Tent camping around Arcadia Lake offers diverse experiences from primitive lakeside sites to unique accommodations on working ranches. Central Oklahoma's red dirt terrain provides a distinctive backdrop for camping, with temperatures ranging from 90°F+ in summer to below freezing in winter. The region's waterways are known for their reddish-brown coloration, typical of Oklahoma's clay-rich soil composition.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Liberty Lake in Guthrie provides excellent fishing access with a dedicated pier and boat ramp. According to James S., it's a "Great place to take the kids, grandkids to Fish and have fun behind the boat on toys."
Paddling exploration: Shawnee Twin Lakes offers unique dual-lake exploration. One visitor noted: "The dams were cool to see. It was easy to walk in and get a permit for camping and fishing. Friendly staff."
Alpaca interactions: For a unique camping experience, Lazy H Alpaca Ranch allows visitors to camp alongside alpacas. Patty S. shares: "We got to pet the Alpacas and the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company."
Water recreation: Multiple lakes in the region support boating activities beyond fishing. Julie H. commented about Shawnee Twin Lakes: "The swimming areas were nice and it was perfect for our boat!!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Liberty Lake offers more secluded tent camping compared to other area campgrounds. Crystal C. observed: "I really liked that this location by far seemed more established than the other city maintained option and also had more privacy overall."
Lakefront access: Many tent sites around Arcadia Lake provide direct water views. Hillary B. explained about Liberty Lake: "We just stayed for one night, it was super quiet and calm. The campsites were minimal but had lots of space and were right on the lake."
Scenic surroundings: The terrain offers natural beauty throughout the day. Lisa P. described Shawnee Twin Lakes: "Beautiful sunset views and nice, spacious, clean campsites all with fire pits with attached grill!"
Unique accommodations: Beyond traditional tent camping, OK Treehouse provides alternative options. Catherine C. shared: "A sacred spot in Oklahoma City worth of meditation and communion with nature- priceless."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds offer basic amenities only. At Liberty Lake, Crystal C. notes: "Restrooms are only port a potty units and with recent winds some of these had been knocked over or damaged by tree limbs, so that is something to consider."
Site accessibility: Road conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. Crystal C. describes Liberty Lake: "I was pleasantly surprised as the road turned to packed rock and dirt and started to get more and more remote in appearance."
Campground closures: Always verify current status before traveling. At Shawnee Twin Lakes, Nancy B. reported: "The designated campground is now closed to camping. We ended up staying at the boat ramp."
Weather preparedness: Oklahoma's climate can change rapidly. One Liberty Lake visitor advised: "Check weather before traveling, it is very common for bad weather to roll through this area and with all of the trees you want to make sure you are safe."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some lakeside campgrounds include recreational facilities. James D. observed at Shawnee Twin Lakes: "There is a playground and picnic pavilion which would be good for families."
Water quality consideration: Swimming conditions vary by location. James D. noted: "My wife found it a bit boring but she isn't as into fishing as I am. She just enjoyed the water. She went swimming and said the water was nice."
Multi-tent sites: For family groups needing multiple tents, Whitetail Trail - North Fork offers flexibility. Mason H. explains: "Site says 3 tents max but you could probably fit 5 if you park a bit farther back on the road."
Nature hazards: Be aware of potential plant irritants. Zahru A. warns from experience at Shawnee Twin Lakes: "As we were exploring the area my wife got bit or came across some ivy."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Many lakeside campgrounds lack full RV services. Julie H. noted about Shawnee Twin Lakes: "We did fine tent camping but nothing for electric hook ups."
Parking considerations: Site layouts vary considerably between campgrounds. Jessica W. commented about Liberty Lake: "The parking lot is bigger than the grass areas you have to work with."
Alternative accommodations: Sky Valley Acres offers RV-friendly options. Ash C. describes it as an "Excellent little spot hidden away" that's "well maintained and peaceful, great for a night stop over or a several night stay."
Fire pit configurations: Different campgrounds offer various cooking setups. Lisa P. appreciated that Shawnee Twin Lakes has "fire pits with attached grill! The price per site/night allows for two tents on one site!"