Camping near Braggs, Oklahoma offers outdoor recreation in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. The area sits at elevations ranging from 500 to 1,200 feet with dense oak-hickory forests surrounding Lake Tenkiller and the Illinois River watershed. Summer temperatures typically reach into the 90s with high humidity, making water activities particularly popular during peak camping season.
What to do
Scuba diving at Lake Tenkiller: Lake Tenkiller offers clear water diving opportunities with underwater attractions including a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter and two boats. As one camper at Chicken Creek Campground noted, "Lake Tenkiller is an amazing location to scuba dive. It's waters are clear and cool from a distance of 8 to 28 feet."
Trout fishing below dam: The trout stream below Lake Tenkiller dam is one of only two year-round trout fisheries in Oklahoma. Anglers at Taylor Ferry Campground report good catches. "Great place to camp and boat. Good fishing spots as well," shares one visitor.
Hiking at Robbers Cave: Visitors can explore the historic cave hideout on rugged trails. A camper warns, "The hiking trail to the cave is steep and rocky with big drop-offs, so be careful with small children. It is a ¾ of a mile trail that my son absolutely loved."
Miniature golf and water activities: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly activities beyond hiking. "My son also got to play miniature golf for the first time at the course located next to the pool. One word of warning the golf course is very dated with carpet ripped or completely missing in spots."
What campers like
Lake access for fishing: Many campers appreciate direct water access for fishing without traveling from their site. One Robbers Cave State Park visitor shared, "Had a great time fishing at our campsite. Were the only ones at this campground. You'll have to find this treasure spot."
Shaded campsites: The mature forest provides welcome relief from summer heat. A camper at Chicken Creek noted, "Great camp ground, plenty of shady spots. Would have given 5 stars, but they are limited on sites with 50amps."
Ranger-led activities: State parks in the area often provide scheduled events throughout the week. "The Oklahoma Park staff were very knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to answer any of my questions. Also when you get to camp they will give you a schedule of all the events that are going on throughout the week."
Swimming options: Both natural lake swimming and pool facilities are available. "We spent two afternoons swimming in Lake Carlton. The designated swim area has a very rocky drop-off for an entrance, but once out it was very nice swimming."
What you should know
Horse campgrounds near Braggs, Oklahoma: While several campgrounds allow horses on trails, dedicated equestrian facilities are limited. One camper at Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA notes, "We chose this campground for the Tiny House rental for our Daughter and her husband & kids. We stayed in an RV site, enjoyed the pool, bounce pad & basketball."
Bathroom conditions vary greatly: Facilities range from modern to very rustic across campgrounds. One visitor reported, "Vault toilet was buggy enough that the kids wouldn't use it. Our site had good water access. Beautiful lake. I'd come back."
Limited high-amperage electricity: Many campgrounds have restricted numbers of 50-amp sites. "Only seven 50 amp spots and no sewer sites but the campground is great. Store outside gate. Gates going in locked at 10:00 p.m. and open at 6:00 a.m."
Seasonal operations: Most equestrian and camping areas have limited seasons. "Peak Season April 01, 2021- September 30, 2021. First-come, First-served October 01, 2021- November 30, 2021."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose campgrounds with family amenities for kids' entertainment. A visitor at Tulsa NE-Will Rogers Downs KOA mentioned, "The playground is right next to a pond with no fence," highlighting the need for supervision.
Swimming safety: Lake swimming areas have natural hazards to consider. "The designated swim area has a very rocky drop-off for an entrance, but once out it was very nice swimming. There is a concrete pier that is located along the swim ropes that you can climb up and jump off of."
Trail difficulty ratings: Many trails are more challenging than posted. "Oklahoma state park trails are poorly marked, more challenging than advertised, and not appropriate for certain types of activities. Generally when in Oklahoma I prepare for the worst to avoid a negative experience."
Budget for activities: Many park activities require additional fees. "We did a hayride that lead us through the park to the stables where there is a petting zoo, we saw the second largest pine tree in Oklahoma, and drank water from an artesian well. Just make sure you have cash because each item does cost money."
Tips from RVers
Gate timing awareness: Some campgrounds restrict after-hours access. At Chicken Creek, "Gates going in locked at 10:00 p.m. and open at 6:00 a.m," which affects late arrivals or early departures.
Limited sewer hookups: Few campgrounds offer full hookups. "The campground is great except no sewer connections. The boat ramp is fantastic, great views of the lake and plenty of trees most sites are shaded."
Dump station locations: Plan for waste management at designated facilities. A Little Turtle RV & Storage visitor noted, "The camp itself was clean and the hooks ups were pretty easy," but mentioned limited amenities.
Cell service varies: Coverage can be spotty in mountain areas. "Excellent Verizon service," reported one camper, but reception varies by location and carrier throughout the region.
