Williamson Family Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Oklahoma locals seeking an enriching and activity-filled outdoor experience, Williamson Family Campground in Locust Grove offers a unique destination unlike a conventional public campground. Situated within the sprawling 600 wooded acres of the Mabee Scout Reservation, this facility is primarily known as the home of the T.D. Williamson Family Shooting Sports Complex and provides a fantastic setting for a variety of family camping, scout events, and specialized training programs. It's a place where the sounds of nature blend with the excitement of outdoor skills, nestled along the picturesque banks of Spring Creek.

Williamson Family Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a dynamic environment designed to foster outdoor appreciation, skill development, and memorable experiences for all ages. While it caters significantly to Scouting organizations, its "family camp" designation suggests it welcomes broader family use, making it an excellent option for Oklahomans looking for a structured yet natural setting for their next getaway. From rustic camping to state-of-the-art shooting ranges, this unique locale in Locust Grove promises a blend of relaxation and adventure, all within the beautiful landscape of northeastern Oklahoma.

Location and Accessibility

Williamson Family Campground is located at the Mabee Scout Reservation, specifically at 6500 E 590, Locust Grove, OK 74352, USA. Locust Grove is a charming town in Mayes County, Oklahoma, situated in the northeastern part of the state. This location provides a relatively accessible retreat into nature for many Oklahoma residents.

Accessibility to the Mabee Scout Reservation is straightforward. From Tulsa, a major metropolitan hub, visitors can take US-412 East towards Locust Grove. The reservation is located approximately five miles south of Locust Grove. After exiting the Cherokee Turnpike (part of US-412) at Highway 82, you travel south for about two miles, then take the first left after crossing a bridge. The Williamson Family Shooting Sports Complex and family camp entrance are approximately 1.5 miles from Highway 82, turning south for half a mile. The entrance is on the right. This clear set of directions ensures that even first-time visitors can navigate to the camp with relative ease.

The geographic position of Locust Grove means that Williamson Family Campground is within a reasonable driving distance for many Oklahoma families. From Tulsa, the drive is typically around an hour. From Oklahoma City, while longer, it's a manageable journey of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. The camp's location along the banks of Spring Creek further enhances its natural appeal, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor activities. This combination of convenient access and a beautiful natural setting makes Williamson Family Campground a practical and attractive choice for locals seeking an engaging outdoor experience without venturing too far from home.

Services Offered

Williamson Family Campground, being part of the Mabee Scout Reservation, offers a range of services primarily geared towards outdoor activities, skill development, and group events, though it also functions as a "family camp." Its offerings are more structured than a typical public campground.

• Rustic Camping: The campground provides opportunities for rustic camping within its wooded acres, perfect for those who enjoy a traditional outdoor experience.
• Modern Bathroom Facilities: Modern bathroom facilities with private showers are available at the campsites, providing a significant level of comfort for campers.
• Dining Hall Access: For certain programs and events, meals may be served in an air-conditioned dining hall, offering a comfortable alternative to campsite cooking.
• Williamson Shooting Sports Complex: A state-of-the-art facility offering a wide array of shooting sports, including:
  • Sporting Clays
  • Archery
  • Rifle Shooting
  • Shotgun Shooting
  • Pistol Shooting
  • Black Powder Rifle Shooting
  Recreational shooting opportunities are available year-round for individuals, groups, and clubs.
• Program Areas: The Mabee Scout Reservation, which includes Williamson Family Campground, features various program areas for activities such as:
  • Robson COPE Course (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience)
  • High Adventure activities, including one of the longest zip lines in Oklahoma (the Robson Zip Line).
  • Swimming and Canoeing (likely in Spring Creek or designated areas).
  • Fishing.
  • Games and Crafts.
  • Scout Skills and Nature Studies.
• Covered Pavilions: Some campsites, such as the Alpine Campsite within Camp Garland (part of Mabee Scout Reservation), feature covered pavilions with tables, ideal for group gatherings and dining.
• Winter Use Amenities: Frost-free spigots are available for water access during winter months at certain sites.
• Reservation System: Facilities can be reserved, indicating a structured booking process for groups and possibly families.

Features / Highlights

Williamson Family Campground and its broader setting within the Mabee Scout Reservation boast a variety of features that make it a compelling destination for Oklahoma locals seeking active and engaging outdoor experiences.

