Grand Lake is the largest of Oklahoma's reservoirs by volume, covering 46,500 acres with 1,300 miles of shoreline in northeast Oklahoma. RV parks near Afton, Oklahoma typically remain open year-round but experience highest occupancy from May through September when water temperatures reach the mid-80s. Most camping facilities in the area are situated within a 20-minute drive of Grand Lake O' the Cherokees.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Visitors staying at Blowing Springs RV Park & Campsites can access nearby trail systems. "There are great hiking trails in wooded hills on either side of the campground. The hiking trails up top are really pretty and surprising. I came across a cemetery up on a bluff, and found another small spring," notes Annie C.
Mountain biking: The Bella Vista area offers excellent biking trails. "This camp ground is close to a mecca of both biking and mountain biking trails," says Mike B. who stayed at Blowing Springs. The location provides "incredible instant access to the trailhead of many singletrack bike and hiking trails."
Fishing access: Pine Island RV Resort offers water access with boat-in camping options. One camper mentions, "We come here and stay every summer! The remote location is great when you want to get away and feel like you are actually camping."
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Many campers appreciate the water views at Waters Edge RV & Cabin Resort. "We stayed at one of the Premium Waterfront sites in early April and absolutely loved it! Having a picnic and campfire area right next to the water was a unique experience for a campground," writes Jenifer L.
Clean facilities: Campers regularly mention well-maintained amenities at RV parks near Afton. "The bathroom & shower facilities are always clean, with excellent water pressure, and hot water," notes Brittany G. about Pine Island RV Resort.
Convenient locations: Whispering Woods RV Park gets positive reviews for its accessibility. "Easy to get in and out. Free shuttle to the casino if desired. Nice bathhouse and showers. Beautiful view," states Carrie.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many campsites at Grand Lake fill quickly during summer. "It looks like many of the people here have year-around rentals so I would imagine if you are booking throughout the summer, you'll want to get your reservation in as early as possible," advises a Waters Edge visitor.
Electrical setup: Some campgrounds have unusual utility layouts. "One thing you will want to note is that you may need an electrical extension if you're bringing a towable as the electric is on the opposite side from the sewer and water," reports a camper at Waters Edge.
Limited dump stations: Not all campgrounds offer sanitary dumps. "The campground does have a supply of these, if needed. Oh, and the wireless can be spotty depending on your site location in the park," notes Jenifer L.
Varied terrain: Grand Lake O' the Cherokees RV Resort by Rjourney offers diverse site options. "Sites are good size and can accommodate large rigs. Full hookups, nice common area... easy access to launch ramps," reports John F.
Tips for camping with families
Lakefront safety: Some lakefront camping areas have steep dropoffs. "The drop off from the camp sites to the lake was so steep that we had to constantly remind our children to stay back from the edge. Luckily, there were no mishaps," cautions Kevin H. about Waters Edge.
Recreation options: Families appreciate having activities beyond water sports. "We absolutely love the mini golf course and game facility, as well as the Eagles Nest! There's nothing better than sitting out on the deck watching the sun set after a long day on the lake," says Brittany G. about Pine Island.
Shaded sites: Downstream RV Park provides concrete pads with some grassy areas. "Clean. Safe. Great for an overnight on our way from Joplin to OK City. $30 for electricity and water. Easy check in and plenty of spots," notes Jennifer M.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV campsites vary in proximity at different Grand Lake campgrounds. "Most, if not all, spots have decks overlooking the water. Also, the spots had full hookups!" shares Brandy C. about Waters Edge.
Cell reception: Connectivity can vary by location. "We got 3 bars on Verizon and the park WiFi was average for a park this size," notes a visitor to Grand Lake O' the Cherokees RV Resort.
Level pads: Most RV parks in the Afton area feature gravel or concrete pads. "It is a parking lot behind a casino but backs up to a beautiful pasture with pond. Site had electric and water. Community sewer drop with washout. No wifi but cellular was good," explains Sommer J.
