When the crisp days of autumn roll around, it's time to prep that RV or pack up the tent, so you can head outdoors to see the lush forests of Oklahoma put on their last performance of the year.  It’s time to go camping and enjoy the fall foliage.

Each year, from mid-October through early November, Oklahoma becomes awash with the rich colors and textures of autumn.  From Beavers Bend in southeastern Oklahoma to Boiling Springs in northwestern Oklahoma the forests burst forth in breathtaking panoramic displays you can admire from the rough of the woodsy trails and campgrounds across the state.

In southeastern Oklahoma, you’ll find Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area, which offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities including camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, and horseback riding.  At the nearby Cedar Lake National Recreation Area, you’ll find a campground area offering covered shelters, picnic tables, a playground, a volleyball area and more.

Broken Bow Lake, one of Oklahoma’s favorite camping locations, is also known for its gorgeous fall landscape.  A variety of accommodations from luxury cabins to quaint campsites lay nestled amongst spectacular views of nature in all her glory.  Perhaps the crown jewel of the area is Beavers Bend State Park which offers access to both Broken Bow Lake and the Mountain Fork River.  The park's lodge offers stunning fall views over the lake from the patio or balcony of every room.  Visitors can also stay in riverfront cabins or wooded campsites for an idyllic autumn escape.

Roman Nose State Park in Watonga also offers excellent opportunities for stunning fall views.  An autumn scene of rushing springs, hardwoods, and canyonlands dazzle the eyes while the rich history of the area seeps deep into the soul.  Go for a trail ride or rent a teepee and immerse yourself in this astounding landscape.                     

The forests burst forth in breathtaking panoramic displays you can admire from the rough of the woodsy trails and campgrounds across the state.

Then head south to the rugged Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton where you’ll see amazing fall colors amidst a backdrop of granite formations.  With its wildlife and scenery, opportunities abound for hikers and photographers alike who camp in this national refuge.  Other activities for the active minded include rock climbing, rappelling, and mountain biking. 

Red Rock Canyon State Park near Hinton also has a lot to offer with brilliant leaves and red stone canyon walls that combine to create an incredible view.  In addition to RV and tent camping, the park offers picnic areas, nature trails, a small fishing pond, and playground equipment.

One of southern Oklahoma’s most beautiful fall drives awaits you in Sulphur at the Chickasaw National Recreation Area.  Mineral and fresh water springs wind their way through acres of towering pines.  Add in the magnificent scenery surrounding the Lake of the Arbuckles and the rushing waters of nearby Turner Falls Park and you have a fall foliage viewer's and photographer's paradise.  Camping is available in all three areas and several private cabin operators offer rentals near Turner Falls.

With golfing, bird watching, fishing, and hayrides, Lake Murray State Park in southern Oklahoma offers plenty of fun in the midst of autumn’s splendor.  Rent a cabin or pitch a tent at Oklahoma’s largest state park, but make your reservations early as it’s bound to book up. 

Relax amidst the peaceful autumn scenery at Robbers Cave State Park near Wilburton. Stay in a historic cabin overlooking a valley ablaze with color, or enjoy the vista from the patio of your lodge room at the park.  There's also plenty of RV and tent camping, and even an equestrian camp where your horse can stay with you.  Hike through rocky hills and tall pines to a hidden cave where infamous outlaws once hid, or take a paddleboat ride on the lake at this great hideaway while marveling at nature’s vibrant display. 

No matter where you make camp, the fall foliage and crisp autumn air in Oklahoma is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated.