Campsites near Daisy, Oklahoma offer both primitive and developed camping options in the heavily forested Kiamichi Mountains region. The area sits within southeastern Oklahoma's rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 400 to 2,600 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with occasional ice storms, while summer daytime highs regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity levels.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: McGee Creek State Park features multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels. One camper shared, "On the other side of the lake (about a 25-30 minute drive) is the natural scenic recreation area. There are a ton of hiking trails that lead to backpacking campsites, equestrian camps and there are boat in sites as well."
Fishing opportunities: The lakes and rivers throughout the area provide excellent fishing conditions. At McGee Creek State Park, visitors appreciate the fishing amenities. "McGee Creek is a great park if you enjoy camping and fishing with plenty of opportunity to do so both from the shore line and a boat," notes one reviewer.
Off-road vehicle trails: K River Campground offers extensive ATV trail systems. A visitor explained, "Right next to the river for kayaking, canoeing or relaxing. Off-road vehicle trails a petting zoo on site. Check the web site for activities, there may be live music or a large gathering scheduled."
Historical exploration: Robbers Cave State Park contains historic hideouts used by infamous outlaws. "Lots of history at Robbers Cave State Park! Belle Starr famous Lady Outlaw! Jesse James Gang! Beautiful lakes and numerous hiking trails!" commented an enthusiastic visitor.
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Tent campers particularly appreciate the more remote sites available. One camper at Robbers Cave State Park shared, "We camped at tent hill #3. The thing we really liked about this particular site was that there are only 4 tent sites here, so it's secluded and nice and quiet."
Dark skies for stargazing: Limited light pollution creates excellent star-viewing conditions. "This place is really dark at night and some campsites are very private. You can see so many stars," noted a McGee Creek camper. Another visitor to Clayton Lake State Park mentioned, "If you love getting the full effect of beautiful sunrises, sunsets, and stars - this may be the perfect spot for you to watch the skies!"
Family-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer facilities specifically for children. One camper at Clayton Lake State Park noted, "Also had an old school playground but the kids had fun. We took a hike around part of the lake but the trail was pretty much unmarked."
Waterfront camping: Many sites offer direct water access. "We had a site far from anyone else and had a lakeside camp spot. This made our site feel huge," shared a visitor to McGee Creek State Park.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Temperature variations can affect camping comfort significantly. "We camped at McGee Creek State Park over Memorial Day weekend... What we didn't like is that there is only a pit toilet and no water faucets. There is a real bathroom with a shower about a 10-15 minute walk away."
Campground amenities vary widely: Facilities differ considerably between campgrounds and even within different camping areas. A visitor to Sardis Cove explained, "We enjoyed our stay. Beautiful views. 12$ a night for primitive."
Trail markings can be inconsistent: Be prepared with maps as trail markers may be limited. One camper noted, "Generally when in Oklahoma I prepare for the worst to avoid a negative experience, and it works well for me. Horses do access some of the trails so horse flies are prevalent in those areas, I recommend bug spray."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have spotty or non-existent mobile coverage. Prepare for limited connectivity, especially in more remote camping areas like McGee Creek's Tent Hill area.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Some areas offer dedicated play facilities. A visitor to Robbers Cave State Park mentioned, "There is a pool with two water slides and a splash zone, it is $5 dollars to enter for the entire day. My son also got to play miniature for the first time at the course located next to the pool."
Look for ranger programs: Several parks offer educational activities for children. "The Oklahoma Park staff were very knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to answer any of my questions. Also when you get to camp they will give you a schedule of all the events that are going on throughout the week you are staying."
Consider cabin options: For families not ready for tent camping, multiple parks offer cabin rentals. One visitor noted, "The state Park also have 8 camping huts that are air condition and heated that have a fireplace, screened in porch that you can relax and look out over the lake."
Plan for swimming areas: Lakes with designated swimming beaches provide safer water recreation. "There is a grill and a table at you campsite. The campsites are gravel and have tins of ants... Just a warning. When the sun comes up there is a silver glow on the water beautifull. There is also a beach area."
Tips from RVers
Check site details before booking: RV site specifications vary greatly between campgrounds. A visitor to Lane RV Park shared, "Lane RV is a very clean and quiet RV and Tiny Home Park. Conveniently located between McGee Creek State Park and Reba's in Downtown Atoka!"
Consider full hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer complete RV services. "Full hook-ups. It's located in town, so there is quick and easy access to provisions if you need anything," noted a visitor to Antlers RV Park.
Research campground layout: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "Lots of tall trees plus some open areas. Trees will not block canopies or pull outs! Very helpful staff! Has 30 and 50 amp. Along side a river also plus they have cabins," shared a K River Campground visitor.
Be aware of permanent residents: Some RV parks primarily serve long-term campers. "We stayed at this park with two other couples while we were in town for the Pine Mountain atv trails. This park appears to be more of a full-timer park rather than a 'campground' park, but it worked out well for us for the weekend."
