Campsites near Gore, Oklahoma cluster around Lake Tenkiller and the Arkansas River at an elevation of approximately 600 feet. The region transitions between humid subtropical and continental climate zones, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Campgrounds in the area typically operate from March through October, with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to Do
Hiking trails: Greenleaf State Park Campground offers well-maintained trails with marked pathways for all skill levels. "The trails at greenleaf are well maintained and marked. Their primitive camping is accessible and well kept. I enjoy the size of the park it is small and offers a lot of room for exploring," notes Cody L., who recommends bringing high-top boots after rainfall.
Water recreation: Snake Creek provides multiple boat ramps and swimming areas on Lake Tenkiller. "Located in the foothills of the Ozarks in eastern Oklahoma on crystal clear Tenkiller Lake, a COE project from the mid 1950's on the Illinois River," explains Bran P., highlighting the clean water quality. The park includes designated swim areas and fishing docks.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "Animals! Turtles, deer that like to be petted, frogs croaking at night, owls talking, beavers splashing in the lake and turkeys eating snakes!" reports Julie O. about her experiences at Greenleaf State Park. Early mornings and evenings provide optimal wildlife viewing times.
Basketball and outdoor sports: Summers Ferry Park includes basketball facilities alongside river access. "Pets allowed, picnic tables, basketball goal, ADA porta pot, water, boat ramp (steep), patrolled by police nightly," lists reviewer N I. The park sits just before the town of Gore with grassy areas for recreational activities.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Webbers Falls City Park maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. "This small city park in a small Oklahoma town was a pleasant surprise. Had water and electric if desired or dry camping. Near the Arkansas river. Locals that drive thru the park were very friendly," reports Debbie W., who paid just $10 per night.
Waterfront access: Strayhorn Landing offers direct lake frontage with practical amenities. "Strayhorn Landing is well maintained and very neatly kept. The fishing is easy and there are plenty of facilities for 'needed activities'," notes Jordan S. The campground includes electric hookups and water access points.
Kid-friendly features: Bluff View — Tenkiller State Park provides natural play spaces with large rock formations. "This was a great spot for two families and lots of kids! The boys had so much fun climbing the giant rocks. We were lucky to have the place to ourselves in November," shares Mara Y., though noting sites are somewhat close together when busy.
Affordable rates: Senior discounts reduce camping costs at multiple locations. "As a Senior, my fee was $13 per night," mentions Jerry E. about Webbers Falls City Park, which offers electric service, potable water, BBQ grills, and picnic tables at a reasonable price point.
What You Should Know
Weather preparation: Summer heat persists well into evening hours. "We were here at the end of May and it was quite warm (~80 degrees once the sun went down) so come prepared," advises Kelsey L. about camping at Bluff View. Most campgrounds lack air conditioning in public facilities.
Site spacing concerns: Marval Camping Resort receives mixed reviews regarding site proximity. "The sites are close together, it was beyond crowded (my son couldn't even ride his bike because of the constant amount of cars) and not much to do," explains Brittany J., though noting the playground facilities were nice.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "The Men's shower/restroom was good, the Woman's on the other hand had a door problem where stalls would not lock, and the outer door would blow open," reports John G. about Fox Squirrel, creating comfort issues for some campers.
Seasonal closures: Some facilities close during winter months. "The sign on the bathroom said it was closed for the season," notes Adams regarding Webbers Falls City Park, indicating reduced services outside peak season.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities: Splash pads provide additional recreation beyond lake swimming. "The absolute best part of this park is the splash pad. It was the best splash pad we've been to. They had a cool slide and we had a blast," shares Richard about Greenleaf State Park, which combines water play with traditional camping.
Insect management: Fire ants present challenges at certain campsites. "The fire ants are a severe problem. The ants prevent us from playing in our campground area and the kids have to play in the street or gravel," warns Jenny about Snake Creek, suggesting preparing with appropriate repellents and treatments.
Off-season benefits: Consider shoulder season visits for reduced crowds. "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," recommends ShaneB about Greenleaf State Park, noting fall colors attract crowds despite beautiful conditions.
Tips from RVers
Hookup preparation: Fox Squirrel — Tenkiller State Park requires proper electrical adapters. "This was our first time at a TT30 spot and found our adapter did not work. A 50 amp spot was open and they were great to move us to one," reports John G., who successfully used a Tesla Model Y in camp mode during their stay.
Water connection length: Bring extra hoses for some campgrounds. "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," advises Kassi S. about Greenleaf State Park's Cypress Row campground.
Level sites: Gravel and concrete pads provide stable foundations at select locations. "Nice gravel and concrete pads. Areas for the dogs some pads and a common area for dogs," notes Tom S. about Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA, which offers full hookups with friendly staff.
