Northeastern Oklahoma offers glamping and camping options nestled among rolling hills, lakes, and wooded terrain 15 to 50 miles from Cleveland. The region features multiple Corps of Engineers campgrounds on lakes like Keystone, Skiatook, and Kaw, with elevations ranging from 700 to 900 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-90s with high humidity while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions in the 60s and 70s.
What to do
Fishing from dedicated docks: Hawthorn Bluff offers fishing opportunities on Oologah Lake with both shoreline access and dedicated docks. "The fishing dock was very spacious and secure for us and the grandkids," notes Ron K., who enjoyed the accessibility despite some site limitations.
Explore CCC history: Osage Hills State Park contains historic structures built during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. "What I really liked was that most of the park was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Depression and New Deal eras. Many of the buildings were still in use including shelters and cabins," writes Annie C., who recommends hiking to the old CCC camp to explore historical remains.
Swimming in small lakes: During summer months, several campgrounds offer swimming options beyond the larger lakes. "There is a nice overlook in the tent loop to watch the sun rise over the valley. The bathhouse was clean and had electric," explains Annie C. about tent camping facilities at Osage Hills State Park.
What campers like
Lakeside tent sites: Bull Creek Peninsula on Skiatook Lake offers dramatic tent camping locations on bluffs. "We stayed at site 31. It was on the side with the bluffs. Beautiful sunset overlooking the lake. Trees separated us from the next campsites," writes David H., who appreciated the primitive nature of the campground.
Clean vault toilets: Many campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept basic facilities. "Clean vault toilet. No water available anywhere though, which lowered my review to 4. No electric or dump station, so come prepared," notes Karen T. about Bull Creek Peninsula, highlighting both limitations and cleanliness of facilities.
Shade coverage: Sarge Creek Campground offers tree cover that creates comfortable camping conditions even in summer heat. "Clean campsite. Fire pit had recently been cleaned out. Nice little path down to the water from this spot," reports Jim H., who found the site well-maintained with good water access.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the Cleveland area operate from April through October, with limited off-season facilities. "Office hours were terribly short - open 8:00-4:30, although no one was around as late as 8:30 in the morning," notes Annie C. about Osage Hills State Park's administrative limitations.
Site levelness varies: Many lakeside sites present challenges for RV leveling. "The site was slanted so much that we could not get level front to back. We moved a couple of times and tried all combination of stacking lumber under the tongue jack but still had to sleep with our heads at the foot end of our bed," explains Ron K. about site #31 at Hawthorn Bluff.
Limited water hookups: Some campgrounds require extra-long hoses or filling tanks upon arrival. "We had to buy a 75' hose to put water in our fresh tank. Not a huge deal," mentions Ron K., highlighting common infrastructure limitations at some sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Bell Cow Lake Campground offers play areas but consider distance from campsites. "There is a playground at the bottom of the hill. It's a bit of a trek back up," notes Richard, suggesting families choose sites strategically based on children's ages and mobility.
Water activities beyond swimming: Look for multiple water options at each location. "My husband did not catch anything when fishing, but he had fun. The lake is filled with red clay. My mom and I harvested some and made little figures and baked them in the sun," shares Danielle C., highlighting creative activities beyond typical water recreation.
Consider shoulder seasons: Spring and fall offer more comfortable temperatures and fewer insects. "Bathrooms were kind of gross but I expect that's due to visiting in a shoulder season," writes Rachel S. about Bell Cow Lake in April, noting both the benefits (quiet, peaceful) and drawbacks of off-peak visits.
Tips from RVers
Storm shelter access: Cedar Crest RV Park near Stillwater provides important severe weather protection. "Safe Storm Shelter" is listed among the amenities Julie H. highlights at this well-maintained facility, an important consideration in tornado-prone Oklahoma.
Weekend capacity concerns: Most campgrounds near Cleveland fill quickly on weekends, especially during summer. "We decided to do a last minute camp out. After finding out all of the RV and tent camping areas around OKC were at capacity we gave Bell Cow Lake a shot," explains Jon B., who found Bell Cow Lake had availability when other options were full.
Site selection for privacy: Choose end sites or those with natural separations when possible. "We were in site #31 with is right across from the fishing dock and close to a potable water source. The Campground is very shaded and the spot was large and easy to back in to with our 33' TT," shares Ron K. about selecting advantageous sites at Hawthorn Bluff.
