Copan Lake offers several camping options within a 15-mile radius of Copan, Oklahoma. The region sits at approximately 700 feet elevation with warm summers reaching 90°F and mild winters. Camping areas around Copan Lake feature predominantly oak and hickory forest with limestone outcroppings characteristic of northeastern Oklahoma's terrain.
What to do
Hiking trails: Osage Hills State Park provides several miles of hiking paths with varying difficulty levels. "The park has easily-accessible lakes and creeks, hiking trails (easy-to-moderate in difficulty for the average, able adult), mountain biking trails, and scenic overlooks," notes reviewer Wil B. about Osage Hills State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Rent canoes at Lookout Lake for fishing or paddling. "There is a small private lake with kayaks (Lookout Lake), many hiking trails, a swimming pool, and playground. We saw white tail deer, armadillo, & wild Turkey," shares Pamela B. at Osage Hills.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings at Wah-Sha-She Park offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "We went jugging in our canoe and caught some really good size blue cats... never ending gorgeous evenings spent by the campfire watching the sunset," writes Brittany G. who camped there with her dogs.
Seasonal swimming: Several campgrounds offer swimming options during summer months. "A lake with canoe/kayaks for rent and complementary life jackets for use, a river, and many hiking trails. An r.v., campground, tent camping scattered throughout, two playgrounds, a seasonal pool," details Dana H. about recreation options.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Washington Cove provides roomy sites with lake access. "We had a site on the water and it was wonderful!!! Beautiful campground. Lots of trees for shade during the day. Power at most sites," shares Cari W. who appreciated the lake views.
Camp hosts: Helpful staff enhance the camping experience at several locations. "Park ranger Justin Barnes was a great help with our after hours check in. He even came by the site we picked to make sure it was up to our standards and to check if the electric was working correctly," mentions Julie R. about Washington Cove.
Historical features: CCC-built structures add interest at Osage Hills. "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," notes Annie C.
Fishing access: Multiple locations offer shoreline and boat fishing opportunities. "We went jugging in our canoe and caught some really good size blue cats," reports Brittany G. at Wah-Sha-She Park, where catfish are plentiful.
What you should know
Water spigot locations: Washington Cove has an unusual water setup. "The water situation is a little weird. Spigots are shared and not very convenient on many sites. (Hoses going through other peoples sites)," explains Cari W., though she felt the $22/night rate made this inconvenience acceptable.
Campsite conditions: Some areas need maintenance attention. "The campsite was clean, but the area around it was a little over grown. Fallen trees, tall grass, broken dock," reports Kaimron S. about Post Oak Park.
Shower facilities: Bathroom amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. "The bathhouse was clean and had electric. There were two shower stalls, but no doors or curtains, so best not be modest," Annie C. mentions about Osage Hills State Park.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "The park is on the smaller side and reservations are a must," advises Tom K. about Osage Hills State Park, particularly if planning a weekend visit.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Riverside RV Park in Bartlesville offers dedicated pet and play areas. "There's a paved walking trail right next to the campground that is well maintained and leads to the campgrounds dog park. Dog park is clean and spacious," notes Mary N., who stayed for a month.
Wildlife education: Rangers often provide educational opportunities. "Later on while the kids were fishing he stopped by to explain the different type of fish and wildlife to them," Julie R. writes about a Washington Cove ranger interaction that enhanced her family's experience.
Swimming options: Check for safe water play areas. "There is a shallow area with a few small 'rapids' where kids can play and explore. All in all, a really excellent campground. We plan on this being the campground we take our friends with kids to," suggests Dusty G. about Osage Hills.
Safety considerations: Be aware of local wildlife. "We have seen water snakes in this park so be careful when swimming. We can't tell them apart so we steer clear," warns Tom K. from his experiences at Osage Hills State Park.
Tips from RVers
Budget-friendly options: The Woods Campground in nearby Coffeyville, Kansas offers economical sites. "Nice quick in and out overnight stop or longer if needed. Big rig friendly large pull though sites and smaller back in sites with 30 and 50 amp and water no sewer but dump station is close by. Self service campground $8.00 a night," explains Jake M.
Water pressure warning: Bring necessary equipment at some locations. "NOTE: BRING A WATER PRESSURE REGULATOR. Their pressure is about 90 psi," advises Dennis P. about Riverside RV Park, which otherwise offers "all the amenities one could ask for."
Location considerations: Some campgrounds offer unexpected bonuses. "Centrally located, quick drives to Osage Hills State Park, Woolaroc, Tulsa, Pioneer Woman Mercantile. Close to Oklahoma Wesleyan University. In Bartlesville, OK but on the Caney River and 100% felt like a hideaway," reports JJ V. about Riverside RV Park.
Electric hookup options: Washington Cove provides power at most sites, but verify specifics when booking. "Power at most sites. The water situation is a little weird. Spigots are shared and not very convenient on many sites," notes Cari W.
