Camp Garland

For Oklahoma locals seeking an immersive outdoor experience that combines natural beauty with a wealth of activities, Camp Garland in Iron Post offers a unique opportunity. While primarily known as a significant facility for Scouting organizations, its extensive amenities and diverse landscape make it a remarkable destination for outdoor education, group retreats, and those who appreciate a more structured approach to wilderness engagement. Nestled along the banks of Spring Creek, Camp Garland is a place where adventure, learning, and connection with nature truly flourish.

Located in the heart of northeastern Oklahoma, Iron Post is part of a region rich in natural resources and outdoor recreational potential. For Oklahoma residents, having a facility like Camp Garland within reach provides an invaluable resource for youth development and outdoor exploration. It's a place where generations have learned self-reliance, teamwork, and an appreciation for the environment, making it a cornerstone for many local families and organizations.

Camp Garland stands out not just as a camping spot, but as a comprehensive outdoor learning and activity center. Beyond traditional tent campsites, it boasts a variety of indoor facilities, specialized program areas, and high adventure components that cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels. This multi-faceted approach ensures that visitors, especially youth groups, can engage in diverse activities, from classic campfire songs to challenging ropes courses, all within a safe and supportive environment.

Imagine a setting where the natural beauty of Spring Creek complements purpose-built facilities for archery, rifle, and shotgun ranges, or where you can conquer your fears on a high adventure zipline. Camp Garland offers these possibilities, making it more than just a place to sleep under the stars; it's a destination for growth, challenge, and unforgettable experiences. Its historical significance, particularly within the Scouting community, further imbues it with a sense of tradition and enduring value for Oklahomans.

Camp Garland is located in Iron Post, OK 74352, USA. Iron Post is a community situated in southeastern Mayes County, in the northeastern part of Oklahoma. This location places Camp Garland within a region known for its rolling hills, woodlands, and waterways, characteristic of the Green Country area of the state.

Accessing Camp Garland is generally straightforward for Oklahoma residents. The camp is specifically described as being located along the banks of Spring Creek, a tributary that flows into the Neosho River (part of the larger Fort Gibson Lake system). Detailed directions often guide visitors via Oklahoma State Highway 412 East towards Locust Grove, OK, and then a turn onto Highway 82. The camp itself is typically about 1 mile from Highway 82, often taking a left turn after a bridge when traveling south on Hwy 82.

For those traveling from major Oklahoma cities, the accessibility is quite reasonable. From Tulsa, the drive to Iron Post is generally about an hour to an hour and a half, making it a convenient destination for weekend events or longer camps. From Oklahoma City, the journey would be longer, typically around 2.5 to 3 hours. The rural roads leading to the camp are generally well-maintained, allowing for easy navigation. Its strategic position in northeastern Oklahoma makes it an ideal base for programs and activities that draw participants from across the state and even neighboring regions, providing a valuable resource for outdoor and educational pursuits.

• Tent Campsites: Numerous designated tent campsites (e.g., Alpine, Binkley, Cappy, Denny, Hardesty, Nikel, Robson, Wozencraft, Zarrow campsites) equipped for various group sizes.

• Restroom & Shower Facilities: Available, with some bath houses offering individual flush toilets (note: some facilities may be winterized from November 1 - April 1, with pit latrines available nearby).

• Frost-Free Spigots: Available at some campsites for winter water access.

• Covered Pavilions: Several program pavilions (e.g., Podpechan Program Pavilions, McElroy Outdoor Kitchen Pavilion, 9 Pavillions at Brock Lake, 4 Pavillions at Robson Sports Fields) providing sheltered gathering spaces with tables.

• Dining Halls: Multipurpose dining halls (Hardesty, Helmerich) designed for large groups.

• Meeting Halls: Multipurpose meeting halls (Siegfried) for various educational or group activities.

• Chapel: Babbitt Chapel available for spiritual gatherings.

• Archery, Rifle, & Shotgun Ranges: Dedicated facilities for shooting sports with proper supervision.

