Top Tent Camping near Checotah, OK
Searching for a tent camping spot near Checotah? The Dyrt is an easy way to find tent camping spots near Checotah. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Checotah, Oklahoma's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites Near Checotah, OK (20)
1. Eagles Point — Tenkiller State Park
3 Reviews•2 Photos•5 SavesTenkiller State Park is known as Oklahoma's “heaven in the hills.” The sparkling blue waters of Lake Tenkiller offer water enthusiasts an abundance of recreational opportunities between 130 miles of shoreline and 13,000 surface acres. The park’s plentiful amenities make it a favorite destination for all ages.
Tenkiller State Park in Vian is a haven for all water sports including water skiing, fishing, boating, tubing and scuba diving. Outdoor facilities include a volleyball court, basketball court, two playground areas, four group picnic pavilions and 172 picnic tables. An outdoor swimming pool is available seasonally at the park and includes a water slide and splash pad. Additional amenities include a community building, three hiking trails and the Driftwood Nature Center.
Lake Tenkiller is considered one of the best places in the state for scuba diving, as its waters are clear from eight to 28 feet. Tenkiller Scuba Park is a diver's dream, with a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter and two boats to explore underwater. In some areas of the lake, divers can see the remains of homesteads and artifacts left behind from before the lake was formed. The Fisherman's Point Area provides access to a swim beach, dive park, and boat ramp. The lake's underwater terrain ranges from mildly sloping hills to rock cliffs, and the water goes up to 160 feet deep in places. With an Oklahoma fishing license, divers can try their luck at spear fishing for non-game fish. Two diving pro shops, Gene's Aqua Pro and Nautical Adventures, are located on the lake and offer training, certification and equipment rental.
Tenkiller State Park offers RV and tent sites scattered between 10 campgrounds. Online reservations must be made for the RV and tent campsites. Primitive campgrounds include Bluff View, Eagle Point, and Hickory Flats with Day use area's at Fisherman's Point, Goose Neck Bend North and South . RV campgrounds with 30-amp electric and water hookups include Blue Jay Knob and Flying Squirrel. The Shady Grove and Fox Squirrel campgrounds both offer full hookups, with 50-amp electric service. A total of seven comfort stations with restrooms and showers are available in the park, and there are two on-site waste dump stations.
In addition to the tent and RV campgrounds, Tenkiller State Park guests may choose from 38 cabins, ranging from one to three-bedroom styles. All the cabins, except for the three-bedroom models, are duplexes. Cabins are equipped for the maximum number of guests with linens, full kitchens, heat, air conditioning and satellite television. In addition, some cabins are pet friendly. There are a total of 22 one-bedroom cabins, 14 two-bedroom cabins and two three-bedroom cabin.
Tenkiller State Park features two multi-use trails and one nature trail. The Tenkiller Multi-Use Trail is a handicap accessible paved trail 1.5 miles in length. Also located on-site, the Pine Cove Marina offers fuel, snacks and boat rentals, as well as the floating Clearwater Café.
Tenkiller State Park also has The Driftwood Nature Center and a full time Naturalist on staff. There are daily activities Memorial Day through Labor Day. Through the winter months weekend events and activities are planned. To see what is happening at The Driftwood Nature Center call 918-489-5641 or email: leann.bunn@travelok.com
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Toilets
2. Hickory Flats — Tenkiller State Park
2 Reviews•11 Photos•5 SavesTenkiller State Park is known as Oklahoma's “heaven in the hills.” The sparkling blue waters of Lake Tenkiller offer water enthusiasts an abundance of recreational opportunities between 130 miles of shoreline and 13,000 surface acres. The park’s plentiful amenities make it a favorite destination for all ages.
Tenkiller State Park in Vian is a haven for all water sports including water skiing, fishing, boating, tubing and scuba diving. Outdoor facilities include a volleyball court, basketball court, two playground areas, four group picnic pavilions and 172 picnic tables. An outdoor swimming pool is available seasonally at the park and includes a water slide and splash pad. Additional amenities include a community building, three hiking trails and the Driftwood Nature Center.
