Broken Bow's camping areas are nestled within the Ouachita Mountains in southeastern Oklahoma, where the terrain features pine-covered hills and clear waterways. The elevation ranges from 500 to 2,000 feet, creating multiple microclimates and diverse camping experiences. Campgrounds near Broken Bow typically remain open year-round, though seasonal water shutoffs may occur during winter months at certain sites.
What to do
Kayaking on Mountain Fork River: Mountain Fork Park offers easy river access for water activities. "There are many places to rent kayaks & go down the river. There are small waterfalls. Kid friendly. Compare companies because rental prices vary," notes Bridgette P. from Mountain Fork Park.
Wildlife watching: Many campsites provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Armadillo Circle — Beavers Bend State Park, campers often spot deer, especially in evening hours. The area around Stevens Gap features abundant wildlife, with one camper reporting, "We had a bald eagle perched across the cove from us for two days, when he wasn't flying up and down the channel."
Fly fishing: The Mountain Fork River provides good fly fishing opportunities throughout the year. Mickey B. from Beavers Bend shares that "even though I didn't catch anything my first time out fly fishing the tranquil scenery made up for it."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate direct water access from their sites. At Stevens Gap, Marlin B. notes, "Fish from your tent pad if you wish because most are within 15 feet from the water." Sites along the water tend to fill first during peak seasons.
Clean facilities: Newer campground sections offer updated amenities. Bonnie B. at Acorn Campground — Beavers Bend State Park reports, "Buckeye campground is a newly renovated loop. The sites on the water are absolutely beautiful! Easy set up. Plenty of room for our 5th wheel and truck. Level concrete site."
Fall colors: The area transforms in autumn with changing foliage. Jeff R. mentions, "Late October and the colors were gorgeous. We were so close, but missed peak fall colors by about a week or so." Weekends during fall color season require reservations well in advance.
What you should know
Cell service varies: Coverage can be spotty throughout the area. Susan L. from Acorn Campground notes, "No Verizon service except at the nature center. You can jump on their wifi, or if I walked to the pavilion behind the store I could get one bar on my phone."
Campsite accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds have tight turns and steep approaches. At Armadillo Campground - Beavers Bend State Park, Jason M. shares, "We found the one-way paths very tight, very curvy. I don't know how longer campers or bumper-pulls do it. Our site is in a tight turn and you must back up a steep grade."
Water releases: Campers near the dam should be aware of scheduled water releases. Susan L. mentions, "There is a water release siren that sounds occasionally and it is loud, but it doesn't happen frequently, or at night, at least not during my stay."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: The swimming areas provide safe places for children. Victoria D. from Beavers Bend State Park Campground shares, "The swimming area is river water so it's great in the hottest part of summer because it's nice and cool. We even rented a boat one year and it wasn't even super expensive."
Wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy seeing the local animals. Sherry S. notes, "Deer were everywhere in the evening," making wildlife spotting a popular evening activity for families.
Nature center visits: The nature center offers educational opportunities. Susan L. recommends, "The nature center is definitely worth a visit especially if you have kiddos, and the ranger here is fantastic!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RVers should research specific sites before booking. Aaron D. from Tiny Town Oklahoma advises, "The campground itself is very nice, but it is very winding with all the trees and spots slotted together. If you get a spot in the front near the road, there is a lot of through traffic."
Hookup variations: Different campground sections offer varying amenities. John R. explains, "We had a premium RV site on river in Acorn section that had a level concrete pad with water and 30/50 amp hook up. I definitely recommend this area for large rigs."
Dump station locations: Know where facilities are located before arrival. Aaron D. points out, "The dump site was directly across the street from the campground but you have to go down the road and either make a tight left turn or go further down and turn around."
