Kaw Lake recreation area offers pet-friendly camping options around Burbank, Oklahoma, with sites at elevations between 750-850 feet. The lake encompasses 38 miles of shoreline with multiple campgrounds situated in rolling prairie and wooded areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-95°F with frequent afternoon breezes across the open water.
What to do
Bird watching at McFadden Cove: This campground provides excellent shoreline access for wildlife viewing. "Right down the way is a campground with maybe 16 RV spots. They are kind of close together camp spot 9 and 11 are the closest to the water," notes Julie H., making these prime spots for observing waterfowl.
Fishing for striped bass: The Osage Cove - Kaw Lake area offers productive fishing opportunities. Nate C. shares that "Kaw Lake dam is a short drive from the dam and can be an excellent striped bass or hybrid striped bass fishing area." Morning and evening hours typically yield the best results.
Hike the Eagle View Trail: This moderate difficulty trail starts from Osage Cove. "Osage cove also includes the southern trailhead for the Eagle View Trail," mentions Nate C., with the full loop extending approximately 2-3 miles with lake views throughout.
What campers like
Clean, maintained sites: Campers frequently mention the upkeep at Sandy Park — Kaw Lake. Overland 1. notes, "This campground is very clean and well maintained. Excellent shade from all the trees and the sites are decent size." Most sites include standard amenities like water and electric hookups.
Lake access from campsites: Many visitors appreciate direct water access. At McFadden Cove, Deanna S. reports, "The campground seems to have lots of room. It's on the water and beautiful although on the site Recreation.gov, it says you cannot reserve a spot." First-come, first-served sites cost around $18 per night with electric and water.
Quiet atmosphere: Camping areas around Kaw Lake generally provide peaceful settings. Bob M., who stayed at Coon Creek Cove, shares: "We only stopped for a night, but it definitely impressed. Large sites, not too close together. Quiet place, fisherman's delight I bet."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Facility quality differs between campgrounds. Josh G. at Osage Cove - Kaw Lake reports, "Bathrooms are ok, but not great," while Monte C. at Coon Creek notes, "We used the shower house since they don't have full sewer hook up. It was kept clean and you could see a crew once a day cleaning the bathroom/shower."
Water hookup locations: Not all sites have convenient water access. Brittany G. mentions, "There is no water hookup, unless you have a long hose & are close to any of the bathrooms." Bring extension hoses of at least 50 feet when camping at Osage Cove.
Security presence: Rangers actively patrol some campgrounds. Monte C. appreciated that at Coon Creek Cove, "the Park Ranger was present and making rounds frequently," providing added security and enforcement of campground rules.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Osage Hills State Park Campground offers recreational facilities for children. Dana H. notes it has "two playgrounds, a seasonal pool, a tennis court with volleyball in the day use area," making it ideal for families with children of different ages.
Swimming options: Several locations offer swimming for kids and pets. Pamela B. mentions that Osage Hills has "a small private lake with kayaks (Lookout Lake), many hiking trails, a swimming pool, and playground," providing multiple water recreation options.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area offers chances to spot various animals. Pamela B. shares that at Osage Hills, "We saw white tail deer, armadillo, & wild Turkey," making it an educational experience for children interested in nature.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: When seeking pet-friendly camping near Burbank, Oklahoma, consider site topography. At The Sandbur RV Park, John L. notes they have "Great size lots and lots of room for rv, vehicle and camp/fire area!" with "Nice little hills for snow sledding!" showing the varied terrain.
Utility connections: RV sites typically offer water and electric, with fewer full-hookup options. Jim H. at Sarge Creek Campground shares, "Water and electricity available but didn't use this trip," indicating hookups are optional depending on your needs.
Dump station locations: Most campgrounds provide sanitary dump stations, though not at individual sites. For those traveling with pets, having accessible waste facilities becomes especially important. Check campground maps upon arrival as dump stations are typically located near entrance areas.
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