sky shows and refreshing relief from the heat. Spring and fall showcase nature's artistry with moderate temperatures perfect for hiking, though vigilant campers should monitor weather reports during tornado season. The campground welcomes visitors during its seasonal schedule, typically closing during winter months when frost paints the landscape silver.
ElevationThe campground rests comfortably in Oklahoma's gentle terrain, where subtle elevation changes create intimate valleys for springs and provide just enough rise for scenic vantage points across the surrounding woodland.
Natural Features and SceneryNature showcases her finest artistry across Central Group Camp's landscape of gently rolling hills clothed in dense hardwood forests. Crystal-clear streams weave between ancient trees, their waters emerging from springs that have flowed for millennia. Adventure awaits at nearby Panther Falls, where water tumbles over rock ledges in a perpetual dance. Follow Travertine Creek as it winds through limestone formations, or discover the thundering cascade of Little Niagara - a hidden gem that rivals its famous namesake in beauty if not in size. Each dawn brings birdsong symphonies, while twilight transforms the woodland into a realm of fireflies and starlight.
Geological RegionCentral Group Camp sits atop one of Oklahoma's most fascinating geological stories, where ancient seas left behind limestone layers that now create a wonderland of springs and streams. The Platt Historic District within Chickasaw National Recreation Area reveals millions of years of Earth's history through dramatic faulting and folding that forced mineral-rich waters to the surface. These geological forces crafted the gently rolling hills that shelter the campground and created the unique travertine deposits that give nearby creeks their name. It's a landscape where every rock formation and bubbling spring serves as a window into our planet's dynamic past.
Campsite details
AccessibilityRestrooms are close by; however, no specific accessibility features are mentioned for people with disabilities.
Sites SizeGroup sites are spacious, accommodating large groups, and surround a central activity field.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are clustered closely, while others offer more seclusion.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Site 5 for proximity to creek; avoid rocky areas around Sites 2 and 3. Water access is limited to Site 2.
Best CampsitesSite 5 praised for its creek access and cleanliness. Sites 2 and 3 noted for rocky fire ring areas.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:30 PM CST
Check-out
12:00 PM CST
Stay Limit
- Maximum 14 nights per visit
- maximum 30 nights within a 30-day rolling period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Group sites
- specific guest capacity not stated.
Groups
Group sites accommodate large numbers of campers and surround a central activity field.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites arranged in a loop surrounding a central field. Some discrepancies in site numbering reported.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season May 2 - September 26 annually. Closed for reservations outside this window.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly mentioned; likely reservation required for group sites.
Cancellation PolicyRefunds are not given due to weather. $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first-night fee. Self-service modifications available after arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Central Group Camp offers diverse recreational activities suited for campers of all ages. Swimming, hiking, wildlife viewing, and cultural education opportunities are highlights. Nearby attractions such as Little Niagara and Panther Falls add to the experience.
Hiking
Hiking trails nearby offer scenic views of streams, waterfalls, and mineral springs. "Nearby hiking trails meander along streams, past cool rushing waterfalls, and on to mineral and freshwater springs."Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity, with attractions like Panther Falls providing spring-fed swimming areas. User reviews remark on the proximity to water activity sites.Biking
Biking trails are available, but no additional details on terrain or difficulty are provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife like opossum, raccoons, and deer are commonly observed in the area. "The woodland environment is home to animals like opossum, raccoons and deer."Cultural and Educational Programs
The Travertine Nature Center offers educational exhibits and presentations by rangers.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Swimming is the main water-based activity mentioned; no other water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are noted.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed; firewood must be sourced locally.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as snakes near brush or shoreline. Frequent severe weather including tornadoes and extreme heat.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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 can be contacted by dialing 911. For non-emergencies after hours, you can reach local dispatch at 580-622-3918. Closest police station and ranger services are not detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 2 - September 27 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are not explicitly mentioned, but recycling programs or specific disposal details are unavailable.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Travertine Creek and swimming areas like Little Niagara and Panther Falls.
Common complaintsNoise complaints due to unruly groups. Some confusion regarding site numbering and assignments. Rangers are described as professional but vigilant about campsite inspections.
HostKen the camp host receives positive remarks for helpfulness.
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. Drive approximately 8 miles east to Sulphur (Jct Hwy 7 and Hwy 177). Turn south (right) for approximately 0.2 miles on Highway 177 and take the first left. Central Campground is 0.25 miles east on NE Perimeter Road.
Road access is paved and easily navigable. Seasonal closure information is not explicitly provided.Nearby places
Sulphur (~0.9 miles), Davis (~8 miles)
Nearby supplies
Sulphur (~0.9 miles) contains groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.2
13 reviews
Central Group Camp (Ok) Chickasaw Nra is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally find the campground enjoyable due to its proximity to natural attractions like streams and creeks. However, some reviews highlight issues with noise and site mismanagement.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, proximity to water features such as creeks and swimming areas, and ample space for group activities. Quotes include "Site 5 was absolutely magical! The creek right by the site was...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise disturbances and site labeling issues were brought up. A user noted, "...about 15 teenage boys and girls were running around yelling, this was after 10pm..." – JALEN H. Others mention confusion...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend ensuring clarity about site locations before booking and advise bringing water supplies to supplement shared spigots. "The only water source is on the east side of campsite 2." –...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are popular due to swimming opportunities at nearby water features like Little Niagara. Winter usability trends are not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Site 5 was absolutely magical! The creek right by the site was pure bliss! Very clean and well maintained facility!" – Jessica Wilkinson. 2. "Restrooms are close by. No showers, and close to the...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 5: Highly praised for proximity to the creek and cleanliness. Site 3: Noted for rocky terrain and issues with mismanagement. "We had an issue this year on site 3, however the Ranger was very...
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Accessibility Features
No explicit accessibility reviews are available.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No pet-related reviews are available.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025