Lake Murray State Park campgrounds near Ardmore, Oklahoma offer upscale glamping and traditional camping options across 12,500 acres of Oklahoma's first and largest state park. With water temperatures averaging 78°F during summer months and dropping to the 50s in winter, the clear blue-green waters contrast with Oklahoma's typically red-clay lakes. Many campgrounds at Lake Murray remain open year-round with varying seasonal amenities and crowd levels.
What to do
Hiking at Lake Murray: The Buckhorn Trail at Buckhorn Campground provides moderate hiking with lake views. "We hiked the Bromide Hill and Bison Overlook trails for some really nice views. Nearby swimming areas at Little Niagara and Travertine Creek were very packed during the day, so we only visited during the early morning when the water was very cold," notes Jasmine M.
Winter exploration: Lake Murray offers a different experience during off-season months. At The Point Campground, "We spend our summers boating and camping at the Lake of the Arbuckles. The Pointe campground is our favorite campground to stay at. Nice clean and well taken care of restrooms and large camp sites," says Jennifer, who regularly visits the area.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing ponds provide diverse angling experiences for both casual and serious fishing enthusiasts. A visitor to Buzzards Roost noted, "There's a short path leading down to the lake with a bit of bank area that was good for fishing," making it accessible even for those without boats.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Many campgrounds offer walk-in tent camping areas with greater privacy than RV sections. At Marietta Landing Campground, "There are some very nice walk in tent camping sites where you could walk down to the rocky lake edge and swim. There are also a few drive in tent sites," notes Susan L.
Winter camping benefits: Off-season camping provides a completely different experience with fewer crowds. Jake, who visited Elephant Rock Campground in December, reported, "Chose a nice spot adjacent to the Lake where I was visited by a friendly goose for breakfast. Took a run around the area on several miles of developed trails and roads. Campsites are relatively close together and I can see how the place may get crowded in the summer, but it was almost completely vacant in December."
Clean facilities: Multiple campers highlight the well-maintained facilities across campgrounds. At Tipps Point Campground, Eric R. observed, "The bathrooms and showers were awesome. Good sized areas for tents. Swimming area was fun and easily accessible."
What you should know
Booking requirements: For holiday weekends, advance reservations are essential. "If you like to camp and be secluded this isn't the park. There are a couple great spots but they go fast. We got here on Wednesday and most of the secluded spots were taken. I'm guessing for the anticipation of the holiday weekend," reports Zahru A. at Turner Falls Park.
Site selection considerations: Waterfront sites fill quickly but may have tradeoffs. At Tipps Point Campground, a reviewer warned, "Great sites around this lake but if only the area around #9 is open you might want to rethink. Right on top of each other and the picnic tables, fire pits are oddly placed."
Seasonal differences: Water levels and accessibility change throughout the year. As Crystal C. mentioned about Marietta Landing, "After having been to this location several times previously I have noticed that following a holiday it can take a bit longer to get it all clean because people do not seem to understand honoring the trash in trash out policy."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Buzzards Roost Campground provides family-friendly amenities including playgrounds. "Nice campground, tents only. Beautiful and quiet (minus a couple of geese who like to honk at each other). Vault toilets," notes Katherine C. about the nearby Ski Jump area.
Swimming areas: Designated swimming areas provide safer water access for children. Jordan H. observed at Elephant Rock, "We stayed in elephant rock 2 site 44, we had a great view of the lake, however we didn't realize we would need 50 feet of hose just to hook up to the water, and there were glass bottles all in the swim area."
Educational opportunities: Tucker's Tower nature center offers learning experiences. "Great educational programs on nature and Native American history. Swimming is amazing, you can play in springs and waterfalls. Nice wooded and private campsites," explains Lynn G.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Red River Rose RV Resort (now Ardmore Lakes RV Resort) offers full hookups with nearby amenities. Richard G. notes, "Friendly and helpful staff. Very clean, easy parking, with plenty of space. The lots are long so no trouble parking an extra vehicle. Fishing pond, fishing/swimming pond with water slides, and a swimming pool."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require substantial leveling equipment. At Buckhorn Campground, Gina H. warns, "We stayed at Loop C site 56. Great view of the lake, clean restrooms and showers! Campground hosts were friendly and helpful! Just beware if you are camping in an RV, the site is VERY unlevel! We were in a pop up camper and had one tire up off the ground at least 6 inches with our Baleveler."
Site length limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. Susan L. points out about Marietta Landing, "It's also a smaller campground which accommodates smaller RV's. Also, there is boat ramp, but it is not large and has little parking, plus it's not located down the road that leads to the campsites."
