Glamping in Gore, Oklahoma centers around the Illinois River and Lake Tenkiller, where the landscape features limestone bluffs rising 250-300 feet above the water. The area's climate remains mild year-round with average summer temperatures in the mid-80s F, but campsites at higher elevations can experience stronger winds. Most campgrounds operate March through November, with reduced amenities during winter months.
What to do
Fishing docks year-round: Greenleaf State Park Campground maintains heated fishing docks accessible throughout winter. "The fishing form the dock is fruitful. From a boat even better," notes ShaneB, who appreciates that the park's location makes it "a great escape not far from Tulsa."
Miniature golf and recreation: While some courses need maintenance, families enjoy the variety of activities. "We had a blast tent camping here on Labor Day Weekend. Beautiful park with grassy tent sites. Nice hiking trail... There is a mini golf course too," shares Richard, who particularly enjoyed the splash pad at Greenleaf.
Wildlife observation: The natural setting attracts diverse wildlife year-round. "Animals! Turtles, deer that like to be petted, frogs croaking at night, owls talking, beavers splashing in the lake and turkeys eating snakes!" exclaims Julie O. at Greenleaf State Park, highlighting the unexpected wildlife encounters possible.
Scuba diving Lake Tenkiller: Chicken Creek provides access to Lake Tenkiller's clear waters where divers can explore underwater structures. "Lake Tenkiller is an amazing location to scuba dive. Its waters are clear and cool from a distance of 8 to 28 feet. A diver will have the opportunity to investigate a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter and two boats," explains N I.
What campers like
Off-season tranquility: Brooken Cove Campground offers quieter experiences outside peak times. "We stayed here for only one night but will definitely be back. Nice campsites with room between sites. Most sites have lake views and there is alit of access to the lake," reports Angela, who appreciated the lake views and spacing between sites.
Waterfront camping: Many sites offer direct water access. "We had a great spot located 200 yards from the lake. Also had the boat dock just on the other side of us. Great place to stay, friendly staff! Had a picnic table, grill and a covered area to sit at as well," shares Ashley T. about her stay at Chicken Creek.
Affordable options: Wahoo Bay offers budget-friendly stays. "I can see the stars and the moon while hearing deer run through the woods, birds splashing in the water and coyotes howling. 12 miles/20 minutes to town for gas, groceries, laundry, etc. Minimal traffic mid-January, mostly boats and fishermen. Vault toilet is clean and water spigots are available and turned on. $10/night," reports Tim O.
Seasonal events: Halloween weekends offer special activities for families. "This park offers full hookup sites and has many hiking trails. In October, they do trick or treating every weekend - which is fun!" mentions Jenny about Sequoyah State Park.
What you should know
Water levels affect campsites: Seasonal flooding can impact camping areas. "When we visited it had recently flooded and the trails were covered. It is a decent family park with several different areas to camp," explains Tom K. about Sequoyah State Park, noting that despite this, the park offered enough alternatives.
Limited reservations at some locations: First-come, first-served policies exist at several campgrounds. "Peak Season April 01 to September 30. First-come, First-served October 01 to November 30," notes N I. about Chicken Creek's reservation policy.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Quality ranges significantly between campgrounds. "The bathroom doubles as shower, clean, up kept," reports Shawn K. about Brooken Cove, while others like Michelle W. found facilities at Brewers Bend less appealing: "Beautiful peaceful place, but the shared bathroom was gross!"
Quiet hours and gate closures: Some parks enforce strict schedules. "Check-out time: 3:00 pm. Check-in time: 6:00 pm. Quiet hours: 10:00 pm-6:00 am. Entrance gate will be closed during this time," explains N I. about Chicken Creek's operations.
Tips for camping with families
Primitive options with amenities: Basic sites often include unexpected comforts. "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. Never experienced a large crowd here..which is preferable for me," shares Cody L. about Greenleaf State Park.
Splash pad alternatives: Water recreation beyond lakes attracts families. "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," enthuses Richard about Greenleaf's facilities.
Winter camping preparation: Marval Camping Resort offers year-round glamping with adequate amenities for colder months. "This place has everything, movie theater, horse riding, a train that goes around the park, golf carts, tons of activities for the entire family... Swimming pool and all... We go every chance we get, my kids love it," reports Candy U.
Avoid holiday crowds: Popular weekends can affect experience quality. "We really wanted to like this place. Everyone raves about it. The sites are close together, it was beyond crowded (my son couldn't even ride his bike because of the constant amount of cars)," warns Brittany J. about Marval Resort during a busy period.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. "Our campsite, #33, was perched on top of a hill, accessible by a fairly long, steep incline. The site is not level and would be appropriate only for shorter RVs," cautions Jeanette W. about Gentry Creek Landing.
Hookup variations: Electric options differ between campgrounds. "Only seven 50 amp spots and no sewer sites but the campground is great," advises Mark J. about Chicken Creek, highlighting the importance of checking specific hookup availability.
Extended-stay options: Some sites allow longer stays without charge. "You can stay up to 14 days for free at this location," notes UnnamedAdventures about Wahoo Bay, making it ideal for RVers on extended trips.
Water access considerations: Many share water hookups between sites. "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, highlighting practical equipment needs for RVers.