• Premier Shooting Sports Complex: The T.D. Williamson Family Shooting Sports Complex is a major highlight, offering a state-of-the-art facility for a wide range of recreational shooting activities. This feature is unique and provides an exceptional opportunity for enthusiasts.
• Expansive Wooded Property: The 600 wooded acres of the Mabee Scout Reservation provide ample space for exploration, hiking, and a true sense of being immersed in nature.
• Located on Spring Creek: Nestled along the banks of Spring Creek, the campground offers picturesque views, the soothing sound of flowing water, and opportunities for creek-side activities.
• Modern Comforts in a Rustic Setting: The availability of modern bathroom facilities with private showers at campsites, and potentially an air-conditioned dining hall, strikes a good balance between rustic camping and comfortable amenities.
• Diverse Activities for All Ages: Beyond shooting sports, the reservation offers a wide array of activities, including high adventure elements like a long zip line, COPE courses, swimming, canoeing, fishing, and various scout skills, ensuring there's something for everyone.
• Family and Group Friendly: The designation as a "family camp" and its suitability for "large District events, training courses, and unit camping" underscore its capacity and design for accommodating both individual families and larger groups.
• Year-Round Recreational Opportunities: With shooting sports available year-round and winter-use amenities like frost-free spigots, the facility offers opportunities for outdoor enjoyment across all seasons.
• Well-Managed and Maintained: As part of a scout reservation, the facilities are typically well-maintained and managed, ensuring a quality and safe experience for visitors.

Contact Information

For Oklahoma locals interested in booking a stay at Williamson Family Campground, organizing a group event, or inquiring about the T.D. Williamson Family Shooting Sports Complex, the primary point of contact is generally through the Indian Nations Council of the Boy Scouts of America, which operates the Mabee Scout Reservation.

Address: Locust Grove, OK 74352, USA (specifically, within Mabee Scout Reservation at 6500 E 590, Locust Grove, OK 74352)

While specific phone numbers for "Williamson Family Campground" might not be listed separately, all inquiries should be directed to the Indian Nations Council. Their contact information can typically be found on their official website (e.g., okscouts.org) or through general inquiries for the Mabee Scout Reservation.

General contact number for Indian Nations Council (Boy Scouts of America), which manages the reservation: (918) 743-6125 (This is a common contact for the council and may connect you to reservation staff).

When contacting, be sure to clearly state your interest in Williamson Family Campground or the T.D. Williamson Family Shooting Sports Complex at the Mabee Scout Reservation in Locust Grove. This will help the staff direct your inquiry effectively, whether it's about reserving a family campsite, booking a shooting range session, or learning more about specific programs available. Pre-booking, especially for group events or shooting range access, is highly recommended to ensure availability.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Oklahoma locals, Williamson Family Campground in Locust Grove offers an exceptionally suitable and versatile destination for outdoor recreation and family engagement. Its primary appeal lies in its unique dual identity: a serene family camping spot nestled along Spring Creek, combined with access to a state-of-the-art shooting sports complex. This blend provides a diverse range of activities that cater to various interests within the family, from those seeking quiet relaxation in nature to enthusiasts eager for target practice.

The campground's location within the Mabee Scout Reservation, easily accessible from major Oklahoma cities like Tulsa and Oklahoma City, makes it a convenient choice for weekend getaways or longer stays. Locals can quickly transition from urban environments to a beautiful, wooded setting without extensive travel. The presence of modern bathroom facilities with private showers ensures a comfortable camping experience, bridging the gap between rustic charm and essential amenities, which is a significant draw for families.

Furthermore, the wide array of activities available, including high adventure elements like zip lines and COPE courses, alongside traditional outdoor pursuits like hiking, swimming, and fishing, ensures that boredom is never an option. For families with children involved in Scouting, or simply those looking to introduce their kids to outdoor skills and responsible firearm use in a safe, controlled environment, Williamson Family Campground is an unparalleled resource. It’s a place where Oklahomans can foster a love for the outdoors, develop new skills, and create lasting memories, making it a truly valuable asset for local recreational pursuits.

Williamson Family Campground

Locust Grove, OK 74352, USA