Rock Creek originates in the Arbuckle Mountains region of south-central Oklahoma, flowing generally southward through Pontotoc and Murray Counties before joining the Washita River. This tributary drains portions of the Cross Timbers and Central Great Plains ecoregions, creating a transition zone where upland characteristics meet lowland river systems. The creek's headwaters emerge from springs and seeps in Pontotoc County, where limestone geology contributes to the cold, clear water quality that characterizes its upper reaches.

As Rock Creek flows through Murray County, it passes through the city of Sulphur, where it becomes part of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Within the park boundaries, the creek features travertine formations, small waterfalls including areas near Little Niagara, and spring-fed pools that maintain consistent flows even during dry periods.

Water quality monitoring conducted through the Blue Thumb program has documented Rock Creek at multiple sites, including locations along Highway 33 and near the Oklahoma Street monitoring point in Murray County. Chemical testing has shown generally good dissolved oxygen levels and moderate nutrient concentrations, though bacterial levels can fluctuate seasonally.

The creek supports populations of sunfish species, minnows, and benthic macroinvertebrates including mayflies and caddisflies in its healthier reaches. Riparian vegetation along Rock Creek includes mature oak and hickory forests in the upper watershed, transitioning to mixed bottomland species downstream. The creek corridor provides habitat for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various songbird species. Aquatic life includes creek chubs, longear sunfish, and green sunfish, with occasional sightings of river cooters basking on logs.

Access to Rock Creek is most readily available within Chickasaw National Recreation Area, where Rock Creek Campground serves as a primary entry point. The campground sits near Veterans Lake and provides access to swimming areas, though the creek itself is relatively small for watercraft navigation. In Pontotoc County, crossings at various county roads offer limited access points, primarily for landowners and anglers.

The creek holds cultural significance as part of the historic Platt National Park lands, established in 1906 and later incorporated into Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Native American groups, particularly the Chickasaw Nation, have historical connections to the springs and waters of this watershed.

Summer months bring increased recreational use, particularly for wading and swimming in designated areas. Winter flows remain relatively stable due to spring contributions. Visitors should note that certain upstream sections flow through private property, and access restrictions apply outside the national recreation area boundaries.