Arcadia Lake offers multiple recreation areas within 30 minutes of Choctaw, Oklahoma. Located in central Oklahoma with elevations around 1,000-1,200 feet, the region experiences hot summers and mild winters. Camping options range from primitive tent sites to full hookup RV spots, with most campgrounds open year-round despite occasional seasonal closures due to weather conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Arcadia Lake features numerous fishing spots with bass being particularly popular. At Shawnee Twin Lakes, James D. reports, "Great bass fishing here! The dams were cool to see. It was easy to walk in and get a permit for camping and fishing. Friendly staff."
Swimming beaches: Several designated swimming areas provide summer recreation. At Bell Cow Lake Campground C, Danielle C. notes, "The lake is filled with red clay. My mom and I harvested some and made little figures and baked them in the sun. We had so much fun."
Hiking trails: Bell Cow Lake offers extensive trail systems for both hikers and equestrians. Leslie N. shares, "Hiked down one and the trail was very peaceful and beautiful. It had recently rained a lot, so I had a thick layer of red mud on my shoes from the hike, but glad I hiked it."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds feature natural habitats where visitors can observe local wildlife. The camping options near Choctaw include settings from lakeside to wooded areas with varying levels of privacy between campsites.
What campers like
Affordable rates: Compared to other camping destinations, sites near Choctaw offer budget-friendly options. Jon B. from Bell Cow Lake Campground C notes, "Bell Cow lake may become one of our go-to places as it is still within an easy drive from OKC and half the price of the next closest lake to camp at (Lake Arcadia). Tent camping is $10 a night, RV is $20."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept grounds and amenities. Lisa P. from Shawnee Twin Lakes mentions, "Beautiful sunset views and nice, spacious, clean campsites all with fire pits with attached grill! The price per site/night allows for two tents on one site!"
Proximity to Oklahoma City: For those seeking glamping close to Choctaw, Oklahoma, the nearby camping options provide easy access to urban amenities while enjoying nature. Angela H. from Arcadia Lake states, "We have taken our family to Arcadia many times to camp. While it's close to the city, it feels far away. Lake activities and hiking are available."
Diverse camping styles: From luxury camping near Choctaw to primitive options, the area accommodates various preferences. Madison P. notes about Arcadia Lake, "Great campsite! Picnic tables and fire pits. Walking distance to the beautiful lake. Fairly private site lots of trees between each. Plenty of sites to choose from water front or in the woods."
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Summer brings higher temperatures and more insects. Leslie N. from Bell Cow Lake warns, "There were plenty of flies due to the time of year and the presence of horses, so a good fly swatter and a fly trap is recommended."
Varied bathroom conditions: Facility maintenance differs between campgrounds and seasons. Rachel S. notes about Bell Cow Lake, "Bathrooms were kind of gross but I expect that's due to visiting in a shoulder season."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds from nearby roads. Jon B. mentions, "One of the only things we did not like was with the campsite being 2 miles from I-44 you could hear the highway traffic all night."
Firewood availability: Not all campgrounds provide firewood for purchase. Jon B. from Bell Cow Lake observes, "There was not fire wood available to gather or purchase (perhaps in town) so though it is generally frowned upon to bring your own you won't have a fire otherwise."
Water conditions: Lakes in the area often have distinctive characteristics. Julie H. from Shawnee Twin Lakes notes, "The swimming areas were nice and it was perfect for our boat!!" while others mention the red clay composition of some lakes.
Tips for camping with families
Check playground availability: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. James D. notes about Shawnee Twin Lakes, "There is a playground and picnic pavilion which would be good for families."
Consider lake safety: Some lakes have underwater obstacles. Leslie N. from Bell Cow Lake cautions, "Lake is calm & shallow, so it is best for small boats and kayaks."
Pack for varied terrain: Shorelines can have different compositions. Danielle C. from Bell Cow Lake advises, "For anyone planning to camp, make sure u bring slip on shoes. U can go barefoot, we did. But the sand which is great at first... left our feet raw."
Look for spacious sites: Certain campgrounds offer roomier accommodations for families. Lisa P. mentions that at Shawnee Twin Lakes, "Concrete picnic tables at every site make it nice for large groups and for board games."
Unique glamping experiences: For families seeking luxury camping near Choctaw, Oklahoma, specialized sites like Lazy H Alpaca Ranch provide memorable stays. Patty S. shares, "We got to pet the Alpacas and the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete amenities for RVs. At Rockwell RV Park, Elizabeth S. notes, "Very big rig and dog friendly, lots of grass, open areas and picnic tables. They are well lit, have a tornado shelter and are near a multitude of stores and restaurants."
Site spacing considerations: RV parks vary in how closely units are positioned. Jessica E. observes about Rockwell RV Park, "It is much like a big parking lot and the spaces are very close but level. The staff is friendly and helpful. Quiet."
Amenities for extended stays: Some RV parks provide extra features for longer visits. Bret N. shares about Rockwell RV Park, "They have a decent indoor pool, buffalo in an enclosure, and laundry facilities. They have a church service on Sundays, and they bake muffins each morning that are free for guests."
Access considerations: Check road conditions and site configurations before arrival. Fabein D. notes about Rockwell RV Park, "Easy access, pull through sites. All gravel lots and friendly staff. Decent shade with full hookups. Perfect for passing through or exploring Oklahoma City."
