Claremore campgrounds offer easy access to Oologah Lake with its 12,900 surface acres and 209 miles of shoreline. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 600-700 feet above sea level, creating moderate terrain with occasional sloping sites that can be challenging for RV leveling. The area receives around 45 inches of annual rainfall, which contributes to occasionally muddy conditions at campsites during spring and early summer months.
What to do
Hiking and nature trails: Spencer Creek campground provides access to several nature trails with lake views. "There is a play area, trail, soccer field, boat ramp and short walk to beach area. We stayed in site 3 which is a spacious site and short walk to beach," notes one Spencer Creek visitor.
Fishing spots: The Verdigris River area offers productive fishing opportunities directly from the campground. A visitor explains, "This side of the dam is for fishing. Spent many many MANY nights going night fishing with my family growing up and it was always so much fun!" at Verdigris River.
Water activities: Multiple water access points provide opportunities for boating and kayaking. "You can rent all kinds of water crafts even kayaks. There's a island in the middle called goat island that is fun to check out. It's a great little lake for fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking and swimming," according to a visitor at Redbud Bay.
Historical sites: The Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch offers educational opportunities about the famous Oklahoma native. "I grew up in Oologah and frequented the birthplace often. There's lots of animals to pet and lots of history to learn. You can tour the birthplace for free, there's an old barn to explore, you can go hiking, there's horse trails as well."
What campers like
Spacious lakeside sites: Blue Creek campground offers ample space between campsites, particularly in the tent-only section. One camper reported, "Stayed here in mid October-- RV side of campground was full but I was the only person on the tent side. Spot was nice... Bathrooms were well kept and stocked, view of the lake was gorgeous," about their stay at Blue Creek.
Clean facilities: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Claremore maintain clean restrooms and shower facilities. A camper at Hawthorn Bluff noted, "We had a great time camping here! It was beautiful and clean. The bathrooms and showers were always clean and fresh."
Helpful staff: Campground hosts receive positive mentions for their assistance and friendly service. One visitor to Tulsa NE-Will Rogers Downs KOA shared, "Grounds were clean, restrooms and showers were also clean. The check in office was inviting and pleasing. We didn't use the laundry facility while we were there, but they are available should the need arise."
Quiet atmosphere: During weekdays and off-peak seasons, campers appreciate the peaceful environment. "We loved our stay here. Everyone was so kind and respectful. The campground host and his dog were excellent and so helpful! We enjoyed swimming and taking a breather from our roadtrip. Quite peaceful and room to explore!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate with limited services during off-season months. A Hawthorn Bluff camper reported, "Hawthorn Bluff does not charge for camping until April 1st... However, this makes for some very interesting campers... Since they were not charging for campsites during my stay, the showers were locked and not opened as well as another restroom."
Site topography challenges: Some lakeside sites feature significant slopes that can be difficult for tent camping. "Once arriving at the camp site, I discovered that the sites near the lake were very sloped making it a little difficult to find a flat spot to set up a tent."
Accessibility issues: Some campgrounds require preparation for water access. "The only downside is that they don't have water hookups at the sites. You can connect your hose to the nearest spigot but you better hope it's long enough."
Reservation requirements: Most dog-friendly camping near Claremore now requires advance booking. At Bluff Landing, "My friend and I arrived late at night - around ten pm - and even then the camp host came around to kindly make sure we had our reservation, which made us glad to know the place was secure."
Tips for camping with families
Swim beach options: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas with safety features. "The swim beach was well kept and easily accessible with free life jacket loaners. The bathrooms were pretty spotless even though they are primitive style toilets only."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds provide playground equipment for children. "We've been 3 times over the summer because it's so close. There are sites on top of ridge overlooking Oolagah Lake. Site 10 is an accessible site."
Wildlife viewing: The area offers opportunities to observe seasonal bird migrations and other wildlife. "Mid October Oolagah Lake is in the path of Pelicans migrating south. When you camp mid to end of October the lake with be covered with a white layer of pelicans."
Security considerations: Pet-friendly campgrounds near Claremore often have good security measures in place. "Bathrooms were locked and secure and passcode was required to enter. Passcode was provided upon check in," reports a visitor at Tulsa NE-Will Rogers Downs KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling preparation: Bring leveling blocks for RVs at certain campgrounds. "The site did not have a dedicated water hook up. We had to buy a 75' hose to put water in our fresh tank. Not a huge deal. #2 complaint is that the site was slanted so much that we could not get level front to back."
Campground selection: Choose campgrounds based on your specific needs and preferences. "The parking lots are level and the WiFi worked well. However only one shower was working and the two toilets are not enclosed," notes a visitor to Claremore Expo RV Park.
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete RV hookups. "Our site was a pull through level gravel pad with full hookups. The off leash dog park was a small fenced in area with a couple of benches."
Site spacing awareness: RV sites vary considerably in spacing and privacy. "The Rv sites are close together but the whole area is wooded which makes for some great shade."
Traveler