Lake Tenkiller is considered one of the best places in the state for scuba diving, as its waters are clear from eight to 28 feet. Tenkiller Scuba Park is a diver's dream, with a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter and two boats to explore underwater. In some areas of the lake, divers can see the remains of homesteads and artifacts left behind from before the lake was formed. The Fisherman's Point Area provides access to a swim beach, dive park, and boat ramp. The lake's underwater terrain ranges from mildly sloping hills to rock cliffs, and the water goes up to 160 feet deep in places. With an Oklahoma fishing license, divers can try their luck at spear fishing for non-game fish. Two diving pro shops, Gene's Aqua Pro and Nautical Adventures, are located on the lake and offer training, certification and equipment rental.
Tenkiller State Park offers RV and tent sites scattered between 10 campgrounds. Online reservations must be made for the RV and tent campsites. Primitive campgrounds include Bluff View, Eagle Point, and Hickory Flats with Day use area's at Fisherman's Point, Goose Neck Bend North and South . RV campgrounds with 30-amp electric and water hookups include Blue Jay Knob and Flying Squirrel. The Shady Grove and Fox Squirrel campgrounds both offer full hookups, with 50-amp electric service. A total of seven comfort stations with restrooms and showers are available in the park, and there are two on-site waste dump stations.
In addition to the tent and RV campgrounds, Tenkiller State Park guests may choose from 38 cabins, ranging from one to three-bedroom styles. All the cabins, except for the three-bedroom models, are duplexes. Cabins are equipped for the maximum number of guests with linens, full kitchens, heat, air conditioning and satellite television. In addition, some cabins are pet friendly. There are a total of 22 one-bedroom cabins, 14 two-bedroom cabins and two three-bedroom cabin.
Tenkiller State Park features two multi-use trails and one nature trail. The Tenkiller Multi-Use Trail is a handicap accessible paved trail 1.5 miles in length. Also located on-site, the Pine Cove Marina offers fuel, snacks and boat rentals, as well as the floating Clearwater Café.
Tenkiller State Park also has The Driftwood Nature Center and a full time Naturalist on staff. There are daily activities Memorial Day through Labor Day. Through the winter months weekend events and activities are planned. To see what is happening at The Driftwood Nature Center call 918-489-5641 or email: leann.bunn@travelok.com
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Toilets
3. Gates Nature Preserve
1 Review•5 SavesCamp at an animal lovers paradise! Gates Nature Preserve allows you to pitch your tent beside a petting zoo. Meet exotic reptiles and farm animals while spending a night in the forest of Eastern Oklahoma. When you're not playing with animals, Gates Nature Preserve is an outlet to the outdoors! This campsite sits beside the Tenkiller Ferry Lake which is great for water sports and only 5 miles from Tenkiller State Park. It is also less than 7 miles from Greenleaf state park which gives you access to the Arkansas River, Webber Falls Reservoir and Greenleaf Lake. This campsite is equipped with picnic tables, a fire pit, and a bathhouse with potable water and showers. Bring your own tent, food, and firewood.
- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Trash
- Picnic Table
$25 / night
4. Jackson Bay Recreation Area
3 Reviews•15 Photos•102 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
5. Sequoyah Bay State Park
2 Reviews•13 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
8. Lake McAlester
1 Review•1 Photo•2 Saves- Tents
- Toilets
10. Horseshoe Bend Primitive Public Use Area
2 Reviews•18 Photos•78 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
Showing results 1-10 of 20 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews In Checotah
436 Reviews of 20 Checotah Campgrounds
George B.
Scout
Snake Creek
Great place to stay.
We really enjoyed this campground. Lots of room to roam, Plenty of access to the water for boats (multiple ramps) or wading/swimming. Plenty of sites to choose from some shaded, some by the water. A few full hookups but not many. Most spots are just electric and water. Clean restrooms/showers. One newer area of the campground has new private shower rooms. We have been back a couple of times with all the kids and grandkids. Overall a nice corp of engineers park.
Andrew R.Scout
Applegate Cove Campground
Tucked away spot that's almost heaven
I sort of threw darts at a board to where I would be camping next, and Applegate Cove was my destination this time. The campground is fairly small, but each lot is well maintained. The ground was a bit hard to drive tent stakes into, but I'm attributing that to the weather and season until I visit again and disprove that. There's a small walking loop down to the Arkansas river which left me a gorgeous view of the sunset, unfortunately I also visited during a fishing competition which brought quite a few people, making it a bit of a noisy area during the day as they were using the campground boat slip and dock to cast off from. You can also hear river barges during all hours, though personally I slept through all of the supposed noise. My only real complaint was that one of the bathrooms was in considerably worse condition than the other and you could smell it up to twenty feet away, which after learning I took the extra minute to walk to the nicer one. The shower was good and hot, no complaints there. All in all, I'm pretty happy with how my stay went, and there's very little I disliked about the campgrounds.
