The Ouachita National Forest surrounding Big Cedar, Oklahoma offers diverse camping options at elevations ranging from 500 to over 2,500 feet. The region's hilly terrain creates variable weather patterns, with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F while winter nights often drop below freezing. RV campers should note that cell service throughout the area varies significantly depending on elevation and proximity to towns.
What to do
Hiking and trail exploration: The Ouachita Trail passes directly through Winding Stair Campground, connecting campers to hundreds of miles of hiking paths. "A great set of volunteers keep this trail system in great shape! If interested in the entire trail, or even just an overnight there is a great guidebook out there by Tim Ernst. Super details with great mileage records and maps," notes one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer direct access to streams and small ponds. At Willows At Watson, visitors can fish right on the property. According to one camper, "You can fish too! Lots of fish in the ponds."
Mountain scenic drives: The Talimena Scenic Byway offers spectacular viewpoints accessible from several campgrounds. "Driving from Mena to Talihina along this stretch of highway is a treat when it comes to the spectacular views," reports one reviewer.
What campers like
Mountain views: Campers frequently mention the elevated vistas as a highlight of the region. "Willows at Watson is a destination RV spot if you love mountain views and tranquility. They have several sites on the hill, which is where we stayed, and you get to wake up to an incredible view before you head to Hochatown," shared one visitor.
Natural water features: The Cossatot River RV Park provides convenient access to one of the area's premier waterways. "If you're wanting to be near the Cossatot River and take your RV, this is a good pick. The park is clean, has standard RV hookups, and the highway isn't full of noisy traffic," notes a reviewer.
Wildlife viewing: The forest setting around many campgrounds creates opportunities for animal sightings. One camper mentioned, "My boyfriend and I took our first backpacking trip in the Ouachitas, and stayed at this campground. We absolutely LOVED it. The views are spectacular, lots of wildlife, all the wildflowers were blooming."
What you should know
Limited supplies: Most campgrounds lack onsite stores with extensive supplies. The KOA Mena/Ouachita National Forest Journey offers some basics: "There is ice machine on site, and basic necessities available at the office store." Most campers should plan to bring supplies from larger towns.
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "After driving 4 hours to one of our favorite campsites in this area we arrived to find it closed until May 2025. No explanation why. We have camped here in winter several times before," reported one disappointed visitor.
Variable amenities: Facilities differ dramatically between campgrounds. At Broken Bow Inn & RV Park, one camper noted: "Very very basic park. Sites are barely what you would call improved, all grass, maybe some gravel underneath." Meanwhile, other parks offer full hookups with more developed infrastructure.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: For families with younger children, some campgrounds offer extra security features. At William O. Darby RV Community, "The hosts were very accommodating and the military police patrolled the park," providing additional peace of mind for families.
Bathroom facilities: When camping with children, clean facilities matter. "The bathhouse was just like taking a shower at home!" noted one visitor to William O. Darby RV Community, making it suitable for families needing reliable facilities.
Space for activities: Some sites provide ample room for family games and activities. At Creekside RV Park, visitors mentioned: "Nice level lots with plenty of room behind to set up tables and games." This extra space allows children to play while remaining within sight.
Tips from RVers
Parking surface quality: RVers consistently comment on the variability of parking pads. At Creekside RV Park, one camper noted: "Easy access off the Highway. Nice level lots with plenty of room behind to set up tables and games."
Road conditions: Mountain terrain creates challenges for larger rigs. "The campground is very clean and well kept. Great location near Beavers Bend for hiking, boating, and fishing. Also near the Mountain Fork river for some kayaking!" reported a visitor who found accessibility good despite the mountainous setting.
Internet connectivity: For RVers who need to stay connected, wifi availability varies. At Willows At Watson, "The wifi worked pretty well too (it probably helped that there were only a few rigs on site)," noted one visitor, suggesting capacity affects performance.
