Current Fire Weather Conditions Result in Temporary Restrictions at Chickasaw National Recreation Area
Summer heat and drought have resulted in extreme fire weather conditions in south-central Oklahoma, including the national recreation area. This and other operational considerations necessitate a temporary closure of Guy Sandy campground at Chickasaw National Recreation Area and the multi-use area of the park from Veterans Lake to Cedar Blue Road on the western side of the park. The Guy Sandy campground is designed as a one-way loop of 40 tent campsites with a single gate entrance to the campground. The campground is adjacent to the Twin Lakes and Lake Side Estate residential areas, southwest of Sulphur, Oklahoma. Also, there is a temporary ban on ash producing fires utilized by visitors in park campgrounds or picnic areas. Gas grills for cooking are still permitted at this time where the grill is at least five (5) feet from vegetation.
To help assist with the increased fire danger, the park has received additional fire fighters and a fire engine from Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas. Extra Park Rangers have also been brought on board to assist Chickasaw National Recreation Area during this time period.
While the summer heat is producing near record setting conditions for some areas in south-central Oklahoma, campers are still enjoying visiting campgrounds at Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Visitors can still water ski or swim in the Lake of the Arbuckles to find relief from the July sun. Visitors may visit the Travertine Nature Center which is open each day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Children are also invited to participate in the park's Junior Ranger program.
For more information about camping and other activities at Chickasaw National Recreation Area, visit www.nps.gov/chic/ or call the Travertine Nature Center, 580-622-7234.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