- FFrancis W.
Traveler
Deep Fork Campground — Lake Eufula State Park
Nice
Very nice camping ground. A little old. Spaces were roomy. Tent spaces under trees, a little unkept. Paid $40 for an RV spot which worked out well. Toilets and showers ok, not so clean.
Todd R.
Guide
Chicken Creek
Chicken Creek
Great camp ground, pleanty of shady spots. Would have given 5 stars, but they are limited on sites with 50amps. Showers were in rough shape as well
Noel L.GuideApplegate Cove Campground
Nice campground
Older Park. Renovations are being done... Pads, 10 ft picnic tables, playground... Right off the lake with awesome scenery. Couple who manages the place is really nice and helpful. Would stop here again.
- Candy S.Scout
Bluff View
Bluff view
It's a beautiful spot surrounded by big rocks. The only complaint is the restrooms are quite dirty, and the shower doesn't have cold water.
Craig E.Guide
Dogwood Drive - Lake Eufaula State Park
Shady and Secluded
Site 95 in Dogwood loop of Lake Eufala is awesome. Only 1 other RV site close by. Rest of campers are half mile away. Unless you need the bathouse regularly it's the perfect spot. Plenty of trees, squirrels, birds, and a few deer. Site is paved but not quite level. It's listed as premium site because of patio and wider driveway. Nearly all others are super narrow with 4-5 inch drop off on either side. I would have been rolling my ankle constantly. You're pretty close to entrance of this campground so road noise could be a problem during peak season. Short drive to lake or you can take one of the trails. Full Hookups were dirty but in good working order.
- TTim Z.Traveler
Turkey Flat Campground in Arrowhead State Park
Quiet with Nature
Spacious and paved pads with nature all around. Bathrooms were clean and showers excellent. This place is a real cost performer for outdoor activities!
- LLogan D.Traveler
Brushy Lake State Park
Quaint and Quiet
21 RV spots available around a small, family lake. Water and electric hook ups and clean dump station. Small park/play area and two large pavilions. Hiking trail located at the back of the park. Lake is great for fishing and kayaking. Not a major boating or water sport lake. First come first serve spots. Camp host is helpful and friendly. Calm and quiet stay
Frank S.Traveler
Onapa RV Park & Campground
Quiet and peaceful
Wife and I stayed here for 5 nights, the owners were very friendly and helpful. The campground is close to Checotah and several boat ramps for lake access. We will definitely stay here again.
Gary E.Scout
Okemah Lake
Not very pleasant.
Stayed the night prior to a bass tournament. I was surprised to see weeds overgrown in the camp areas, the shoreline is covered in tall weeds. The fire rings were trashed and grill mostly unusable. Loud trucks and cars made it very noisy. Evidently there isn’t a speed limit or anyone out there enforcing any laws. I will return to fish but it’s not worth camping at. Cell service is very unreliable.
Jade S.ScoutCrowder Point Family Campground
Said frew on the app
Said free on the app, in which u paid for. I show up to the FREE campground and boom they want me to pay 25. When it comes up as free which is false advertising. Which is illegal.
Cameron L.Traveler
Brooken Cove Campground
Great View
Site 51 was the best view. Long but narrow paved spot. 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. The water spicket was about 80 ft away, and unfortunately we didn't have an adapter for the 30 amp. Otherwise this was a great stay with a beautiful sunset over the water. Be mindful of a couple trees overhanging the way in, but we were able to get through without issue hitting any. We have a 13.5 ft tall and 45 ft long fifth wheel. Mosquitoes were pretty bad so be prepared.
Jeanette W.Guide
Gentry Creek Landing
On Top of the HIll
Our campsite, #33, was perched on top of a hill, accessible by a fairly long, steep incline. The site is not level and would be appropriate only for shorter RVs. The site's position made it one of the more isolated campsites so it was more private than others. Site #33 does not have its own water source. It shares one water spigot with 2 other sites.
Eufaula Lake was muddy and not very appealing. The camp grounds were well-maintained and the camp host was friendly.