• COPE Course/Ropes Course: Challenging outdoor adventure courses designed for team building and personal development.

• Zip Lines: High adventure zipline experiences.

• Hiking Trails: Extensive network of trails for exploration and nature walks.

• Boat Dock: Access to Brock Lake for water activities.

• Sports Fields: Robson Sports Fields for various athletic activities.

• Amphitheater: Brown Amphitheater with fire pits and seating for large outdoor gatherings and skits.

• Program Pavilions: Numerous pavilions for various activities.

• Flag Plaza: Judy Smith Flag Plaza for ceremonies.

• High Adventure Areas (at ZBASE): Access to a broader range of high adventure activities including a 70' Aerial Tower, 1300' Zipline, Ninja Warrior Course, Jet Skis & more (these are part of the larger Mabee Scout Reservation, which Camp Garland is a part of).

• Comprehensive Outdoor Education: Camp Garland is a robust facility designed for fostering self-reliance, resourcefulness, spiritual growth, and social development through outdoor activities, primarily for youth groups.

• Diverse Program Offerings: Beyond traditional camping, it offers specialized programs like shooting sports (archery, rifle, shotgun), COPE/Ropes courses, and ziplines, providing a wide array of challenging and engaging activities.

• Extensive Facilities: Features numerous tent campsites, multiple covered pavilions, dining and meeting halls, restrooms with individual flush toilets (seasonal), and an amphitheater, accommodating both small groups and large district events.

• Beautiful Natural Setting: Nestled along the banks of Spring Creek, the camp provides a picturesque and natural environment for outdoor immersion.

• Year-Round Accessibility for some amenities: While some facilities are winterized, key features like pit latrines and frost-free spigots allow for year-round use of certain campsites.

• High Adventure Opportunities: As part of the larger Mabee Scout Reservation, it offers access to advanced high adventure areas, including a 70' Aerial Tower and a 1300' Zipline, catering to thrill-seekers.

• Historical Significance: Has been a long-standing and significant Boy Scout camp in northeastern Oklahoma, carrying a rich history in youth development.

Address: Iron Post, OK 74352, USA (This is the primary mailing address for the general location of the camp. Specific internal directions are usually provided upon reservation or by contacting the organization directly.)

Phone: (405) 258-1460 (This phone number appears to be associated with Bell Cow Lake Campground, based on prior search. For Camp Garland, inquiries are best directed through the Indian Nations Council or Mabee Scout Reservation directly for accurate contact information and reservations).

Mobile Phone: +1 405-258-1460 (Similar to above, this number may not be directly for Camp Garland. Please consult official Scouting Oklahoma websites for definitive contact details for Camp Garland reservations and inquiries.)

For Oklahoma locals, especially those involved in youth organizations or seeking a structured and enriching outdoor experience, Camp Garland in Iron Post stands as an unparalleled resource. Its prime location in the scenic Green Country of northeastern Oklahoma ensures relatively easy accessibility from major population centers like Tulsa and Oklahoma City, making it a convenient choice for various programs and retreats. This ease of access means more time for participants to engage in activities and less time spent on travel.

What truly sets Camp Garland apart for local users is its comprehensive suite of facilities and programs. Unlike a typical public campground, Camp Garland is designed to foster specific skills and personal growth, offering everything from basic tent campsites to advanced high adventure activities like COPE courses and ziplines, as well as dedicated ranges for shooting sports. This diverse offering makes it ideal for Scout troops, youth groups, and even adult teams looking for team-building exercises or specialized outdoor training.

Furthermore, the presence of amenities such as indoor facilities, multiple dining and meeting halls, and well-maintained restrooms (even with seasonal considerations) ensures a comfortable yet immersive outdoor experience. The camp's long-standing history and its role within the Scouting community in Oklahoma also mean it provides a trusted and proven environment for development. For Oklahoma families and organizations prioritizing structured outdoor education, skill-building, and creating lasting memories in a beautiful, well-equipped natural setting, Camp Garland offers an exceptional and highly suitable option right in their own backyard.

Camp Garland

Iron Post, OK 74352, USA