Dispersed camping sites near Coleman, Oklahoma offer primitive experiences where visitors can access natural water features. During summer months, temperatures average 92-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder conditions in the 70-85°F range. The area sits at approximately 700 feet elevation with terrain characterized by rolling hills, mixed hardwood forests, and prominent water features including rivers and lake access points.
What to do
Explore riverside terrain: At Blue River Camp, visitors can investigate the natural rock formations along the water's edge. One camper shared their experience: "Gorgeous," noting the simple beauty of the riverside setting. The camp offers multiple spots for climbing on boulders and exploring shallow areas of the river.
Hiking opportunities: Eagle's Roost Campsite provides access to the Cross Timber's Trail, which one visitor described as "technical for the region and is a 14 mile point to point trail along the shore of Lake Texoma." The trail system allows campers to experience the lake from various vantage points while getting exercise.
Swimming spots: Natural swimming holes form throughout the Blue River area, particularly during spring and summer. The Hughes Crossing area creates ideal swimming conditions, with one visitor noting there's "a really neat little spot south of the dam with a rope swing." Water levels fluctuate seasonally, so spring visits often provide the best swimming opportunities.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: 5 Mile Camp Primitive Dispersed Camping provides isolation along Lake Texoma. A camper noted, "Good spot. I stayed in my hammock and buddy in his tent back in Nov 2019. Stopped just before a cold front with rain hit and built a fire." This rustic camping area near Coleman provides opportunities for both hammock and tent setups.
Wildlife viewing: The wooded areas around Eagle's Roost Campsite offer excellent bird watching. According to one visitor, "Birds flock over and it's far enough away from the freeway that it's quiet (with the exception of the occasional fishing boat)." Morning hours provide the best opportunities for wildlife observation.
Uncrowded weekday camping: Blue River Camp experiences significant visitor fluctuations between weekdays and weekends. One camper noted the difference in their experience: "We went on a Tuesday so there wasn't any one else there. We did some awesome exploring up and down the river." Midweek visits from April through October generally offer more solitude.
What you should know
License requirements: A hunting/fishing license or conservation passport is mandatory for Blue River Camp. One recent visitor clarified the current situation: "The passport is for any activity on the grounds, excluding hunting or fishing and they are $51 currently." These passes must be obtained before arrival as there is no on-site purchase option.
Navigation challenges: Finding some dispersed camping areas requires careful planning. For 5 Mile Camp, one visitor warned: "The coordinates bring you to what looks like a driveway that has signs for no trespassing and beware of dogs." Alternative access points may be necessary for certain primitive camping areas.
Site maintenance: Primitive camping areas have minimal management oversight. One Blue River Camp visitor observed: "The only downside was the amount of trash that people had left." Bringing extra trash bags to pack out waste is strongly recommended for all rustic camping near Coleman.
Tips for camping with families
Flat campsite selection: Blue River Camp offers numerous level sites suitable for family camping. One visitor observed: "There was so many campsites and they were all well maintained and flat." Sites closest to parking areas provide easier access for families with young children.
Water safety precautions: The Blue River contains variable water depths and currents that change seasonally. A visitor described the water as "amazing and clean" but noted "a bit of green algae," indicating the need for water shoes and supervision for children.
Trail difficulty considerations: When planning hikes with children on the Cross Timbers Trail, note that it's described by experienced hikers as "more technical than most in the vicinity." Cross Timbers Trail sections closest to established access points offer shorter, more manageable hikes for families.
Tips from RVers
Access road conditions: RV access to Blue River Camp requires navigating gravel roads that may present challenges. One camper mentioned: "If I had a been brave enough to drive my little Mustang down the gravel path... I would have found waterfront campsites." Larger RVs should exercise caution, particularly after rainfall.
Site selection for larger vehicles: While Blue River Camp is marked as big-rig friendly, larger RVs should arrive early to secure suitable spots. Most favorable RV sites are located in the main camping area rather than along the more primitive riverside spots.
Limited amenities: RVers should note that rustic camping areas provide minimal facilities. One visitor to Blue River Camp described finding only "a building with bathrooms and three large dumpsters off to the side" at the entrance area, indicating the need for complete self-sufficiency.
