Bell Cow Lake is the primary equestrian camping destination near Bristow, Oklahoma, located about 45 miles from town. The surrounding area features a mix of wooded terrain and open prairies with elevations ranging from 700 to 900 feet above sea level. Camping options include facilities for both horse enthusiasts and regular campers with water levels typically highest in spring and early summer.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Access miles of dedicated equestrian paths at Sheppard Point, where campers note "there are some Really nice trails for hiking or horseback riding." The trails wind through wooded areas and along waterways with varying terrain suitable for different skill levels.
Swimming and water activities: Cool off at Lake Carl Blackwell where the water provides relief during hot Oklahoma summers. One visitor mentioned, "I was practically surrounded by water. Deer, beavers, armadillo, birds! There are many different campground areas, I stayed in Pine Grove."
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at smaller lakes like Wewoka where jet skiing is also popular. The fishing experience varies by season with spring typically offering the best catches. "It has a small RV campground and some primitive campsites along waters edge. It is always active with jet skiing," notes one camper.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many visitors appreciate the well-maintained grounds at Stroud Municipal Lake, where one camper noted, "It is a nice little campground that has R.V. camping and tent camping. We like camping here because the campsite is next to the shore."
Peaceful atmosphere: Weekday visits often mean fewer crowds and more tranquility. "Stopped over on our way from Texas to Missouri. Needed electricity since it was 98 outside with 60% humidity. This place is fairly small and looks like used mostly by locals...it was really quiet," reports a visitor to Stroud Municipal Lake.
Waterfront camping: Direct lake access is a highlight at many sites around Sportsmans Lake, where a camper shared, "Nice small lake. Older bathrooms but kept clean. Lots of fishing boat traffic. Lake Ranger is very friendly and helpful. Atmosphere of being far away from town but 10 minutes get you to groceries."
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Weather impacts facilities and accessibility, particularly after rain. At Sheppard Point, a camper observed, "This place was further off the beaten path than expected and was a beautiful location. I camped in late November so water was shut off but electric worked well."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Wewoka Lake, one camper noted, "Nice lake it is a smaller lake but still has some nice RV hookups as well as primitive camping it has toilets and showers they are so so."
Campsite variability: Site levelness and quality differ substantially even within the same campground. One camper at Sheppard Point reported, "My RV spot is so unlevel it's almost unusable. Front to back there is 2 feet in elevation difference and a foot from side to side."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Several lakes offer designated swimming areas with sandy bottoms. A visitor to Sheppard Point shared, "The lake has a great swimming beach area - this seems to be a fishing lake, only a few jet skis were out besides fishing boats. Sandy bottom lake near swim beach."
Playground access: Jellystone Park and other facilities offer child-friendly amenities. One camper noted, "Had a great time here. Spots are relatively spacious and a good amount of shade for most spots. Definitely the nicest Jellystone I've been to."
Budget considerations: Costs vary widely between horse campgrounds near Bristow. Sportsmans Lake offers affordable options, with a camper explaining, "This campground was very quiet and beautiful. The grounds are neat and well cared for. There are about 10 reservable sites with full hookups. Several sites with water and electric."
Tips from RVers
Hookup reliability: Electrical service quality varies between and within campgrounds. At Sheppard Point, a camper warned, "The power pedestal, from the 120v 20amp receptacle, is putting out 134v. The neighboring spot's pedestal is putting out 103v."
Arrival timing: For some campgrounds, late arrival creates access issues. One Sportsmans Lake visitor advised, "The campgrounds are actually located on the southwest side of the lake in cove 1 and cove 3, make sure you don't arrive after 10pm as you can then only access cove 2 and cove 4."
Site selection strategy: Choose based on shade and proximity to amenities. At Bell Cow Lake Area B, a visitor suggested, "Several shady spots. Easy water access. This area is quieter and less popular than area 'C', but it is a little bit more rustic."
