Arcadia Lake spans over 1,820 acres with a maximum depth of 40 feet, making it a popular glamping destination in central Oklahoma. Located at approximately 1,050 feet elevation near Edmond, the lake offers developed camping areas with varying terrain from open grasslands to wooded sections. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with spring typically providing the highest water conditions for recreation.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Arcadia Lake contains multiple species including bass, crappie, and catfish. "Got to lake #1 did some fishing. As I am not that good at it I didn't even catch a bite. That's was like my second time fishing," notes a visitor to Shawnee Twin Lakes, which offers similar fishing experiences to Arcadia.
Hiking trails: Explore wooded areas around the lake with trails of varying difficulty. "We walked and seen some trails ended up spending most of the trip on land," mentions another Shawnee Twin Lakes visitor. Trails at Arcadia Lake are typically well-marked and range from short 0.5-mile loops to longer 3-mile paths.
Equestrian activities: Bell Cow Lake Campground C features "miles of equestrian trails. Hiked down one and the trail was very peaceful and beautiful." Arcadia Lake also offers horse-friendly trails with similar terrain and views.
What campers like
Buffalo viewing: Near Arcadia Lake, Rockwell RV Park offers unique wildlife viewing. "The kids loved the 7 baby Buffalo on the property," shares one reviewer. Another mentions, "Yes indeed 5 Buffalo on property. Fun viewing."
Open camping spaces: Many campsites provide ample room to spread out equipment. "Really nice open spaces to set up camp," notes one Arcadia Lake visitor, while another appreciated the layout: "Great campsite! Picnic tables and fire pits. Walking distance to the beautiful lake."
Water activities: The lake supports multiple recreation options. A visitor to Shawnee Twin Lakes states, "The swimming areas were nice and it was perfect for our boat!!" Arcadia Lake offers similar water recreation with dedicated swimming areas and boat ramps.
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Spring weather can bring muddy trails. A Bell Cow camper reported: "It had recently rained a lot, so I had a thick layer of red mud on my shoes from the hike."
Facility maintenance: Bathroom conditions vary by campground and season. "Bathrooms were kind of gross but I expect that's due to visiting in a shoulder season," noted one camper at Bell Cow Lake.
Campsite cleanliness: Some sites may need attention upon arrival. "Our campsite had trash there when we got there. No big deal we cleaned it, but because of the food on the ground from the previous campers, our camp site was filled with flys," shares a Bell Cow Lake visitor.
Wildlife considerations: Lazy H Alpaca Ranch near Arcadia Lake allows for unique animal interactions. "We got to pet the Alpacas and the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company," reports one camper, showing the diverse wildlife experiences in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play facilities. "There is a playground and picnic pavilion which would be good for families," mentions a visitor to Shawnee Twin Lakes. Similar facilities exist at Arcadia Lake campgrounds.
Swimming safety: Lake conditions change throughout the season. "She went swimming and said the water was nice. There were some people skiing on the lake," reports a Shawnee Twin Lakes camper about family-friendly water activities.
Shelter facilities: Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center campers appreciate safety features: "Always have fun when I'm here with the family!" The center provides storm shelters similar to those at some Arcadia Lake glamping sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites at Arcadia Lake offer various utility connections. At Bell Cow Lake, a camper noted: "Water hook up and 30 amp. We stayed in 'Area B,' Campsite #4. Several shady spots. Easy water access."
Dump station locations: "The dump location is near the restrooms by the boat dock. It's a little hidden," shares a Bell Cow Lake visitor, providing the type of practical information relevant for Arcadia Lake RVers.
Site spacing: RV sites offer varying levels of privacy. "Each tent site had a table but it either had a fire ring or a grille (alternating) it would have been preferable if each site had both," notes a Bell Cow Lake camper, describing a campground layout similar to some Arcadia Lake glamping options.