- LLakin S.Scout
Okemah Lake
Abandoned
This once cool camping lake looks unattractive and not taking care of of. Weeds in campgrounds, fire pits full of trash and grills all broken. There is no longer any personnel or workers living in the area. You are basically on your own with no Patrols or Law Enforcement. Loud people kept us up all night and we left early. Go elsewhere. Not family friendly anymore.
- EElizabeth B.Guide
Petit Bay - Tenkiller Ferry Lake
My kids loved it!
First of all this COE stays open all year We had lake access kind neighbors that our kids made friends with two parks one right across from our site and another up by the group showers (which has tons of pokers so we didn’t play there) we caught catfish off the bank and bolt huge fires beautiful foggy mornings and we watched all the leaves change colours every clear night we saw shooting stars it was great there is a little pub across the street from the COE only open on the weekends I believe I also suggest not going to Big Reds for breakfast there are better places to eat
Amy P.Scout
Marval Family Camping Resort
Very disapointed
We had an absolutely wonderful first trip to Marval. However, we won the cabin decorating contest during the Halloween festivities this year and forgot to pick up our certicate for a two night stay in a deluxe cabin. We called when we were only one hour away and were reassured they would keep this for us and we could call to book our next stay at Marval. I called today to do so and was told by the general manager Stacy that I was given the wrong information by her staff and that maybe had I called within a week to rebook or turned around to get the paper certificate this would have been honored. I am extremely disappointed in this response when I was reassured that we did not need to turn around to get the certificate. I am also very disappointed in the way I was dismissed on the phone and told there was nothing she could do to make this right.
- KKatharina D.Traveler
Jackson Bay Recreation Area
Beautiful spot to camp for free
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.The road leading to the campground is mostly gravel, but it's manageable. Beautiful view over the lake at sunrise!
Joel R.
Legend
Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA
Many improvements since last time
This was our second stop at the KOA in Fort Smith AR. They have many improvements since out last stay. The campground is convenient to I-40. It’s far enough away to not have traffic noise. The sites are level, there is a pool, Propane, fishing pond, and camp store. Also hiking trails. Also some tent sites. There is a whole new section for Class A and large 5th wheel campers now. The are located behind a highway department facility, and last visit the smell of the treated power line poles was overwhelming. No problem this time. This is one of the few campgrounds I’ve been to that have a storm shelter!
- EElizabeth B.Guide
Taylor Ferry
Peaceful & beautiful
We stayed here for two weeks we stayed on the north end which has a private shower house. We caught some catfish right off the rock peer. It is close to Hwy 51 but you really can’t tell. Gate keepers were wonderful and very helpful I saw some old oyster mushrooms all over the place possibly some lions mane 💓 I had a great time. Bait and a Dollar General were right down the road. The only thing is we were told that the lake would be low for the next two years for reconstruction of the dam. Because of the low water you can walk very far into the water from where we we’re staying. The north side we were on will close for the winter soon. I do advise having a water filter system on your rig we Will totally be returning anytime of year because this COE stays open all year. Two dump stations!
- Craig E.Guide
Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA
First KOA experience!
We didn't know what to expect. This place has absolutely everything you could need. Full Hookups, level sites (mostly gravel but level), shop with souvenirs and RV gadgets. The office also has a gameroom, pantry, and propane. We didn't get to use the playground area this visit as pool and hot tub were closed for the year. They also have normal cabin rental and tiny home rentals that were perfectly positioned around campground and fishing pond. My only complaint would be that the sites are really compact. Plenty of room for your RV but so close that you can hear and smell your neighbors. Nearby Walmart and restaurants were handy.
J. O.Guide
Gore Landing
Peaceful and Clean
Peaceful and a little off the rdwy, but can still hear traffic sounds. Lots of shade, close to water. There are no working bathrooms, only 2 porta-potties that need to be cleaned out. They did allow car camping along with the tents and RVs.
- Craig E.Guide
COE Robert S Kerr Applegate Cove
Peaceful place
Stayed for a few days in level site(6). Water was to be shared with neighbor site, so why am I paying full price. Pretty stupid. Dump station is quarter of mile outside of campground. Main bathhouse is vented and clean. Lots of mature trees made for a great stay. Kerr lake was amazingly beautiful. Didn't get to fish this time but will be back. Booked online so I couldn't change site. There are a few that don't share water and are level. Probably will do first come first serve next time.
