Tent camping options near Broken Arrow, Oklahoma range from free primitive sites to more developed state park facilities. Situated in the Ozark foothills region with elevations between 600-750 feet, the area features multiple Corps of Engineers lakes and water access points. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September, making spring and fall popular camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Verdigris River campground offers excellent fishing access with campers reporting significant catches. One visitor shared, "Spent many many MANY nights going night fishing with my family growing up and it was always so much fun!" Another camper caught "a 12 pound Drum" during their Verdigris River stay.
Hiking trails: Scenic paths around Oologah Lake provide nature exploration options for tent campers. A reviewer noted that "Oologah Lake is beautiful and the hiking trails are beautiful!" Trails range from easy shoreline walks to moderate forest paths with minimal elevation gain.
Water activities: Multiple lakes offer swimming and boating options. At Sunset Bay, campers have direct water access with tent sites near the shore. One camper mentioned the campground was "Very nice and clean" and "empty and quiet during our stay."
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Free camping at Jackson Bay Recreation Area allows stays up to 14 days with basic amenities. A camper mentioned it's "Amazing free campground, you can stay here for 14 days. No amenities, but it's well taken care of. Some spots have grills and picnic tables."
Waterfront views: Redbud Bay offers scenic lake vistas from tent sites. Reviewers specifically appreciate morning views, with one noting they enjoyed a "Beautiful view over the lake at sunrise" from their campsite.
Secluded options: Three Ponds Community provides peaceful, less-developed camping with A-frame structures. A solo camper described it as "Peaceful. Serene. Secluded" and mentioned "The land is beautiful and firewood is provided for a small fee."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent sites have minimal amenities. A Jackson Bay camper noted, "Plenty of space for tents everywhere, just little to no amenities." Pack accordingly with water and sanitation supplies.
Site spacing varies: At Sequoyah Bay State Park, sites are "at a nice angle, so you aren't facing right at the back of someone else's trailer." However, at Verdigris River, "the camping sites are very close together unless you get the very last one. It's near a wooded area."
Seasonal water access: Water systems at some campgrounds shut down during cold months. Three Ponds Community currently has "no running water due to colder temperatures. But once it warms water is on site."
Park security considerations: Some campgrounds have unmanned gates while others provide more security. A local observer notes about Sunset Bay: "The park is gated (un-maned) and access is not restricted... If you want to feel a bit more secure, I recommend the other camp!"
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: Sequoyah Bay offers cabin rentals for families seeking more comfort. A visitor reported "Stayed here in a cabin. Excellent time. Lots of things to do. Tennis, horse back riding. Even square dancing."
Activity planning: Verdigris River Park camping requires preparation for kids. While fishing is excellent, a camper warns the first campsites "are out in the open, by the roads, do a cartwheel and you are in the next camping spot..."
Time-of-year considerations: Weekday visits provide quieter experiences with fewer crowds. A local resident advised about Sunset Bay: "I would not recommend this as a family vacation site" and suggested that the experience "Depends on the Time of Year."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: At Jackson Bay Recreation Area, RVers should be aware of entrance conditions. A camper noted "The road leading to the campground is mostly gravel, but it's manageable."
Waterfront site challenges: Sequoyah Bay State Park offers waterfront sites that may require extra maneuvering. One RVer observed "We did see some sites near the water that looked tricky to get into, but you'd be right by the water, so that's the trade off, I guess."
Dump station access: Sequoyah Bay provides sanitary dump stations that RVers find convenient. A visitor mentioned "dump sites easy to manage" and added "We will be back!"
