Chickasaw National Recreation Area Tours and Activities

Chickasaw National Recreation Area featuring a river or creek


Enjoy some of the very best of Oklahoma’s natural beauty in this large protected park, which centers on the shimmering Lake of the Arbuckles.

Many of Oklahoma’s most impressive natural sights and beautiful landscapes are concentrated in Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Head here for a daytrip from the town of Sulphur, right next to the recreation area, or camp out overnight to experience this idyllic patch of wilderness after dark.

Chickasaw National Recreation Area includes the wide Lake of the Arbuckles and a large portion of the countryside surrounding it. The lake itself covers about 2,300 acres (9 square kilometers) in area. Bring your hiking boots when you visit, as around the lake’s edges and running over the surrounding hilltops are more than 30 miles (48 kilometers) of picturesque hiking trails. Find paths here to suit all levels of fitness and experience. Several campsites are dotted around the lake, offering a range of options for those who want to spend a night or more inside the park.

The lake’s clean, clear waters offer an ideal environment for a range of activities. Go swimming, boating or fishing or simply walk a section of the shoreline and enjoy the beautiful views of the sparkling water. Find another lovely body of water east of Lake of the Arbuckles. Veterans Lake is much smaller, but equally scenic and is also a good spot for active pursuits.

Look for waterfowl and a diverse array of other plants and animals as you explore Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Stop at the designated Bison Viewing Area to see some of the most impressive animals that roam this landscape, a wonderful herd of bison.

Continue learning about the area’s biodiversity in a more controlled environment, the Travertine Nature Center. See displays showing local animals and learn about nature through the center’s interactive exhibits. This is also the place to meet up for ranger-led hikes, tours and nature-spotting sessions.

Find the Chickasaw National Recreation Area directly south of the town of Sulphur. Stay in the quiet, welcoming little town or pack up a tent and supplies and sleep in the wilderness itself.

Plan a trip to see Chickasaw National Recreation Area

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Canvas Hotel Dallas
Casa Duro
The Crescent Hotel Fort Worth

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Best Lodging Options Near Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Lakeview Hideaway - Amazing View of Lake of the Arbuckles
Lakeview Hideaway - Amazing View of Lake of the Arbuckles
Sulphur
Lakeview Hideaway - Amazing View of Lake of the Arbuckles
Quiet cabin with gorgeous views in the Arbuckle Mountains & near the lake.
Quiet cabin with gorgeous views in the Arbuckle Mountains & near the lake.
Sulphur
Quiet cabin with gorgeous views in the Arbuckle Mountains & near the lake.
Super 8 by Wyndham Sulphur
Super 8 by Wyndham Sulphur
2 out of 5
2116 W Broadway Ave, Sulphur, OK
Super 8 by Wyndham Sulphur
 Moonlight Bay Chalet overlooking a private  10 acre lake
Moonlight Bay Chalet overlooking a private 10 acre lake
Sulphur
Moonlight Bay Chalet overlooking a private 10 acre lake
Little Woods - Cabin Tucked in the Woods
Little Woods - Cabin Tucked in the Woods
Sulphur
Little Woods - Cabin Tucked in the Woods
Echo Canyon Spa Resort (Adults Only)
Echo Canyon Spa Resort (Adults Only)
3.5 out of 5
551 Lawton Ave, Sulphur, OK
Echo Canyon Spa Resort (Adults Only)
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.