- PPenny T.Guide
Strayhorn Landing - Tenkiller Ferry Lake
Gorgeous Park
This park has a swimming hole, playground, canoeing, boat ramps, 2 bath houses, gorgeous lake views, plenty tent, and RV lots. $18-$20 per night, depending on your site for tents. $20-50 for RV depending on lot. There's no laundry facility nor fire wood provided but has everything else.
- SSteffanye U.Traveler
Porum Landing - Eufaula Lake
Nice on the water campground
Booked a shaded campsite in the middle of the campground. Campsite was great, plenty of room to park your boat right next to your camper. Bathrooms are old, but clean. There are no hooks on the doors or walls, so bring a magnetic or over the door hook to hang your stuff on. Very quiet and peaceful.
- Craig E.Guide
Bluff Landing
Quiet, fishable, secluded
Peaceful area outside of Tulsa metro on the outskirts of Broken Arrow near Coweta. 25min drive into Tulsa. 10min drive to Walmart and fast food. Checkout Smokies BBQ nearby for great food. Sites were pretty level using gravel. A few were completely shaded but most were barely shaded. Shoreline really close to campsites with boatdock and fishable shoreline. Restrooms were clean but very hot. Showers available but did not use. Fire ring, picnic tables and lantern hooks available. Dump station is clean and easily manageable. Grass needed to mowed especially since several snakes were seen. Whole area was pretty clean and peaceful.
- aashleyGuide
Dogwood Drive - Lake Eufaula State Park
Our trip in July 2023
This state park was great. We were on dogwood site 66. The shade was great. The bathrooms were clean and had AC! There was a trail to the water. So fun there. The only thing is the pole light was right next to us so we had a spot light. Only down fall. Also there is laundry and a little park. The other part of the park was a couple min drive was another beach and park it was so nice and fun. The park office has ice!
Guide to Checotah
Camping near Checotah, Oklahoma, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic views to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.
What to do:
- Hiking: Explore the trails at Robbers Cave State Park. One visitor mentioned, “Lots of hiking trails around and seems pretty quiet,” making it a great spot for nature lovers.
- Fishing and Boating: At Sequoyah Bay State Park, you can enjoy fishing and boating on Ft. Gibson Lake. A reviewer noted, “This state park offers fishing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and a splash pad to cool off at!”
- Disc Golf: If you enjoy disc golf, check out Cherokee Landing State Park. One camper shared, “It has a disc golf course with tire baskets and they rent discs at the camp office.”
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the parks. A visitor at Greenleaf State Park said, “Clean park, lots of activities, shade galore.”
- Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of the staff. At Keystone State Park, one camper mentioned, “Great clean and modern toilets and showers with heating and air near the marina.”
- Scenic Views: The natural beauty of the area is a big draw. A reviewer at Talimena State Park noted, “I love this state park and will come back to stay longer! Super nice trails, clean showers, big spaces.”
What you should know:
- Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can be noisy. A camper at Talimena State Park mentioned, “Right on the highway bringing road noise.”
- Limited Amenities: Not all parks have full amenities. A visitor at Heyburn Park pointed out, “The park didn’t have a map so we weren’t sure where the site was.”
- Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds, like Eagle Bluff Resort, are only open from April to October. Be sure to check the season before planning your trip.
Tips for camping with families:
- Splash Pads and Playgrounds: Look for parks with family-friendly features. Greenleaf State Park has a splash pad that kids love. One grandparent shared, “On-premises splash park with waterslide was great for the grandkids.”
- Cabin Rentals: If tent camping isn’t your style, consider renting a cabin. A visitor at Eagle Bluff Resort said, “The cabin was clean and well-maintained.”
- Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Cherokee Landing State Park mentioned, “Beautiful views, amazing if you like to fish or want to go out on the boat.”
Tips from RVers:
- Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA noted, “Great gravel and concrete pads.”
- Be Prepared for Close Quarters: Some sites can be compact. One camper mentioned, “The sites are really compact... you can hear and smell your neighbors.”
- Explore Nearby Amenities: Look for campgrounds close to stores and restaurants. A visitor at Keystone State Park appreciated the nearby Walmart and eateries.
Camping near Checotah, Oklahoma, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With beautiful parks and friendly communities, it’s a great spot for your next outdoor getaway!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Checotah, OK?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Checotah, OK is Eagles Point — Tenkiller State Park with a 4.3-star rating from 3 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Checotah, OK?
TheDyrt.com has all 20 tent camping locations near Checotah, OK, with real photos and reviews from campers.