McGee Creek State Park offers diverse glamping options near Atoka, Oklahoma across several camping areas. Situated among the Kiamichi Mountains at elevations ranging from 700-1,400 feet, the park experiences distinctive seasonal changes with occasional winter snowfall. Temperature swings can be significant, with summer highs regularly exceeding 95°F and winter lows dropping below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails for all skill levels: Tent Hill at McGee Creek State Park provides direct trail access from secluded camping sites. "I stayed at 'tent hill' primitive area. Spot number 3 and it was PERFECT! Wooded area, quiet, peaceful. Trail literally right across from the section," notes one visitor.
Fishing from covered docks: Lake Texoma offers numerous fishing platforms for anglers seeking catfish and crappie. A camper at Lake Texoma State Park reported, "We stayed here in October at an RV site right on the water... We took a nice hike and took the boat out for the day."
Swimming in clear water: Blue River Campground features natural swimming holes with rope swings. "Small falls and rope swings make this the perfect way to cool off in the hot Oklahoma sun," writes a camper. "The water is so clear, you can see the fish in it," notes another visitor.
What campers like
Secluded tent camping options: McGee Creek's Tent Hill area offers privacy away from busier RV sections. "The thing we really liked about this particular site was that there are only 4 tent sites here, so it's secluded and nice and quiet. There is very little traffic driving by as well."
Natural swimming areas: Blue River Campground provides access to Oklahoma's only natural aquifer. "This place is a gem and is the only natural aquifer left in Oklahoma," explains one camper. The river consists of "clear water flowing over a series of rock ledges with long clear pools in between."
Dark skies for stargazing: Burns Run West offers excellent night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "This is a great location with nice facilities. It is close enough for shopping and restaurants should that be needed and isolated enough to enjoy the outdoors," reports a visitor to Burns Run West Campground.
What you should know
Fishing license requirements: Blue River Campground requires all visitors to have an Oklahoma fishing license. "You need to have an OK fishing license to camp (or visit) here. If you do have the license, the campground is free but they do not provide any services or amenities."
Wildlife considerations: Watch for snakes while hiking near water. "Hiking is great but watch out for snakes on the ground along trails. I saw a few. There are many snakes such as rattlesnakes and copperheads."
Off-season closures: Many facilities reduce operations during winter. A camper at K River Campground noted, "The only reason I rated it 4 stars is that it's a work in progress. New cabins were being added and more trails were being cut while we were there."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Burns Run West has sandy beaches suitable for young swimmers. "Nice swimming area for the two young kids. Water hookups right next to campsite," reports one family. Another mentions, "The beaches were clean and had legit beach sand, which was very nice!"
Petting zoo activities: K River Campground offers animal interactions for children. "Off-road vehicle trails a petting zoo on site. Check the web site for activities, there may be live music or a large gathering scheduled."
Playground facilities: Buckhorn Campground offers recreational areas specifically designed for children. "We stayed at site 71 and it was just an amazing site. It's got the benefit of being the last site on the walk up trail so you get a lot of space to play around!"
Tips from RVers
Levelness considerations: Check pad specifications before booking. At Buckhorn Campground, one RVer warned, "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."
Pull-through availability: Choctaw RV Park offers spacious sites for larger rigs. "The sites are spacious pull through sites. There's a small pond that had Canadian geese swimming in it. The bathroom and shower area was immaculate and felt like a nicer hotel."
Hookup options: Lake Texoma State Park offers various hookup configurations. "The RV section has both full hookups and water/electric hookups. The prettiest sites are the ones without sewer. Most of the RV sites have nice, level concrete pads (except the one we choose... crushed granite)."
