Little Sandy Campground, near Norman, Oklahoma, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors without straying too far from home. With spacious sites that offer electric and water hookups, it’s a practical choice for both tent campers and RV enthusiasts.

The campground is known for its well-maintained facilities, including a central dump station and clean picnic areas. Visitors have mentioned that the sites are generally well-spaced, providing a bit of privacy, especially during the quieter weekdays. As one camper noted, “Sites are well spaced apart and pretty level,” making it easier to settle in and relax.

Outdoor activities abound here, with fishing, hiking, and biking opportunities right at your fingertips. The nearby lake is a popular draw, and many campers appreciate the chance to cast a line or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. Just keep in mind that weekends can get a bit busy, so if you prefer a quieter experience, aim for a midweek visit.

While some campers have pointed out that the bathrooms could use some attention, the overall vibe of the campground remains friendly and welcoming. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a longer stay, Little Sandy Campground offers a convenient and enjoyable outdoor experience.

Tent and RV campgrounds on the (Alameda Drive) or north side of the lake include Little Sandy.

The campgrounds have tent campsites as well as RV sites with 30 and/or 50-amp electric, water, and some with sewer. Comfort stations with toilet facilities and showers are nearby and some campgrounds have playgroups.

Recreational activities include boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and equestrian trails. Mountain bike riders enjoy the challenge of the 11 miles of varied terrain on the Clear Bay Trails. The Discovery Cove Nature Center features live animals as well as animals on display, dioramas, aquariums and space for environmental education classes. For boaters convenience, The Calypso Cove Marina on the south side of the lake has fuel, a ship store and kayak, paddle boat rentals. Little River Marina, located on the north side also has fuel, a ship store and covered or open slip rental.

Little Sandy Campground — Lake Thunderbird State Park

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Norman. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Norman and user-submitted reviews.

Norman

The Best Camping Near Norman, Oklahoma

Hadn't been to Lake Thunderbird since I was a kid (40+ years ago) and all I could remember is that we always called it Lake Dirtybird because of the water. As far as that is concerned nothing has really changed. Typical central Oklahoma red water. 

We stayed a couple of nights at Little Sandy Campground. There weren't any full hookups and we had to stay at a spot that was water and electric only ... and boy were we glad. The full hookup sites in the next campground over -- Hickory Hill -- were packed in like sardines. Our site on the upper loop of Little Sandy was away from all the hubub but also away from the water, so there was that. If you don't mind being right up against the next camper, Hickory Hill has some full hookup sites right on the water. However, the upper loop of Little Sandy was nice with all the trees and the better-spaced sites. In my opinion spot 36 is the best one. No one can camp behind you and there's a lot of space to the south. The dump site it up on the main road about a quarter of mile north from the campground entrance and easily accessible.  
We stayed the first weekend of May 2020 ... the first weekend some of the COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. The place was PACKED, especially with tent campers. No judgment, just saying there were a lot of them. It was tough finding a path to the water without walking through someone's campsite. The water pressure was pretty low at the site and my guess it was due to all the sites being in use.  
All in all it was a nice weekend, but I've stayed at nicer and quieter places.

Crowded but a nice quick getaway

Avid tent camper here, camped from California to South Carolina. Wanted to spend the weekend close to home. And honestly just embarrassed to be from Oklahoma City with the way Thunderbird was. Stayed at Little Sandy 17. First every campsite we reserved had people on them so we had to kick people off multiple sites so we could set up. The bathrooms were a disgrace. Even after being “cleaned”. Will never go back to this place. 

Something from a horror movie

Typical state park. Was good for the value but will say the staff at the main office were very helpful! They saw to it that curfew was enforced!!!! COVID was is in place and staff saw to it that the state stds. were followed.

Nice well kept State Park!

Great quiet out of the way place.... during the week... weekends get a bit busy!!

Sites are well spaced apart and pretty level. Most have electric and water with a central located dump station near by.

Plenty of fishing to be had at the lake... hiking and biking also in area..

Wonderful Park!

Spacious campground with other campground in the area. Like Thunderbird, or Dirtybird as the locals call it gets a lot if use. Time to rebuild the horrible bathroom by the lake. Roads need to be replaced or major patching. Some campsites are very close to each other while others have good spacing. Stayed in one 30 amp RV site with water but no sweet. Dump station is well maintained. Concrete pads for RV’s blots if tent spaces but the bathrooms would spoil the fun. Price was tight for $25-$26 per night including power. 
Bugs , skunks, possum l, and 3 kinds of poisonous snakes. Though it was too cold for snakes. I’m from the Northwest so not used to these critters. 

Photos of Little Sandy Campground — Lake Thunderbird State Park

Real photos from real campers