Camping near Fort Gibson, Oklahoma centers around Fort Gibson Lake with its 225 miles of shoreline and diverse terrain spanning forested hillsides and limestone bluffs. Several campgrounds offer electric hookups with both 30 and 50 amp service, while primitive camping sites provide closer access to the water's edge. Winter camping remains available at select locations, with temperatures typically ranging from 30°F to 50°F between December and February.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Natural Falls State Park Campground features an 18-hole disc golf course spread throughout the wooded areas. As Richard shared, "There are 4.5 miles of great hiking trails at the park. You can find some great hidden spots along the river and enjoy the quiet."
Kayaking and canoeing: Wahoo Bay offers excellent water access for paddlers. "This was our first stay in Oklahoma camping. I highly recommend staying at this location or the location across Fort Gibson Lake (Johnson Bay). The campsites are very spacious and most if not all of them overlook the lake," reports UnnamedAdventures.
Horseback riding: Fort Gibson area parks often offer seasonal riding opportunities. As Tom K. noted in his review of Greenleaf State Park Campground, "I enjoy the golf course and the horse back riding. The park is dated but it is a fun place to spend the weekend."
Waterfall viewing: Several parks feature scenic water features. According to one visitor at Natural Falls State Park, "The hike to the bottom is fairly steep but there is a sidewalk that takes you to an overlook at the top" to view the 77-foot waterfall.
What campers like
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, Chicken Creek provides alternative accommodations. Justin A. mentions, "We've stayed here multiple times and love it. Beautiful place. Some sites are a little tricky backing into with 29' trailer though."
Off-season tranquility: Many Fort Gibson area campgrounds offer a different experience during quieter months. ShaneB recommends, "If you dig the crowds and the splash park scene and the loud music... hit it in the summer. But if you like it quiet and peaceful check it out in the winter or early spring."
Fishing access: Multiple lakeside locations provide direct water access. Chad K. noted about Wahoo Bay, "Sequoyah Bay is on the west side of Fort Gibson lake, not far from Wagner. The campsites are space out for privacy and close to the lake. The Corp maintains this campground well."
Waterfront sites: Sites with views are highly valued. "We had a great spot located 200 yards from the lake. Also had the boat dock just on the other side of us," wrote Ashley T. about her stay at Chicken Creek.
What you should know
Shower facilities vary widely: Not all campgrounds offer the same amenities. Phil W. cautioned about one area at Sequoyah State Park - Marina and Cabins: "However, the showers will cost you, so bring quarters. Plus, the ones we saw looked like they had black mold all around. Needless to say, we did not use the showers."
Site spacing and privacy: Some campgrounds place units very close together. A review from Marval Camping Resort noted, "The sites are close together, it was beyond crowded (my son couldn't even ride his bike because of the constant amount of cars)."
Seasonal flooding: Water levels can affect camping areas. At Greenleaf State Park, a camper observed, "When we had a 'monsoon' the night after the start of the race that entire area was flooded."
Limited winter services: While year-round camping is available, some facilities close. Tim O. from Wahoo Bay reported in January: "Vault toilet is clean and water spigots are available and turned on. $10/night."
Tips for camping with families
Look for splash pads: Flat Rock Creek and other campgrounds feature water play areas. Richard mentioned about Greenleaf State Park: "The absolute best part of this park is the splash pad. It was the best splash pad we've been too. They had a cool slide and we had a blast."
Halloween activities: Several campgrounds offer special fall events. Jenny noted, "In October, they do trick or treating every weekend - which is fun!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple parks provide chances to see local animals. According to Julie O., families can expect to see "Turtles, deer that like to be petted, frogs croaking at night, owls talking, beavers splashing in the lake and turkeys eating snakes!"
Reserve well ahead for holiday weekends: Popular Fort Gibson yurt camping and cabin sites book quickly. Leni K. advised, "We were the only tent visitors until our last night when two additional campers arrived. Spots were mostly crowded, would not come to this site in a peak season."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At Marval Camping Resort, one RVer reported: "Personnel very friendly but site not worth the cost asked for pull thru got back in on grass and dirt open pull thrus had concrete pads not happy."
Water hookup planning: Some sites require extra preparation. Kassi S. noted about Greenleaf State Park: "The only disadvantage to this park is some sites share water. In our site we needed 50 ft of water hose and I would suggest bringing a 'y' water connector."
Limited full hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer complete services. Mark J. explained about Chicken Creek: "Only seven 50 amp spots and no sewer sites but the campground is great. Store outside gate. Gates going in locked at 10:00 p.m. and open at 6:00 a.m."
Winter camping water access: For those using RVs during colder months, Tim O. confirmed at Wahoo Bay: "12 miles/20 minutes to town for gas, groceries, laundry, etc. Minimal traffic mid-January, mostly boats and fishermen."