Part of the US Army Corps of Engineers' Fort Gibson Lake system, this primitive campground operates seasonally from April through October with both drive-in and boat-in access. The site provides basic electric and water hookups for RVs, though reviewers note the access road can be rough. Portable toilets serve the area, and campers report mixed experiences with cleanliness standards.
The campground sits near the Arkansas River with fishing opportunities available from the shoreline. One reviewer describes the river as "dangerous but pretty to look at" and mentions swimming access on the southwest side of the dam. At $14 per night for non-hookup sites, the location attracts anglers and boaters seeking affordable lakeside camping, though pet restrictions apply and the small size means limited capacity during busy periods.
Description
Overview
Dam Site Campground is situated below Fort Gibson Dam on the west bank of the Grand River in northeastern Oklahoma. The campground was severely damaged during the 2019 flood. None of the campsites offer water or electric. The campground is open for day use and primitive camping.The group shelter and Overlook shelter are only reservable through recreation.gov
Recreation
The nearly 20,000-acre lake offers great boating and swimming opportunities. Anglers enjoy fishing for black bass, white bass, crappie and several varieties of catfish and panfish. The lake's 225 miles of shoreline are home to thousands of acres of public hunting lands, where white-tailed deer, bobwhite quail, mourning dove, duck, geese, cottontail rabbit and squirrel roam.
Facilities
This seasonal campground offers 23 primitive campsites. Large family groups can take advange of the group day use shelter within the park, as well as, one located at the Overlook.
Natural Features
Fort Gibson Lake sits nearly 8 miles from the confluence of the Grand and Arkansas Rivers. An oak-hickory woodland covers the rolling hills of the region. A wide variety of waterfowl migrates through the area annually and provides plenty of opportunities for bird watchers.
Nearby Attractions
Historic Fort Gibson, established in 1824, served as an important military post on the western frontier for close to 70 years. Now a National Historical Landmark, the site is open to the public year round. Volunteers reenact the lifestyle of the late 1800s during various events held throughout the year. A reconstructed log stockade, and original barracks, hospital, bakehouse and other structures still stand today.
Reservation Info
No reservations.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Dam Site Closure - The west side of Dam Site (including the Dam Site North boat ramp) will be closed starting first part of April for the bridge deck replacement across the Fort Gibson dam. Access will be restricted to construction and Corps personnel only. Area will be closed for a minimum of 2 1/2 years. Dam Site East fishing wall and the Overlook areas will remain open.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundDam Site - Fort Gibson Lake - Primitive Camping is located in Oklahoma
Directions
Updated with Fort Gibson Dam closure.From Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, turn onto US-62 W. Turn right onto OK-16 E/Okay Rd/N York St and continue to follow OK-16 E. Continue onto OK-251A E. The park will be on your right at the bottom of the hill just before the dam.
Address
8568 STATE HWY. 251A
Fort gibson, OK 74434-9619
Coordinates
35.8677778 N
95.2336111 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/20/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/20/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
Drive Time
- 49 min from Tulsa, OK
- 1 hr 20 min from Fort Smith, AR
- 1 hr 39 min from Fayetteville, AR
- 1 hr 57 min from Joplin, MO



