Lake Eufaula forms the center of camping opportunities near Checotah, Oklahoma, covering 102,000 acres with 600 miles of shoreline at an elevation of 585 feet. Camping options range from established campgrounds with full hookups to primitive sites, with most locations experiencing summer temperatures averaging 91°F in July and August. Water levels can fluctuate significantly, affecting beach access and boat ramp usability.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Multiple campsites offer direct fishing access at Brooken Cove Campground. A camper noted, "Fish constantly flopping in and out of the water, missed out on not bringing a permit and pole!" Swimming areas with shallow water make this location family-friendly.
Basketball and playground activities: Onapa RV Park & Campground provides on-site recreation options. According to a visitor, "They have a basketball court and a cool looking playground for kids." Located 4 miles south of I-40, this campground offers a quieter alternative to lakeside options.
Seasonal water recreation: Winter visitors find different activities than summer campers. During colder months (November-February), hiking trails become more accessible while the swimming areas empty. As one camper at Dogwood Campground described their December visit: "Once the sun went down we noticed a massive Christmas lighting display up near the RV portion. This made the trip!"
What campers like
Shade coverage: Trees provide essential relief from Oklahoma summer heat at Deep Fork Campground. A camper described their experience: "Campsites are really great with trees, concrete pads, hook-ups and beautiful scenery." Concrete pads help maintain level camping surfaces after heavy rains.
Privacy between sites: Campsite spacing varies significantly between campgrounds and loops. A camper at Porum Landing appreciated that it was "Very quiet and peaceful" with "plenty of room to park your boat right next to your camper." Waterfront sites typically offer more seclusion.
Clean bathhouses: Several campgrounds maintain air-conditioned facilities, essential during hot weather. A visitor to Dogwood Campground shared, "Literally best bathrooms I've ever encountered in a park. Very ADA accessible, AIR CONDITIONED TOILETS?!, showers and toilets were single stalls, clean, roomy and had everything you need."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds require advance booking. At Gentry Creek Landing, one camper warned, "The attendant would not let me make a quick reservation on my phone, even when I mentioned that it looked like plenty of spots were available." Another visitor had a different experience: "I was able to get in even though I didn't make a reservation."
Campground gate hours: Security gates restrict after-hours access at many locations. Belle Starr Park gates open at 6 am and close at 10 pm with tire spikes preventing reentry. Plan accordingly when visiting nearby towns for supplies or dining.
Water clarity: Lake Eufaula's water can appear muddy after rainfall. A visitor described the lake as "muddy and not very appealing" despite well-maintained grounds. This water clarity affects swimming enjoyment but doesn't typically impact fishing success.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Request sites either near or far from playgrounds based on your preferences. At Greenleaf State Park Campground, a visitor advised, "You might want to be close if you have kids and far from it if you don't." The park offers multiple camping loops with varying amenities.
Splash pad access: Greenleaf State Park features a popular water feature for children. According to one camper, "The absolute best part of this park is the splash pad. It was the best splash pad we've been too. They had a cool slide and we had a blast."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to see local wildlife. A visitor to Greenleaf described their experience: "Animals! Turtles, deer that like to be petted, frogs croaking at night, owls talking, beavers splashing in the lake and turkeys eating snakes!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many pads require additional adjustment for RVs. At Brooken Cove, a camper with a large fifth wheel noted, "We couldn't back all the way up because the tree was too low, but the spot was long enough where it wasn't an issue." Pack leveling blocks for uneven sites.
Hookup positioning: Water spigots often serve multiple sites and may require extra hose length. At Deep Fork Campground, one RVer noted needing an adapter for the 30-amp connection, so bring multiple electrical adapters and extension cords.
Highway noise considerations: Sites near I-40 experience traffic noise, particularly at KOA Campground Checotah. A reviewer mentioned: "Very noisy from highway traffic for tent campers." Request sites further from the highway if noise sensitivity is a concern.
