Arcadia, Oklahoma camping areas sit at approximately 1,050 feet above sea level in a region characterized by mixed hardwood forests and rolling terrain. The area experiences humid subtropical climate conditions with hot summers reaching into the 90s and mild winters, creating extended camping seasons. Water levels at Arcadia Lake and surrounding waterways fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline camping and water access.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bell Cow Lake provides multiple fishing spots with varying conditions. "Great bass fishing here! The dams were cool to see. It was easy to walk in and get a permit for camping and fishing," notes a visitor to Shawnee Twin Lakes.
Equestrian trails: Miles of dedicated horse paths wind through the forested areas. "There are miles of equestrian trails. Hiked down one and the trail was very peaceful and beautiful. It had recently rained a lot, so I had a thick layer of red mud on my shoes from the hike, but glad I hiked it," shares a camper at Bell Cow Lake Campground C.
Clay harvesting: The red clay soil around certain lakes provides a unique activity for creative campers. "The lake is filled with red clay. My mom and I harvested some and made little figures and baked them in the sun. We had so much fun," explains a visitor to Bell Cow Lake.
Disc golf: The region offers dedicated disc golf courses with defined fairways. Local courses maintain regular hours from sunrise to sunset and welcome players of all skill levels.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds feature unique animal encounters. "The kids loved the 7 baby Buffalo on the property," mentions a camper at Rockwell RV Park. For a more exotic experience, some visitors enjoy alpaca farms: "We got to pet the Alpacas and the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company," notes a guest at Lazy H Alpaca Ranch.
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out. "Our site is beautiful and idyllic, right on the water with basically a beachfront! Perfect for camping with kids," mentions a camper about the shoreline sites.
Morning amenities: Some campgrounds offer unique morning offerings. "Free coffee and muffins every morning. Bathouses were very clean and well kept," explains a visitor to Rockwell RV Park.
Yurt camping options: Several locations near Arcadia provide yurt accommodations for those seeking a blend between tent camping and cabin stays. Yurt camping in Arcadia, Oklahoma offers visitors protection from weather while maintaining a more rustic feel than traditional cabins.
What you should know
Weekday availability: For campers seeking solitude, timing matters. "Very pleasantly surprised by this campground. Has everything you need for pretty cheap ($11 for tent/no hookup) including bathrooms, tables, trash, water and more. Only one other car on a weeknight in April, so very quiet and peaceful," shares a visitor to Bell Cow Lake Campground C.
Insect preparation: The region's climate supports active insect populations. "There were plenty of flies due to the time of year and the presence of horses, so a good fly swatter and a fly trap is recommended," advises a Bell Cow Lake camper.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise despite natural settings. "One of the only things we did not like was with the campsite being 2 miles from I-44 you could hear the highway traffic all night," notes a Bell Cow Lake visitor.
Specialized camping: OK Treehouse offers unique elevated accommodations. "Cool Treehouse with double bed. Outdoor Shower and camping toliet, kitchen. Groovy outdoor space with fire pit. Eclectic Artwork. Right off Rt 66," describes one visitor.
Yurt availability: Yurt camping around Arcadia, Oklahoma typically requires advance reservations, especially during peak season (May-September) when these popular accommodations fill quickly.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "There is a playground and picnic pavilion which would be good for families," mentions a visitor to Shawnee Twin Lakes.
Water safety: Swimming areas vary in bottom conditions and depth. "The swimming areas were nice and it was perfect for our boat!!" explains a Shawnee Twin Lakes camper. Some sites feature sandy bottoms while others have clay or rocky shores.
Site selection for kids: Campground layout impacts the family experience. "Our site is beautiful and idyllic, right on the water with basically a beachfront! Perfect for camping with kids," shares one family about their lakefront site at Oklahoma County Arcadia Lake City Park.
Footwear considerations: Lake access often requires appropriate shoes. "For anyone planning to camp, make sure u bring slip on shoes. U can go barefoot, we did. But the sand which is great at first... left our feet raw," advises a Bell Cow Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Storm shelter access: Oklahoma's weather patterns make this feature important. "They are well lit, have a tornado shelter and are near a multitude of stores and restaurants," notes a visitor to Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center.
Site spacing: RV parks vary in how close rigs are positioned. "It is much like a big parking lot and the spaces are very close but level. The staff is friendly and helpful. Quiet," explains a Rockwell RV Park camper.
Dump station locations: Some facilities have hidden waste disposal areas. "The dump location is near the restrooms by the boat dock. It's a little hidden," shares a Bell Cow Lake visitor.
Hookup variations: Electric and water connections differ between campgrounds. "Water hook up and 30 amp. We stayed in 'Area B,' Campsite #4. Several shady spots. Easy water access," explains a Bell Cow Lake camper describing their site specifics.
